PRK at Horizon Laser Vision Center

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What Is PRK?

Photorefractive keratectomy (PRK) is a refractive surgery used to correct myopia, hyperopia, or astigmatism. Your ophthalmologist uses a specialized laser to reshape the cornea. However, PRK uses a different technique than procedures like LASIK or SMILE.

Learn more about PRK and how it can help you achieve clearer vision. If you’re interested in this procedure, request a consultation.

How Does PRK Work?

PRK involves the reshaping of your cornea. Your ophthalmologist removes the top layer of your cornea, the epithelium instead of creating a corneal flap, or lenticule. The PRK process is fast, lasting approximately 10 minutes. 

PRK begins with the administration of numbing eye drops and use of an eyelid holder to keep your eye open for the procedure. Your ophthalmologist then uses an alcohol solution and a blunt surgical instrument to remove the epithelium. With this layer removed, your ophthalmologist now has access to the underlying corneal tissue.

Next, your ophthalmologist uses an excimer laser to reshape the cornea, removing precise amounts of tissue. These lasers are computer-controlled devices that use pulses of cool, ultraviolet light.

After reshaping the cornea, your ophthalmologist will place a clear bandage contact lens over your cornea to assist during the healing process, protecting your eye. Your epithelial cells will grow back over the following 5–7 days, and your doctor will then remove the bandage contact lens. 

What Are the Benefits of PRK?

There are several benefits of PRK. The pros of this procedure include: 

  • A high percentage of patients achieve 20/20 or greater vision without glasses
  • This procedure has a 25-year history with a high success rate
  • An alternative to LASIK if you have thin corneas or deep corneal scars
  • No creation of a flap to access the underlying corneal tissue, which reduces the possibility of corneal complications after surgery

Who Is Eligible for PRK?

PRK can be an effective alternative for people not eligible for LASIK, like patients with thin corneas. To discover the ideal laser eye surgery for you, visit us for a consultation.

What Are the Long-Term Results of PRK?

The long-term result of PRK is clearer vision. Research on PRK and LASIK found that approximately 50% of patients had 20/20 or greater vision 4 years after surgery. 

Request a consultation with Horizon Laser Vision Center today if you’re interested in PRK. 

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·Horizon Saskatoon·

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  • 203-728 Spadina Cres. E
  • Saskatoon, SK S7K 3H2

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·Horizon Regina·

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  • 110-1914 Hamilton St.
  • Regina, SK S4P 3N6

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