In PRK, Dr. Emara will first remove the top protective layer (epithelium) of the cornea instead of creating a corneal flap as in LASIK.
The second step of the PRK procedure is to reshape the cornea with the excimer laser. After the procedure is complete a bandage contact lens is placed in the eye.
The epithelium will regenerate in about 3-5 days and the doctor sees you daily at Emara Laser Eye Centers until the epithelium is healed. While the epithelium is healing patients typically experience irritation, tearing and discomfort. Visual recovery is slower in PRK and that is why only one eye is done at a time. PRK was mainly performed prior to development of LASIK. However, it is still used in select cases for example, where the cornea is too thin for LASIK or if there is a pre-existing scar that can be eliminated through the procedure.