Chicago PRK -Northwestern LASIK Physicians

PRK, or Photorefractive Keratectomy, is an amazing refractive procedure that has been helping people improve their nearsightedness for many years. PRK is now approved to treat nearsightedness, farsightedness and astigmatism, PRK uses a focused excimer laser light applied directly to the cornea to correct a refractive error on the surface of the cornea.

Unlike LASIK, the surgeon does not create a corneal flap. Instead, the surgeon removes the epithelium, or top layer of corneal cells and applies the laser with the help of a high-tech computer program. After the precise laser manipulation of the cornea, the surgeon places a soft contact lens on the eye to aid the healing process. After a few days, the contact lens is removed and patients can utilize their new vision. PRK is an effective and quick refractive procedure, lasting only minutes per eye.

Visual improvement is noticeable immediately following PRK surgery, and vision will continue to improve over the next few weeks. Although individual results will vary, PRK has an excellent record of success. FDA research showed that 95% of patients achieved 20/40 vision or better, the standard for passing the vision section of a driver's license exam. Northwestern LASIK Physicians may recommend PRK for patients who are not strong candidates for LASIK.