Photorefractive Keratectomy (PRK) is a safe, proven laser eye surgery that corrects nearsightedness (myopia), farsightedness (hyperopia), and astigmatism. Unlike LASIK, PRK does not create a corneal flap —making it an excellent choice for patients with thin corneas, dry eyes, or active lifestyles.
Who Is a Good Candidate for PRK?
Age 18+ with stable vision for at least 1 year
Healthy eyes with no infections, scars, or severe dry eye
Corneas too thin for LASIK, or you prefer a flapless procedure
Realistic expectations about results and recovery
Not pregnant or nursing (hormones can affect vision stability)
Sensitivity to light (photophobia)
Note: If you wear contact lenses, stop wearing soft lenses 3+ days (rigid lenses: 3+ weeks) before your evaluation.
The PRK Procedure: Simple & Painless
Total time: ~10 minutes per eye
Anesthesia: Numbing eye drops only—no needles
Comfort: Mild sedative available; you stay awake and relaxed
How PRK Works
PRK uses a cool, computer-controlled excimer laser to gently reshape the cornea—the clear front surface of your eye—so light focuses correctly on the retina.
Vision Issue What Happens How PRK Fixes It
Nearsightedness Eyeball is too long light focuses in front of retina Laser flattens the center of the cornea
Farsightedness Eyeball is too short light focuses behind retina Laser steepens the cornea's outer edge.
Astigmatism Cornea is football-shaped light splits into two focus points Laser smooths the cornea into a more spherical shape
Vision Issue
What Happens
How PRK Fixes It
Nearsightedness
Eyeball is too long
light focuses in front of retina Laser flattens the center of the cornea
Farsightedness
Eyeball is too short
light focuses behind retina Laser steepens the cornea’s outer edge.
Astigmatism
Cornea is football-shaped
light splits into two focus points Laser smooths the cornea into a more spherical shape
😌 Comfort: Mild sedative available; you stay awake and relaxed