If you’re considering a laser surgery procedure to improve your vision, you’re likely looking into PRK. Photorefractive keratectomy (PRK) is an established laser procedure that corrects refractive errors. If you’re nearsighted, farsighted, or have astigmatism, PRK may be a viable solution.
A precursor to LASIK procedures, PRK surgery reshapes the cornea without creating a flap. Instead, this procedure allows new cells to develop post-surgery, enabling your eye to focus better and more easily. A thorough evaluation by a qualified doctor can help you come up with the right PRK procedure to improve your vision, and may include surgery in one or both eyes.
Dr Joseph Dello Russo, one of the nation’s preeminent ophthalmologists surgeons, heads up our team of surgeons. Choosing Dello Russo Laser Vision in any of our locations in New York or New Jersey means giving your eyes the very best possible treatment.
Why choose PRK for improved vision?
PRK can be a great option for mild to moderate vision deficits. Reshaping the cornea allows more light to travel through the eye, which serves to make your vision better. Surgery results are consistent and the procedure is highly effective at correcting vision problems, usually resulting in 20/40 or 20/20 vision (without glasses!) once the eyes have fully healed.
PRK is one of the most common approaches to vision correction laser surgery and is widely performed. Like other laser procedures, PRK is an outpatient procedure. You won’t be able to drive yourself home afterward and you may experience discomfort for a few days after the procedure. You may not see immediate vision improvement, but rest assured your sight will continue to get better as the eye heals.
A follow-up prescription will help ensure your eyes heal well and provide you with optimal results. There are also some activities you’ll want to avoid post-procedure. Always check in with your surgeon if you have any questions or concerns about the healing process.
Is there a difference between LASIK and PRK?
While researching laser procedures, you’re likely coming across LASIK as an option. While both LASIK and PRK procedures can improve your vision, they are not the same surgical procedure. The PRK procedure was in place well before the LASIK technique was created.
Though LASIK surgery is a more recent technology, there are reasons to opt for a PRK procedure instead. Notably, some people—like those with thin corneas—may not be candidates for LASIK, but can still have their vision improved with PRK. Though some patients will be candidates for either procedure, there are times where PRK may be the preferred surgical option.
Your career, hobbies, and eye structure will all impact which laser procedure is right for you. Every patient has individual needs for vision improvement, so plan on a consultation before settling on a procedure. This will help ensure you are choosing a treatment plan that’s best for you and your eyes.
Getting started
There’s no reason to settle for imperfect vision when there are procedures, like PRK, out there that can improve your vision. For a full evaluation and to discuss what options might work for you, contact the qualified professionals at Dello Russo Laser Vision. A customized treatment plan will have you on your way to the perfect vision you’ve always wanted to have.
