PRK is a type of refractive laser surgery for the correction of nearsightedness (myopia), farsightedness (hyperopia) and astigmatism.  PRK is the predecessor to the popular LASIK procedure.

PRK us still used today with great success, in cases where it can offer advantages over LASIK for some patients.

The difference between PRK and LASIK:

Like LASIK surgery, PRK also reshapes the cornea by using an excimer laser.  This allows light that enters the eye to properly focus on the retina for clear vision.

The main difference between PRK and LASIK is that in LASIK, a thin flap is created on the cornea and the laser treatment is performed underneath the flap.  In PRK the cornea’s entire epithelial (outer) layer is removed to expose the area where laser treatment will be performed.  No flap is created.  This results in PRK recovery being slower, since it takes a few days for new epithelial cells to regenerate and cover the sensitive surface of the eye.