PRK (sometimes called LASEK) is similar to LASIK, it differs only in the method to prepare the eye before laser correction. With PRK, rather than creating a microscopic flap, the surface of the eye is prepared with an alcohol-based fluid and then the laser treatment is applied. Laser treatment with PRK is exactly the same as LASIK giving you great vision with Wavefront Guided CustomVue technology. A bandage contact lens is placed over the eye after the procedure to promote healing and provide protection. This contact lens is removed around a week after the procedure after the eye has healed.
When we look at an image light passes through the outer most portion of the eye (cornea), through the lens, and focuses on the back of the eye (retina). Imperfections in vision can be caused by any part of this journey. Laser vision correction works to gently reshape the cornea treating the most common imperfections in vision: myopia (nearsightedness), hyperopia (farsightedness), and even astigmatism.
PRK is a flap-less alternative to LASIK. Treatment is completed in 3 short steps.
A diluted alcohol solution is applied to the surface of the eye to prepare for treatment.
An excimer laser gently reshapes the surface of the eye in around 60 seconds.
After treatment a contact lens is placed over the eye to promote healing. With PRK, patients vision gradually improves over the course of around a week.
Check out our short animated video of a PRK treatment. In the time it takes to watch the video, your vision could be corrected with PRK.
No-Flap Procedure
Quick and Proven
Painless
Freedom From Lenses
| PRK | LASIK | |
|---|---|---|
| Corrects | ||
| Nearsightedness | ✔ | ✔ |
| Farsightedness | ✔ | ✔ |
| Astigmatism | ✔ | ✔ |
| Treatment | ||
| Lasers Used | 1 | 2 |
| Flap Required | ✗ | ✔ |
| Patients With Thin Corneas | ✔ | ✗ |
| Recovery | ||
| Vision | ★★★★★ | ★★★★★ |
| Recovery Time | ★★★☆☆ | ★★★★☆ |
| Resume All Activities | ★★☆☆☆ | ★★★☆☆ |
Patients often ask if LASIK is better than PRK and how they are different. Both LASIK and PRK deliver excellent outcomes and are proven procedures, however for some patients PRK is a safer alternative.
Thin corneas: Unlike LASIK, PRK does not involve a flap, making it (along with SMILE) a treatment option for patients with thin corneas.
High dry-eye score: Patients at risk for dry eyes benefit from PRK as the risk of dryness after treatment is lower (How we screen for Dry Eye).
Career: Certain professions prefer or require PRK treatment such as combat-bound soldiers and others in special operations.
Lifestyle: Those with a high chance of trauma to the eye, such as athletes, benefit from PRK as the risk to vision is lower if the eye experiences trauma from a foreign object.
You’ve already taken the first, most important step by educating yourself about PRK and laser vision correction. Now, schedule your complimentary consultation to find out if you are a great candidate for PRK.
The entire team is very friendly and make you feel comfortable, if not just on a consultation, but the procedure and follow up visits. Overall, I am very happy with my experience and results - 20/15!
Recommend this place to multiple family members and colleagues at the firehouse. Staff is very professional, courteous and always helpful. Can't understand why it took me so long to get the procedure done.
Best Laser Eye Experience! They made me feel right at home throughout the whole process and suggested appropriate
procedures for my eyes specifically. Highly recommend Dr. Haddad!
I had both eyes done a little over 5 years ago. Best decision I have ever made. Dr. Haddad was impossible to beat.
Amazing doctor amounts to amazing results.
The office has 3 different lasers, so they can suggest whichever method will work best for each patient. Dr. Haddad is just amazing, too. He truly cares for his patients and makes sure that your outcome is the best it can be.
Dr. Haddad is the best in his field, and went above and beyond to explain everything, even drawing diagrams. I constantly
recommend this place to my friends, family, and coworkers!
I had an absolutely wonderful experience with Dr. Haddad and his whole staff!! They even checked in on me at 8pm on a Friday night the day of my procedure -- I can't say enough good things about it!
This was the best decision I ever made in my life. From the moment I applied online for a consultation to the post-op exams, Dr. Haddad and his staff have been friendly, informative, and make the process so comfortable.
If you’re thinking of getting LASIK, do it!! I am so glad I did. It has been almost 2 years since I had my surgery and it
was one of the best decisions I have made in my life.
