Photorefractive keratectomy (PRK) has helped millions of people achieve clearer vision through advanced laser vision correction. As the original FDA-approved laser refractive procedure, PRK continues to be an excellent option for patients who want to reduce their dependence on glasses or contact lenses but may not be ideal candidates for LASIK eye surgery.
At Intermountain Eye Centers, our experienced surgeons use advanced technology, including the WaveLight EX500™ excimer laser, to deliver highly personalized treatment. If you’re considering the PRK surgery Boise trusts, our team will carefully evaluate your eyes, discuss your vision goals, and recommend the procedure that best fits your individual needs.
PRK and LASIK procedures are both highly successful vision correction procedures that reshape the cornea using an excimer laser to correct nearsightedness, farsightedness, and astigmatism. Both procedures produce excellent long-term results, but they achieve them in slightly different ways.
During LASIK surgery, a thin corneal flap is created before the laser reshapes the underlying tissue. PRK does not create a corneal flap. Instead, the outer layer of the cornea is gently removed before treatment, allowing the surface to regenerate naturally during recovery.
Because no flap is created, PRK is often recommended for patients with thin corneas, irregular corneal anatomy, active lifestyles, or participation in contact sports. While LASIK recovery is generally quicker, PRK offers comparable visual outcomes and may reduce the risk of flap-related complications.
Many patients who are not candidates for LASIK may still qualify for PRK. The ideal candidate has maintained a stable prescription for at least one year and has healthy eyes free of active disease.
During your consultation, our doctors perform a comprehensive evaluation using advanced diagnostic technology to determine the safest and most effective treatment. Your assessment considers prescription stability, corneal thickness, eye health, lifestyle, and long-term vision goals before any recommendations are made.
PRK may be recommended if you have:
Our experienced surgeons take time to answer every question so you can make an informed decision with confidence.
Your surgeon administers numbing drops before treatment begins, making the procedure comfortable for most patients. The thin outer layer of the cornea, called the epithelium, is then carefully removed to prepare the eye for laser treatment.
Using the WaveLight EX500™ excimer laser, your surgeon precisely reshapes the cornea to correct refractive errors and improve vision. The laser treatment itself lasts only seconds and is customized to your prescription for exceptional precision.
Once treatment is complete, a clear bandage contact lens is placed over the eye to protect the healing surface and improve comfort. This temporary lens contains no prescription correction and remains in place while the outer layer of the cornea regenerates naturally.
Recovery after PRK takes longer than LASIK because the outer layer of the cornea must heal before vision fully stabilizes. Most patients experience blurry vision, light sensitivity, and mild discomfort during the first few days, with initial healing generally occurring within five to seven days.
Follow-up appointments usually begin within 24 to 48 hours after surgery and continue throughout your recovery so your surgeon can monitor healing and answer any concerns. The bandage contact lens is typically removed around the fifth postoperative visit once the eye has healed sufficiently.
Vision continues improving during the first few weeks, and many patients return to work and normal daily activities within about a week. Full visual recovery may continue for up to three months as your eyes stabilize and adapt.
Our team provides detailed post operative care instructions, including prescribed eye drops, protective eyewear recommendations, and recovery guidelines designed to promote successful healing and long-term results.
Yes. PRK has an excellent safety record and remains one of the most successful refractive procedures available. Approximately 95% of patients achieve vision that meets or exceeds the legal driving standard after treatment. Your surgeon will review your eye health, expectations, and treatment goals during your consultation to ensure PRK is an appropriate option.
The procedure itself is painless because numbing drops keep the eye comfortable throughout treatment. Most patients experience mild soreness, light sensitivity, or irritation during the first few days of recovery, but prescribed medications and eye drops help manage these symptoms effectively.
The entire procedure typically takes about 10 to 15 minutes per eye, while the laser treatment itself lasts only seconds. Most patients spend more time preparing for surgery than they do under the laser.
Advanced laser technology continuously tracks even small eye movements throughout the procedure. If your eye moves outside the treatment area, the laser automatically pauses and resumes only when proper alignment is restored.
PRK is an excellent option for many patients, particularly those with thin corneas, active lifestyles, or prescriptions involving nearsightedness, farsightedness, or astigmatism. Our comprehensive evaluation allows our doctors to determine whether PRK or another vision correction procedure is the best choice for your unique needs.
Your PRK investment is $2,500 per eye, regardless of prescription complexity or treatment customization. Financing options are available, and HSA or FSA funds may be used to help offset costs. Because PRK is an elective procedure, most insurance plans do not provide coverage, although some providers may offer discounts. Our team will discuss all available payment options during your consultation so you can move forward with confidence.
Choosing refractive surgery is an investment in your quality of life, and experience matters. Our experienced surgeons combine advanced technology with personalized care to deliver exceptional outcomes for every patient.
Throughout your PRK journey, our entire staff is committed to providing professional guidance, answering questions, and helping you feel informed from your initial consultation through your final follow-up appointment. Our goal is to help you achieve better vision with a treatment plan built specifically around your eyes and your lifestyle.