PRK Questions

Southern California

What is PRK?

PRK, or photorefractive keratectomy, is a laser eye surgery procedure similar to LASIK except that the laser works on the surface  the middle layer of your cornea instead of under the flap.

What vision problems can PRK fix?

PRK is most commonly used to treat farsightedness, nearsightedness, and astigmatism.

How does PRK work?

Using  the most advanced laser eye surgery technology, Dr. Feldman reshapes the surface of your cornea to improve your eye’s ability to focus light onto your retina.

What’s the difference between LASIK and PRK?

Both PRK and LASIK are performed with an excimer laser, which uses cool ultraviolet light to gently reshape your cornea. The biggest difference between them is that during the LASIK procedure Dr. Feldman creates a thin corneal flap and the laser ablates the corneal tissue under the flap.  With LASIK Dr. Feldman then replaces the flap, which acts as a natural bandage for the cornea.  With PRK on the other hand, Dr. Feldman uses the laser to reshape the surface of the cornea. Because it takes longer for the eye to heal after PRK, it may involve slightly more discomfort, but the results are just as good as with LASIK.

Is PRK painful?

A mild sedative and topical anesthetic will be administered before the procedure so that most patients only experience a slight pressure on the eye during the procedure. After the procedure, you Dr. Feldman will prescribe medicines to help you manage any discomfort you may experience  during the healing process.

What are the benefits of PRK?

The biggest benefit is an improved quality of life.  With the advanced laser technology used by Dr. Feldman 98% of all PRK patients improve their vision to 20/20 or better, with many patients achieving vision even better than 20/20.

I am now 20/15 with no negative effects! Thank you so much!

R.W.

What are the risks of PRK?

The most common complications include under or over-correction, night glare, haloes, light sensitivity and dryness.  However, the advanced laser eye surgery technology that Dr. Feldman uses for PRK significantly reduces these risks. Dr. Feldman and her staff will go over all of the risks and  potential complications with you in detail during your free PRK consultation.

Why should I choose Dr. Feldman for PRK?

Dr. Feldman is a world-class corneal expert who has performed PRK and other vision correction procedures for more than 20 years. In fact, she has such an exceptional reputation that more than 100 doctors and medical professionals have trusted Dr. Feldman with their vision. Shouldn’t you? 

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