Photorefractive Keratectomy (PRK)

Photorefractive Keratectomy (PRK) is a powerful and precise laser vision correction procedure that offers an excellent alternative to LASIK. At Florida Eye Custom Vision, we utilize this advanced surface ablation to help patients, especially those with thin corneas, safely reduce or eliminate their dependence on glasses and contact lenses.

What is Photorefractive Keratectomy (PRK) Surgery?

Photorefractive Keratectomy (PRK) is a time-tested, minimally invasive method of reshaping the cornea to correct vision. As the predecessor to LASIK, PRK is a type of advanced surface treatment that does not involve creating a corneal flap. Instead, at Florida Eye Custom Vision, we use a state-of-the-art computerized excimer laser to gently remove the cornea’s thin, outer protective layer (the epithelium) before precisely reshaping the underlying corneal tissue. This reshaping corrects refractive errors like nearsightedness, farsightedness, and astigmatism, helping light to focus correctly on the retina for clear vision.
What is Photorefractive Keratectomy PRK in Jacksonville FL

Is PRK Right for You? Ideal Candidates

While many people are familiar with LASIK, PRK surgery remains the procedure of choice for many patients and is renowned for its exceptional safety profile and excellent results. It is often the ideal option for individuals who may not be candidates for LASIK due to the specific characteristics of their eyes.

PRK is highly recommended for patients with:

  • Thin Corneas: Because no flap is created, more corneal tissue is preserved, making it a safer option for those with thinner-than-average corneas.
  • Slightly Irregular Corneas: The surface ablation approach can sometimes be more suitable for corneas with minor irregularities.
  • High-Impact Professions or Lifestyles: PRK is the required procedure for many military pilots (including Navy pilots), astronauts, and law enforcement officers, as there is no risk of flap-related complications from trauma.

The PRK Procedure: A Step-by-Step Overview

The PRK procedure is quick, precise, and remarkably efficient. The laser portion of PRK typically takes less than a minute per eye, with the overall procedure completed in just a few minutes. The process involves:

  1. Preparation: Your eye is completely numbed with anesthetic drops to ensure you are comfortable.
  2. Surface Removal: The thin, regenerative outer layer of the cornea, the epithelium, is gently removed by the surgeon.
  3. Corneal Reshaping: The advanced excimer laser is used to precisely reshape the cornea, correcting your unique prescription.
  4. Protection: A soft, clear “bandage” contact lens is placed over the cornea to protect it and keep you comfortable while the epithelial layer heals.
Photorefractive Keratectomy offered in Jacksonville FL
Are you a PRK Candidate in Jacksonville FL

What to Expect During PRK Recovery

The initial healing for Photorefractive Keratectomy (PRK) takes place over 3-5 days in most cases. During this time, the bandage contact lens remains on the eye to protect the healing surface. It is normal for the eye to feel slightly bothersome or scratchy, and vision will be somewhat blurry or hazy.

Once the new surface layer has healed, the contact lens is removed in our office. After this point, your vision will begin to sharpen significantly as the cornea continues to smooth and refine. While the initial recovery is longer than with LASIK, many patients find the exceptional long-term results and safety profile to be a worthwhile trade-off.

Proven Results and Outstanding Vision

PRK affords excellent, stable, and lasting results. Clinical studies show that nearly all PRK patients experience improved vision, with the majority achieving 20/40 vision or better (the standard for driving without glasses), and many reaching 20/20 or better. This track record of success is why PRK continues to be a trusted and popular vision correction option around the world.
Laser eye surgery offered in Jacksonville FL

Find Out if PRK is Your Path to Clear Vision

Contact our Jacksonville office today to schedule a comprehensive eye examination and consultation to determine if Photorefractive Keratectomy (PRK) surgery is the best procedure for your unique eyes.
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