Here at Broberg Eye Care, we take great pride in being one of the leading vision correction centers in the greater Austin area. We offer a comprehensive array of procedures that help improve vision and overall eye health in the process.

PRK (photorefractive keratectomy) is a great laser eye surgery option for improving your vision. Let’s see how it differs from LASIK and determine if it might be right for you.

What Is PRK?

PRK is a type of refractive surgery that uses a safe surgical laser to reshape the cornea. By doing this, the passage of light through the eye is altered, focusing it properly on the retina, which is the light-sensitive tissue located at the back of the eye.

PRK is ideal for treating myopia (nearsightedness), hyperopia (farsightedness), and astigmatism. It’s a great alternative to corrective lenses.

How Does PRK Differ from LASIK?

While PRK and LASIK are similar surgeries in principle, they differ in one important way. During LASIK, a flap is created on the topmost layer of the cornea (the epithelium) which allows the cornea to be reshaped before it is set back down. During PRK, on the other hand, the epithelium is cut away to allow the laser to reshape the cornea. This tissue will grow back as part of the healing process.

General Candidacy for PRK

Ideal candidates for PRK are people who experience refractive errors (myopia, hyperopia, astigmatism) and would like to achieve great vision without the reliance on corrective lenses. They should be in good health overall and understand the risks and benefits of PRK.

Some general guidelines for candidacy include the following:

  • At least 18 years old
  • Not pregnant or nursing
  • Stable prescription for at least one year
  • Free from eye injuries and infection for at least one year
  • Not suffering from dry eye syndrome
  • No issues with keratoconus

LASIK or PRK: Issues with Corneal Shape and Thickness

Many times patients who are interested in undergoing LASIK are not good candidates due to poor corneal thickness or shape. In such cases, patients may be more ideal candidates for PRK. This is a common alternative to LASIK as it works on similar principles.

How Do PRK Results Compare to LASIK?

The results of PRK are comparable to LASIK in many instances, with high rates of success and great levels of patient satisfaction as well. PRK patients may experience a slightly longer recovery process than LASIK patients, but the vision achieved is generally the same, which is to say at least 20/40 vision, and no need to wear glasses or contacts.

Discussing All of Your Treatment Options

Advanced eye care surgery means that you have plenty of options for seeing better and achieving great vision. We’ll be more than happy to go over these matters with you during the consultation process, answering all of your questions and addressing your concerns so you can make the best decisions about your eye health and vision needs.

Contact the Team at Broberg Eye Care

For more information about PRK and how it can help you see the word a little better, be sure to contact our eye care and vision correction specialists today. The team at Broberg Eye Care looks forward to your visit and helping you have the best vision possible.