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PRK LASIK (Photorefractive Keratectomy)

Mel90 Full View v7PRK LASIK is generally recommended for patients whose corneas are too thin to allow for the creation of the LASIK flap safely. PRK LASIK is a refractive surgery in which the central epithelium, or surface layer of the cornea, is removed by the surgeon, and then the corneal bed is directly reshaped with the laser.

The surgeon may choose to use an anti-inflammatory compound Mitomycin C on some patients. Mitomycin C is a powerful pharmaceutical agent which inhibits haze in patients post PRK Surgery. It is highly recommended to use Mitomycin C on all patients with greater than -4.00 D prescriptions who are having PRK since these patients are at greater risk of the complication of haze formation post operatively.

To promote healing and comfort, a bandage contact lens is placed on the cornea. The corneal epithelium will heal within 5-6 days in the average patient. During this period, it is recommended that you are monitored daily by our optometrists or your eye care professional until the contact lens is removed.

After the contact lens is removed, the follow-ups are usually more spaced out. Because there is no flap created, restrictions with physical activities are less than what is imposed upon LASIK patients.

Myopia (nearsightedness), hyperopia (farsightedness) and astigmatism can be treated using PRK. Again, presbyopia cannot be corrected by excimer laser treatments.

If you are having PRK, it probably means your corneas are thinner than average, your prescription is higher or both.