Photorefractive Keratectomy (also known as PRK) is a similar procedure to iLASIK for correcting nearsightedness, farsightedness and astigmatism. As in iLASIK, the excimer laser is used to precisely reshape the cornea. In fact, the actual laser correction in PRK is identical to iLASIK. The difference is that with PRK the treatment is applied directly to the outer surface of the cornea without creating a flap. The very thin, protective outer epithelial layer is gently removed first, and grows back over a period of several days. PRK is often a better choice than iLASIK for patients with thinner corneas, or those who have had prior refractive surgery. The visual recovery is slower compared to iLASIK as the surface layer takes several days to heal. Because of this, patients may not be seeing well enough to drive or work for 3-5 days. Once the eyes have completely healed (3-6 months following the treatment) the results are identical to iLASIK. Your eye doctor can discuss with you individually if PRK is a better choice for you than iLASIK.
