Individuals with thinner corneas may not have sufficient corneal tissue for the creation of a LASIK flap, making PRK a more suitable option. Additionally, PRK may be a better choice for those involved in high-contact sports or occupations, as there is no risk of flap-related complications. Furthermore, patients with certain corneal irregularities or dry eye syndrome could also benefit from PRK, as it avoids the potential exacerbation of these conditions that can sometimes occur with LASIK.

You may be an ideal candidate for PRK if you are at least 20 years old, have a stable prescription, and have a healthy cornea. A thorough evaluation with our expert team will help determine if PRK or another vision correction procedure is best suited for your needs.

At SVI, we provide transparent, all-inclusive pricing for PRK, which includes all pre-operative exams, the procedure itself, and post-operative care. Please contact our office for the most up-to-date pricing information.

No, PRK is generally a painless procedure. We use anesthetic eye drops to numb your eyes before the surgery, and most patients experience only mild pressure during the procedure. However, during the post-operative period it is very common to have discomfort for the first 4 days after the procedure. Typically, days 2-3 are the most uncomfortable. After that, the pain will improve, and your vision will slowly improve afterwards.

The PRK procedure itself typically takes less than 10 minutes per eye. The laser treatment for reshaping the cornea and correcting your vision usually only takes a few seconds, depending on your prescription and the amount of correction needed.

The recovery after PRK is longer and more uncomfortable than LASIK. Typically, your eyes will be uncomfortable for the first 3-4 days after the procedure. During the procedure, we create a large abrasion on the surface of your eye. To help it heal more comfortably, we place a bandage contact lens that is removed on day 4 after then procedure. Once the lens is removed, the vision starts to clear. Most people can drive 1 week after the procedure, but the vision does not become crisp for at least 1 month. The vision continues to improve over the first 6 months.

As with any surgical procedure, there are potential risks and complications associated with PRK. However, PRK is considered to be a safe and well-studied procedure with a high success rate. During your consultation, our team will discuss the potential risks and benefits to help you make an informed decision.

Our advanced lasers are engineered to accommodate and counteract any involuntary movements. In case of a sudden cough or sneeze, the PRK lasers will momentarily halt and seamlessly resume right where they stopped. Rest assured, there's no cause for worry.

If PRK is not the best option for you, SVI offers a range of alternative vision correction procedures, such as LASIK, SMILE, ICLs, and Refractive Lens Exchange. Our team will help you find the most suitable solution for your unique needs.

Most insurance plans do not cover PRK, as it is typically considered an elective procedure. However, you may be able to use your Health Savings Account (HSA) or Flexible Spending Account (FSA) to cover the cost of PRK. We recommend checking with your insurance provider for details on your coverage.

The results of PRK are permanent for most patients. However, as you age, you may experience age-related vision changes, such as presbyopia or cataracts, which can affect your vision. If needed, additional procedures or treatments can be performed to maintain your clear vision.

To schedule a PRK consultation at Shafer Vision Institute, simply contact our office by phone or through our website. Our friendly staff will assist you in finding a convenient appointment time and provide you with any necessary information before your visit.