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PRK
PRK (photorefractive keratectomy) is an approved laser vision correction treatment for nearsightedness, farsightedness and astigmatism. This is an alternative to LASIK for those who have thin corneas, high prescriptions or certain other eye conditions. PRK is similar to LASIK in that the same type of excimer laser is used to reshape the cornea. However, a corneal flap is not created. Instead, the laser beam is applied directly to the surface of the eye to reshape the cornea.
PRK takes only minutes per eye. Unlike LASIK, the surgeon does not create a corneal flap. Instead, the surgeon removes the epithelium, or top layer of corneal cells, and applies the Excimer Star S4 IR laser to reshape the cornea. After the precise laser reshaping of the cornea, the surgeon places a soft contact lens on the eye to aid the healing process.
The lenses will be removed by your surgeon after approximately five days. Some patients experience a scratchy sensation and tearing, especially in the first 24 to 48 hours after PRK. As the surface of the eye heals over the next few days, typically symptoms resolve and vision improves. Most people are able to do things such as drive and work when the contact lenses are removed. Vision should continue to improve over the next few weeks to months.
The long-term results are nearly identical between LASIK and PRK. You and your surgeon will discuss each procedure and choose the best option for you.
PRK takes only minutes per eye. Unlike LASIK, the surgeon does not create a corneal flap. Instead, the surgeon removes the epithelium, or top layer of corneal cells, and applies the Excimer Star S4 IR laser to reshape the cornea. After the precise laser reshaping of the cornea, the surgeon places a soft contact lens on the eye to aid the healing process.
The lenses will be removed by your surgeon after approximately five days. Some patients experience a scratchy sensation and tearing, especially in the first 24 to 48 hours after PRK. As the surface of the eye heals over the next few days, typically symptoms resolve and vision improves. Most people are able to do things such as drive and work when the contact lenses are removed. Vision should continue to improve over the next few weeks to months.
The long-term results are nearly identical between LASIK and PRK. You and your surgeon will discuss each procedure and choose the best option for you.
Schedule Your free Lasik Consultation
Contact us today to schedule a no-cost consultation and discover if you are a candidate for LASIK. To schedule a consultation, call us at 312.695.2549 or fill out this online form.
OUR LOCATION
The Northwestern Medicine LASIK team is located at 259 E. Erie St, Chicago, Illinois in Lavin Pavilion, Suite 1510. For more information, please visit our Contact Us page.
The Northwestern Medicine LASIK team is located at 259 E. Erie St, Chicago, Illinois in Lavin Pavilion, Suite 1510. For more information, please visit our Contact Us page.
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