PRK (surface treatment)

PRK is a surgical procedure that uses a cool ultraviolet light to shape the surface of the cornea. By removing minute amounts of corneal tissue the radius and the curvature is altered and hence the focal point of the eye.  PRK was the first type of laser eye surgery introduced and allows for removal of tissue with great accuracy and with no significant damage to surrounding tissue.

PRK is a good treatment to consider if you have:

• Low to moderate myopia
• A thin cornea
• Low astigmatism
• Previous laser eye/refractive surgery.

What is PRK (Photo-refractive keratectomy)?

Photorefractive keratectomy (PRK) During PRK, no corneal flap is made making it suitable for people with thin corneas

PRK is a surgical procedure that uses a cool ultraviolet light to shape the surface of the cornea. By removing minute amounts of corneal tissue the radius and the curvature is altered and hence the focal point of the eye. PRK was the first type of laser eye surgery introduced and allows for removal of tissue with great accuracy and with no significant damage to surrounding tissue.

PRK is a good treatment to consider if you have:

• Low to moderate myopia
• A thin cornea
• Low astigmatism
• Previous laser eye/refractive surgery.

Some disadvantages of surface treatment are:

• Moderate discomfort for 2-4 days
• Relatively slow vision recovery, usually 2-4 weeks
• More variable visual outcomes due to skin healing variability
• Necessity for drops for 2-3 months

Auckland Eye offers a no obligation, free laser assessment.
To make an appointment, or if you have any questions about laser surgery, please call us free on 0800 NEW EYES (0800 63 93 93) or contact one of our friendly specialist team.