PRK Lasik Alternative

Are you interested in vision correction surgery? Even if you’re not a candidate for LASIK, you still have options. One LASIK alternative is PRK. Find out more about this laser eye surgery to help you decide if it could be right for you.

Contact Visionary Eye Doctors at (301) 591-1763 for a free PRK consultation.

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What Is PRK?

PRK, or photorefractive keratectomy, is a refractive surgery that reshapes the cornea with a laser, so the light entering the eye comes into focus on the retina to produce clearer images. The surgery takes 10 to 15 minutes per eye and effectively treats myopia (nearsightedness), hyperopia (farsightedness), and astigmatism.

During PRK surgery, the cornea’s outer layer, known as the epithelium, is removed entirely to expose the surgical area. This differs from LASIK, during which a thin, hinged flap is created in the cornea and carefully repositioned to its original position once the procedure is complete. As with LASIK, PRK surgery uses a computer-guided excimer laser to sculpt the cornea and correct the refractive error.

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Advantages & Disadvantages of PRK

Excellent success rate: 90% to 95% of PRK patients achieve 20/40 vision or better with no corrective eyewear needed. Glasses may still be required for reading or nighttime activities.
Long-term results: PRK offers the same lasting vision correction as LASIK. Just be aware that vision may still decline with age, even after PRK or LASIK.

Disadvantages of PRK

More extended recovery period: The initial recovery from PRK can take several days to several weeks, whereas LASIK patients can usually return to work and other regular activities the day after surgery.
Possible over or under correction: While PRK should improve your vision, it may not be perfect. You can improve this problem by wearing glasses or contact lenses or undergoing PRK a second time. In rare cases, vision may be worse after surgery.
Potential complications: As with any surgical procedure, PRK carries risks. The most common problems include glare or halos in your vision, corneal scarring or haze, and eye infections.

Who Is a Good Candidate for PRK?

Meet with your ophthalmologist to discuss your eligibility for PRK. To be a good candidate, you must meet these requirements:

Be 18 years or older (preferably over 21 when your vision has most likely stopped changing)
Have consistent vision with a prescription that hasn’t changed in the last year
Have a refractive error that PRK can treat
Have healthy corneas and good overall eye health

Here’s who should consider PRK as an alternative to LASIK:

People with thin corneas or dry eyes may qualify for PRK if they have been turned away for LASIK because of thin corneas or dry eye syndrome.
Athletes: PRK doesn’t create a permanent corneal flap the way LASIK does. If this flap is dislodged by contact or injury, complications can occur. That’s why PRK is a good LASIK alternative for athletes and others with an active lifestyle.
Cataract surgery patients: If you’ve had cataract surgery, you can fine-tune your vision with PRK, depending on the type of lenses put in your eyes.

PRK may not be suitable for you if you:

Have a disease that affects healing
Have a history of excessive scarring
Have certain preexisting conditions, including cornea disease, cataracts, advanced glaucoma, or uncontrolled diabetes
Are pregnant or nursing

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Schedule a PRK Consultation at Visionary Eye Doctors

The first step toward achieving excellent eyesight is to meet with a PRK surgeon at Visionary Eye Doctors. We’ll evaluate your candidacy for this procedure using advanced diagnostic technology. We’ll also establish a plan to help you achieve the best long-term vision by assessing your vision needs and overall eye health.

To request a free PRK consultation, please contact us online or call (301) 591-1763 today. We have three offices in the DC area to better serve you.