Photorefractive Keratectomy (PRK) is an elective outpatient laser vision correction procedure to improve vision and reduce or eliminate the need for eyeglasses or contact lenses. In PRK surgery, the laser surgeon uses the excimer laser to reshape the curvature of the eye for patients with nearsightedness, farsightedness and astigmatism.
PRK vs LASIK
Prior to LASIK Eye Surgery, PRK surgery was the most commonly performed laser vision correction procedure. PRK differs from LASIK, in that the surgeon does not create a flap. PRK surgery is best suited for patients with thinner corneas, or with vocational or sports-related limitations where a corneal flap is contraindicated.
What Is Custom PRK?
Custom PRK surgery is a procedure that allows your surgeon to customize the conventional PRK procedure to your individual eyes. Custom PRK provides an additional level of data about your visual system using Wavefront technology.
- The Wavefront analyzer’s software performs complicated measurements and presents a visual representation of how light is bent by your eye for the surgeon to evaluate.
- Data from this process is transferred to the laser, which generates a treatment plan for your refractive error including both low and higher-order aberrations (visual imperfections).
- Treating a patient with the information taken from the wavefront analyzer can result in greater clarity of vision and fewer complaints of glare or night halos.
Your doctor will help you determine if you could benefit from the higher level of individualization that Custom PRK surgery may provide.
Who Is A Candidate for PRK?
We understand that choosing the right vision correction procedure is a significant decision. PRK (Photorefractive Keratectomy), offers an excellent alternative to LASIK for patients looking to achieve clearer vision without the creation of a corneal flap. Before deciding if PRK is suitable for you, it’s essential to undergo a thorough consultation with our experienced laser surgery specialists.
Comprehensive Consultation Process
When you visit TLC Laser Eye Centers for your complimentary consultation, you can expect a detailed evaluation designed to assess your candidacy for the procedure. During the consultation our team will conduct several essential tests and measurements:
- Visual Acuity Examination: Assessing your current prescription to understand your vision needs.
- Corneal Surface Mapping: Mapping the curvature and topography of your corneas to ensure precise surgical planning.
- Corneal Thickness Measurement: Evaluating the thickness of your corneas to determine the right procedure for you.
- Prescription Stability Check: Verifying the stability of your prescription to ensure optimal surgical outcomes.
These tests, along with a comprehensive eye examination by our laser surgery expert, will provide a thorough assessment of your eyes’ health and suitability for PRK.
Detailed Discussion with Refractive Surgery Counselors
Following your examination, one of our experts will guide you through the details of the procedure. They will address any questions or concerns you may have about the surgery, recovery process, and expected outcomes. Our experts are also available to discuss scheduling options and financing plans tailored to your needs, ensuring transparency and comfort throughout your journey.
How the PRK Procedure Works
Here’s how the PRK surgery procedure works:
- There are no scalpels or incisions with the PRK laser vision correction procedure.
- The laser is properly calibrated before your PRK procedure begins.
- An instrument is used to prevent blinking during the procedure.
- Anesthetic drops are applied to numb your eye and prevent discomfort.
- The protective surface layer (epithelium), which is too soft to hold the laser correction, is removed. The epithelium will regrow within five days.
- Your PRK surgeon then applies computer-controlled pulses of cool laser light to reshape the curvature of the eye. Deeper cell layers remain untouched.
The PRK laser vision correction process is completed in approximately five minutes. Upon completion, the surgeon places a clear bandage contact lens on the cornea to protect it and applies more eye drops. Since a layer about as slender as a human hair is typically removed, the cornea should maintain its original strength.
Often, both eyes are treated on the same PRK surgery day. However, your surgeon may decide to do only one eye at a time.
What to Expect with PRK
At TLC Laser Eye Centers, we discuss the risks of the surgery with you prior to your procedure. Proper pre-operative screening and testing is used to ensure that it is medically advisable for you to have PRK surgery. Diligent post-operative care helps to identify and address potential healing complications.
- PRK healing is slower and results in discomfort and compromised vision during the healing process
- Patients are seen daily following the procedure until the surface layer heals into place
- Patients do not typically see well enough to drive during this healing period
Using FSA and HSA for LASIK and PRK Costs
Understanding Flexible Spending Accounts (FSA) and Health Savings Accounts (HSA)
Many individuals have access to Flexible Spending Accounts (FSA) or Health Savings Accounts (HSA) through their employers’ healthcare plans. These accounts allow you to set aside pre-tax dollars to cover eligible medical expenses, including the cost of LASIK and PRK surgeries.
Benefits of FSA and HSA for PRK
Contributing to an FSA or HSA can significantly reduce the out-of-pocket costs associated with PRK surgery. By planning ahead and making contributions throughout the year, you can maximize your tax savings and allocate funds specifically for your vision correction needs.
Insurance Coverage for PRK
Overview of Insurance Coverage
It’s important to note that traditional medical and vision insurance plans typically do not cover the cost of laser eye surgeries such as LASIK and PRK. These procedures are considered elective and are not included in standard insurance coverage.
Potential Discounts through Vision Insurance
While direct coverage for PRK may not be available through insurance plans, some vision insurance providers have arrangements with laser vision centers to offer discounts to their members. These arrangements involve the laser vision provider paying a fee to the insurance company in exchange for marketing discounts to their members. If you have vision insurance, it’s worth exploring whether such discounts are available to you.
For more information on the PRK surgery procedure, schedule a Free Consultation