PRK (Photo Refractive Keratectomy) in Columbia MO

PRK (Photorefractive Keratectomy) in Columbia MO is an advanced laser vision correction procedure designed to reduce or eliminate common refractive errors, including nearsightedness, farsightedness, and astigmatism. Like LASIK, PRK improves vision by reshaping the cornea so that light focuses more accurately on the retina. However, PRK differs from LASIK because it does not require the creation of a corneal flap.

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What Is PRK?

PRK is a laser-based vision correction procedure that carefully reshapes the cornea to improve the way light enters the eye. During treatment, the thin outer layer of the cornea is gently removed, allowing an excimer laser to precisely reshape the underlying tissue. By adjusting the curvature of the cornea, PRK helps focus light properly on the retina, resulting in clearer, sharper vision.

Once the procedure is complete, a protective bandage contact lens is placed over the eye to support healing and improve comfort. This temporary lens remains in place for several days while the cornea's surface layer naturally regenerates. In most cases, the lens is removed within three to five days.

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PRK vs. LASIK in Columbia MO: What's the Difference?

Both PRK and LASIK are highly effective vision correction procedures that use laser technology to reshape the cornea. The primary difference is that LASIK involves creating a thin flap in the cornea before treatment, while PRK does not.

Because PRK does not require a flap, it eliminates the possibility of flap-related complications and may be a better option for individuals with thinner corneas or certain lifestyle considerations. The tradeoff is a slightly longer healing period, during which patients wear a protective contact lens while the surface of the eye recovers.

Both procedures offer excellent visual outcomes, and many patients experience a significant reduction in their dependence on glasses or contact lenses.

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Who May Be a Good Candidate for PRK?

You may be a candidate for PRK if you:

• Are at least 18 years old
• Want long-term vision correction
• Have a stable prescription that has not changed significantly within the last year
• Have healthy eyes free from conditions such as glaucoma, diabetic retinopathy, or advanced macular degeneration
• Have corneas that are too thin for LASIK
• Have larger-than-average pupils
• Are looking for an alternative to traditional corrective eyewear

A comprehensive eye examination is the best way to determine whether PRK is right for you.

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PRK at Restoration Eye Care

Your PRK journey begins with a detailed consultation and eye health evaluation. During this visit, your vision prescription, eye health, and corneal measurements will be carefully assessed to determine whether PRK is the most appropriate treatment option for your needs.

Advanced corneal mapping technology is used to create a customized treatment plan. These measurements allow your surgeon to determine exactly where and how much tissue should be reshaped to achieve the best possible visual outcome.

On the day of your procedure, you will arrive approximately one hour before your scheduled treatment time. During this preparation period, you may receive medication to help you relax before surgery. The laser portion of the procedure typically takes only a few minutes per eye.

Following treatment, you will spend a short time recovering before being discharged. Because medication may affect your ability to drive, you should arrange for someone to take you home after your appointment.

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Recovery After PRK

Healing after PRK occurs gradually as the surface layer of the cornea regenerates. The protective contact lenses placed at the end of the procedure should remain in place until your doctor removes them.

A follow-up appointment is usually scheduled within the first 24 to 48 hours after surgery so that our team can evaluate your healing progress and ensure your recovery is proceeding as expected. The bandage contact lenses are generally removed three to five days after treatment.

While many patients notice improvements in vision within the first few weeks, visual clarity continues to sharpen as healing progresses. Most of the corneal healing is complete within the first couple of weeks, with vision continuing to stabilize over the following months. Maximum visual results are typically achieved between three and six months after surgery.