PRK (photorefractive keratectomy)

PRK is best used for low to moderate amounts of nearsightedness, farsightedness and astigmatism. Some patients are not good candidates for LASIK, for example, because of thin corneas, but may be excellent candidates for PRK. The PRK procedure is also done using topical anesthetic drops. It involves wiping off the surface layer of the cornea and then using the laser to shave down the top of the cornea. A bandage soft contact lens is placed on the eye after surgery. The surface layer heals over the next few days.

While safe and effective, especially in patients with low degrees of nearsightedness, there is often post-operative pain and the vision takes a week or two to get to its best level. Dr. Rapuano has been performing PRK since 1992 as part of the VISX FDA trials. He is a VISX physician instructor for PRK, LASIK and PTK courses.