Photorefractive keratectomy (PRK) is a laser vision correction procedure used to treat refractive errors such as nearsightedness, farsightedness, and astigmatism. Like LASIK, PRK uses an excimer laser to reshape the cornea so that light focuses more precisely on the retina. The primary distinction between PRK and LASIK is that PRK does not involve creating a corneal flap. Instead, the procedure is performed directly on the corneal surface after the outer epithelial layer is removed.
At Schwartz Laser Eye Center, PRK is one of several refractive surgery options evaluated during a comprehensive consultation. Patients in Scottsdale, Glendale, and Mesa, AZ undergo detailed diagnostic testing to determine which procedure is most appropriate based on their ocular anatomy and visual goals.
What Is PRK?
This procedure uses a highly precise excimer laser to reshape the corneal surface and correct refractive errors. Refractive errors occur when the shape of the cornea causes light entering the eye to focus incorrectly, leading to blurred vision.
During PRK, the thin outer epithelial layer of the cornea is gently removed to expose the underlying corneal tissue. Once this layer is removed, the excimer laser is used to reshape the cornea based on the patient’s individualized refractive measurements. After laser treatment is completed, the epithelial layer regenerates naturally as part of the healing process.
Because PRK works directly on the corneal surface, it is categorized as a surface ablation procedure. Other procedures in this category include LASEK and Epi-LASIK.
How PRK Differs from LASIK
Both PRK and LASIK use an excimer laser to reshape the cornea. The difference lies in how the cornea is accessed before the laser treatment is applied.
In LASIK, a thin flap is created in the cornea using a specialized surgical instrument or laser. This flap is lifted to allow the excimer laser to reshape the underlying corneal tissue. After the laser portion of the procedure is complete, the flap is repositioned.
PRK does not involve the creation of a corneal flap. Instead, the epithelial layer is removed before the laser treatment. Because no flap is created, PRK preserves more of the corneal structure. This distinction may be relevant during candidacy evaluations where corneal thickness or structural considerations are important.
At Schwartz Laser Eye Center, ophthalmologists and optometrists use detailed diagnostic testing to determine whether LASIK, PRK, EVO+ ICL, or another refractive procedure is most appropriate.
Who May Be Considered for PRK
PRK may be evaluated for individuals with refractive errors who are not ideal candidates for LASIK based on corneal measurements or other anatomical considerations. Patients with thinner corneas or certain corneal surface characteristics may be evaluated for surface ablation procedures such as PRK.
Candidacy is determined during a comprehensive consultation that includes a review of ocular history, refractive stability, and corneal imaging. Because every eye is unique, the most appropriate procedure is determined through diagnostic findings rather than preference for a specific technique.
The PRK Evaluation Process
Before PRK is considered, patients undergo a series of diagnostic tests designed to evaluate ocular structure and overall eye health. These tests may include corneal topography to measure corneal curvature, pachymetry to determine corneal thickness, wavefront analysis to assess optical quality, and tear film evaluation.
These measurements allow the clinical team at Schwartz Laser Eye Center to determine whether surface ablation procedures are appropriate and to plan laser treatment with precision.
Patients considering refractive surgery are also evaluated for prescription stability, which helps ensure that the measurements used to guide treatment remain consistent.
The PRK Procedure
PRK is performed using a computer-guided excimer laser programmed with the patient’s refractive measurements. After the epithelial layer is removed, the laser reshapes the corneal surface by removing microscopic amounts of tissue.
Following the laser treatment, a soft bandage contact lens is placed over the cornea. This temporary lens protects the corneal surface while the epithelial layer regenerates. The bandage lens remains in place until healing milestones are reached and is removed during a follow-up visit.
Follow-Up Care and Monitoring
After PRK, follow-up visits are scheduled to monitor healing and evaluate visual progress. These visits allow the clinical team to assess corneal regeneration and overall ocular health.
Long-term eye examinations remain important after any refractive procedure. Routine eye care helps monitor vision stability and allows early detection of unrelated age-related eye conditions.
Why Choose Schwartz Laser Eye Center for PRK
Schwartz Laser Eye Center provides refractive surgery evaluations and care for patients in Scottsdale, Glendale, and Mesa, AZ. The practice includes two experienced ophthalmologists, Dr. Jay Schwartz and Dr. Orry Birdsong, who assess candidacy and develop individualized treatment plans.
Using advanced diagnostic technology and a structured evaluation process, our clinical team determines whether PRK or another refractive procedure aligns with each patient’s ocular anatomy and long-term visual considerations.
Schedule a Refractive Surgery Evaluation
If you are considering PRK or another form of laser vision correction, the first step is a comprehensive refractive surgery consultation. During this evaluation, the ophthalmologists and optometrists at Schwartz Laser Eye Center will review your medical history, perform detailed diagnostic testing, and determine which procedure may be appropriate. Contact (480) 483-3937 today.
