PRK stands for photorefractive keratectomy and, like LASIK, it improves your vision by reshaping the cornea with an excimer laser. Like LASIK, PRK can treat a whole host of refractive errors in your eyesight, including:
- Myopia (nearsightedness)
- Hyperopia (farsightedness)
- Astigmatism
PRK differs from LASIK, however, in the way that Mobile eye surgeon Dr. Chris Walton accesses your cornea for the reshaping process. PRK uses an ablative technique to remove the corneal epithelium, which is the thin outer layer of the cornea, while LASIK relies on a thin corneal flap created by the surgeon. In terms of its objectives, though, PRK is identical to LASIK.
Although LASIK patients usually recover a bit faster than PRK patients, PRK is usually a much better option for individuals who have unusually thin corneas. Thin corneas can disqualify patients as good LASIK candidates, but PRK remains a great choice. PRK may be right for you if you:
- Wish to see clearly without glasses or contacts
- Have been told that you’re not a good LASIK candidate
- Suffer from refractive eyesight errors
- Have had a stable glasses prescription for a year or longer
To learn more about PRK, please contact Dr. Chris Walton using the form at the right side of the page or call 251-341-3385 today to schedule a free consultation. Dr. Walton serves patients in Mobile, Alabama, Pensacola, Florida, and throughout the Gulf Coast region.
