PRK Eye Surgery in West Palm Beach and Stuart:
A LASIK Alternative

Photo Refractive Keratectomy, or PRK, was a predecessor to the LASIK procedure. It is commonly performed on patients who, for a number of reasons, cannot have traditional LASIK.

Some examples of patients who would be good candidates for PRK include:

*Patients whose corneas are too thin to undergo LASIK
*Patients whose corneas have evidence of scarring or infection
*Patients who are actively serving in the armed forces or reserves

The PRK procedure is very similar to LASIK. In both PRK and LASIK, a laser is applied to the eye as a means of improving vision. The main difference is that, in PRK, there is no flap created by the surgeon using a microkeratome.

In PRK, optical correction is accomplished with a laser that reshapes the surface of the cornea rather than the tissue beneath a flap. This requires the removal of a thin layer of the cornea's superficial cells, which may produce varying degrees of temporary discomfort for up to a few days after your treatment. In general, our PRK patients have reported a slower visual recovery than patients who have traditional LASIK.

The side effects and complications of PRK are similar to those reported with LASIK and should be addressed with the same level of concern. However, there is an extended recovery time associated with PRK, as well as additional post-operative visits. It is also important to remember that PRK surgery is performed on one eye at a time with recovery time needed between procedures.

The quick recovery and relative painlessness of LASIK have made it the surgery of choice for refractive surgeons. However, PRK remains a highly effective procedure for many patients.

If you are determined to be a good candidate to undergo PRK, we will often prescribe additional medications and a thin, soft bandage contact lens to make sure you are more comfortable in the days following your treatment.

If you would like to learn more about PRK, please Contact Us for a FREE CONSULTATION - 877-259-2020.