PRK - Photo Refractive Keratectomy

PRK- Photo Refractive Keratectomy. This is the original laser procedure where the outer clear skin layer of the cornea is scraped away and the cornea is re-shaped using the excimer laser. The amount of skin scraped away depends on the type of re-shaping being done, and usually takes about 2-4 days to heal. A contact lens is used as a bandage lens to aid healing and decrease discomfort. Modern PRK post-op care limits pain to mostly the day of the procedure, with little to no pain after day one. PRK is used in cases where a LASIK flap is not appropriate or not desired.

Source: Dr. Motwani's Alpha Laser Center in San Diego.