PRK

Clear Vision, Even If LASIK Isn’t the Right Fit

PRK (Photorefractive Keratectomy) is one of the most trusted and time-tested laser vision correction procedures available today. In fact, PRK was performed successfully for many years before LASIK and continues to be an excellent option for patients with certain eye characteristics or lifestyle needs.

For many people, PRK provides the same life-changing results as LASIK: clearer vision, greater convenience, and more confidence in everyday life.

At Reisman Eye Institute, we take the time to understand your vision goals and recommend the procedure that is truly best for your eyes.

What Is PRK?

PRK is an advanced laser vision correction procedure that reshapes the cornea to improve how light focuses inside the eye.

Unlike LASIK, PRK does not involve creating a corneal flap. Instead, the outer layer of the cornea is gently removed, and an excimer laser reshapes the underlying tissue to correct refractive errors.

PRK can treat:

Nearsightedness (myopia)
Farsightedness (hyperopia)
Astigmatism

The end result is the same goal as LASIK: clearer vision with less dependence on glasses and contact lenses.

How Is PRK Different from LASIK?

Both procedures use advanced laser technology to improve vision, but they approach treatment differently.

LASIK

Creates a thin corneal flap before reshaping the cornea.

Reshapes the cornea without creating a flap.

Because no flap is created, PRK may be recommended for patients with:

Thin corneas
Dry eye concerns
Certain corneal irregularities
Active lifestyles or occupations where eye injuries are a possibility

Could PRK Be Right for You?

You may be a candidate for PRK if you:

Have been told you’re not a LASIK candidate
Have thinner corneas
Experience dry eyes
Participate in contact sports or physically demanding activities
Want long-term vision correction and reduced dependence on glasses or contacts

A comprehensive evaluation is the best way to determine whether PRK is the right option for your eyes.

Common Reasons Patients Choose PRK

Many patients considering PRK say:

“I was told I couldn’t have LASIK.”
“I want to be less dependent on glasses.”
“My contacts are becoming uncomfortable.”
“I have dry eyes and want to explore my options.”
“I want more freedom when traveling, exercising, or being active.”

Symptoms and Concerns That May Lead You to Consider PRK

You may benefit from a vision correction consultation if you:

Struggle with contact lens discomfort
Feel frustrated by the inconvenience of glasses
Experience frequent dry eyes with contact lens wear
Have a prescription that limits your daily activities
Want a long-term solution for clearer vision

The Benefits of PRK

An Excellent Alternative to LASIK

PRK provides outstanding vision correction for patients who may not be ideal candidates for LASIK.

No Corneal Flap

Because no flap is created, PRK may be preferred for patients with active lifestyles or certain occupations.

Long-Term Vision Improvement

PRK offers lasting vision correction with results that are comparable to LASIK.

Greater Freedom

Enjoy more convenience in daily life with less dependence on glasses and contacts.

Proven Safety and Success

PRK has helped patients achieve clearer vision for decades and remains one of the most trusted vision correction procedures available.

What This Means for You

If you’ve been told you’re not a candidate for LASIK, it doesn’t necessarily mean you’re out of options.

PRK may allow you to experience the same freedom and convenience that many patients enjoy after laser vision correction.

Our goal is to help you find the procedure that best fits your eyes, your lifestyle, and your vision goals.

What to Expect During PRK

Before Your Procedure

You’ll undergo a comprehensive evaluation to determine whether PRK is right for you. We’ll review your eye health, answer your questions, and discuss your expected results.

During Your Procedure

PRK is performed in our office and typically takes only a few minutes per eye.

Your eyes will be numbed with drops to keep you comfortable during treatment.

After Your Procedure

Recovery after PRK is slightly longer than LASIK because the outer layer of the cornea needs time to heal.

During the first several days, you may experience:

Light sensitivity
Mild discomfort or irritation
Blurry vision during the initial healing process
Fluctuating vision as your eyes recover

Most patients begin noticing significant improvement in the weeks following treatment, with vision continuing to sharpen over time.

Why Choose Reisman Eye Institute for PRK?

Choosing vision correction is a personal decision, and expert guidance matters.

At Reisman Eye Institute, you’ll receive:

Personalized recommendations based on your individual needs
Advanced diagnostic technology
Comprehensive evaluations and candidacy testing
Experienced, compassionate care
Support before, during, and after your procedure

We believe every patient deserves a customized approach to better vision.

Frequently Asked Questions

Your eyes will be numb during the procedure. Some patients experience mild discomfort, irritation, or sensitivity during the first few days of healing, which can usually be managed with medication and eye drops.

Yes. For appropriate candidates, PRK provides vision outcomes that are comparable to LASIK.

PRK may be recommended for patients with thin corneas, dry eye concerns, certain corneal characteristics, or active lifestyles where preserving corneal strength is important.

Most patients return to many normal activities within several days, though vision may continue improving over several weeks.

Many patients significantly reduce or eliminate their dependence on glasses and contacts. However, some people may still need reading glasses later in life due to natural age-related changes.

Ready to Explore Your Vision Correction Options?

You may have more options than you think.

Schedule a consultation with our team to learn whether PRK could help you achieve clearer vision and greater freedom from glasses and contacts.

PRK