PRK in Massachusetts & Rhode Island

PRK (Photorefractive keratectomy) was the very first form of laser vision correction surgery. Designed to correct common vision impairments by removing the thin, outer layer of the cornea and reshaping the tissue beneath, PRK is still used today for patients whose corneas are too thin for other forms of surgery. The results that are provided by PRK surgery are very comparable to those of LASIK, though the recovery processes are a bit different.

Eye Health Vision Centers provides PRK surgery at our Dartmouth and Taunton, MA locations, as well as our Middletown, RI location. When you come in for your consultation, we will work to decide which laser vision correction (PRK or LASIK) is right for you. Your visit will begin with a comprehensive evaluation and discussion about your lifestyle. Our team of highly skilled ophthalmologists will be able to ascertain a tailored treatment plan after this visit.

During your consultation, your general health and medical history will be evaluated to determine if you are an ideal candidate for PRK. Characteristics such as the size of your pupil, the amount of natural moisture your eye produces, and the thickness and curvature of your cornea will be taken into consideration. The candidates best fit for PRK surgery:

• Are 18 years of age or older
• Are not currently suffering from dry eye, ocular diseases, or eye infection
• Are not ideal candidates for LASIK
• Are not pregnant or breastfeeding

Before beginning your procedure, a member of our team will use a specialized eye drop to numb your eyes. When you feel comfortable, we will gently position an eyelid holder over your eyes. Though it may seem intimidating, this will not harm you and is merely meant to prevent you from blinking during surgery. Next, using an excimer laser, the surgeon will reshape your cornea into a more proper shape. The process will be repeated on the other eye. When the surgery is finished, a protective bandage contact lens is placed on each eye to protect them while your eyes heal. PRK surgery only lasts a few minutes from start to finish.

You will need to attend several follow-up appointments over the coming weeks so that our team can monitor your progress and ensure minimal discomfort. The temporary contact lens placed over your eye during surgery will help reduce discomfort and protect your eye during healing. You should expect to feel mild to moderate discomfort for up to four days following surgery with sensitivity to light that could last up to six weeks. You will be able to return to driving a vehicle and attending work or school at around five days post-procedure, though some patients require longer. Many individuals feel back to normal with improved vision 1 – 3 months after surgery with continued visual improvement up to six months afterward.

With the help of our skilled team at Eye Health Vision Centers, PRK can help you to experience life with more clarity, even if you weren't a candidate for LASIK. As the laser vision correction with the longest history of success, PRK has changed the lives of many South Coast-area patients and could change yours, too. Call our Middletown, RI or Dartmouth or Taunton, MA facility today to schedule your consultation and begin taking the steps toward a more fulfilled life.