PRK: PRK (Photorefractive Keratectomy) was the first corneal procedure upon which FDA approval was given for the first generation of FDA approved excimer lasers. PRK involves complete removal of the corneal epithelium (surface layer of the cornea) followed by application of the excimer laser to the exposed corneal surface. The epithelium regenerates over a period of 3-5 days. The visual outcomes between LASIK and PRK are virtually equivalent. LASIK is preferred however due to the quicker recovery.
The Advantage of PRK compared with iLASIK is that there is no flap and therefore no flap complications.
The Disadvantages of PRK compared with iLASIK:
Slow recovery of vision. PRK patients may not have legal driving vision for one week after the procedure,
retreatments also have a slower recovery process than iLASIK retreatments,
rare chance of corneal scarring,
mild/moderate irritation lasting 1-2 days.
Differences between PRK and LASIK
PRK
LASIK
Range of correction
PRK Low to Moderately high
LASIK Low to Moderately high
Wound Depth
PRK Superficial (remove epithelium)
LASIK 20% depth (flap preserves epithelium)
Intraoperative Pain
PRK None
LASIK None
Postoperative Pain
PRK Moderate 24-48 hrs.
LASIK 3 to 6 hrs.
Postoperative Medications
PRK 3 weeks to several months
LASIK 1 to 2 weeks
Functional Vision Recovery
PRK 3 to 7 days
LASIK 24 hours
Visual Results Fully Recognized
PRK 3 weeks to several months
LASIK 1 to 6 weeks
Return to Work
PRK 2 to 3 days
LASIK 1 to 2 days
Risk of Complications
PRK Low
LASIK Low
Risk of Scarring
PRK 1 to 2%
LASIK <1%
Dry Eye Sensitive
PRK 1 to 4 weeks
LASIK Could last up to 12 months or more
Candidates with Thin Corneas or Wide Pupils
PRK Often good candidates
LASIK Candidacy depends on amount of correction needed
Supporting Our Community
The Mitchel and Shannon Wong Eye Institute
The Mitchel and Shannon Wong Eye Institute, recently created at the Dell Medical School, is poised to become a leading-edge center for training future ophthalmologists and providing patients with the best medical and surgical eye care possible.
