What is PRK?
During LASIK, a small flap is created in the corneal tissue to allow the cornea underneath to be reshaped. During PRK, the first layer of the cornea is removed entirely through vaporization so the tissue underneath can be reshaped using a state-of-the-art excimer laser. The corneal layer will then rapidly grow back within one week. The goal of PRK is to allow your ophthalmologist to permanently reshape your eye so it can more effectively focus light.
Your eyes will be numbed during PRK so you’ll feel relaxed and comfortable. Overall, the procedure can take 15 minutes and you can return home afterward. PRK is performed exclusively using laser technology, so it’s quick, precise, and very low risk.
Meet Our Doctors
The LASIK surgeons at Boston Lasik have 20+ years of experience providing innovative eye care procedures to patients of the Boston community. We’re dedicated to quality care for LASIK candidates and patients of all ages.
Who is Eligible for PRK?
PRK is an alternative for patients who don’t qualify for LASIK. Generally, this is patients who have corneas that are too thin and won’t respond well to LASIK techniques. To be qualified for PRK, you should fit the same criteria for LASIK – you should be at least 18, have healthy corneas, and have no changes in your prescription for the past year.
PRK can also be a better option for patients who lead an active lifestyle and might have flap complications if they undergo LASIK.
Ready to Talk?
Ready to take the next step in your journey towards a new lifestyle glasses or contacts free? Connect with our team that’s ready to assist you!
Results and Recovery from PRK
After your procedure, your eyes will be “bandaged” with a specialized contact lens. This will help it heal over the next week. You’ll need to arrange for someone to drive you home after your procedure, and you should plan on resting until your vision heals. It’s normal for your vision to be blurry within the first 3-5 days but this will improve as your corneas regenerate. You’ll return to our team to check your recovery process and ensure your epithelial tissue is healing as it should.
Recovery after PRK is typically longer than LASIK recovery, but is a better option for certain patients. It can take up to one month for your vision to fully adjust, but the result is a permanent improvement in your vision without glasses or contact lenses.
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“My visit with Dr. Brenner was fantastic. He listened to every question that I had before the PRK procedure and answered each one without any feeling of being rushed or uninterested. He and his staff were extremely helpful leading up to, the day of, and after my PRK procedure.”
PRK Eye Surgery in Boston, MA
You have options when it comes to laser vision correction. During an appointment with our knowledgeable team, we can recommend the right options for you to achieve clear vision and get rid of the need for glasses or contacts. To get started, contact our Boston-area offices by calling or filling out our online contact form.
