PRK

Vision shapes your view of the world. With Photorefractive Keratectomy (PRK), we provide a pathway to clearer sight that fits into your lifestyle. Our experienced team can help you embrace a life free from glasses and contacts, so that you can enjoy every moment with confidence and ease.

PRK Vision Care offered in Virginia Beach
What is Photorefractive Keratectomy

What is Photorefractive Keratectomy?

Photorefractive Keratectomy (PRK) is a laser eye surgery that corrects vision problems like being unable to see distant objects clearly (nearsightedness) or close objects clearly (farsightedness), as well as, blurred vision stemming from an irregular curvature of the eye (astigmatism).

During PRK, Dr. Neatrour will use an excimer laser to gently reshape the cornea, the clear front surface of your eye. This reshaping improves the way light enters your eye, allowing you to see clearly without relying on glasses or contact lenses.

What Makes PRK Different?

While PRK shares similarities with other laser eye surgeries like LASIK, and LASEK, it offers distinct advantages. Unlike LASIK, which creates a flap in the cornea, PRK removes the outer layer of the cornea before reshaping the underlying tissue. This approach can be particularly beneficial for individuals with dry eye conditions or those who engage in activities with a higher risk of eye injury such as contact sports or manual labor jobs.

What Makes PRK Different?
Is PRK Right For You?

Is PRK Right For You?

Could PRK be your vision solution? You might be a candidate if you:

  • Are at least 18 years of age with stable vision.
  • You’re involved in contact sports or a profession with higher risk of eye injuries.
  • Have thin corneas or other conditions that make LASIK unsuitable.
  • You have mild to moderate refractive errors.
  • Are not pregnant or breastfeeding.
  • You don’t have certain autoimmune diseases or health conditions that could affect healing.

Dr. Neatrour will conduct a thorough eye examination and discuss your medical history to determine if PRK is the best option for your vision correction needs.

What to Expect During The PRK Process

The PRK Procedure involves several steps, of which Dr. Neatrour will walk you through on treatment day. Here’s what to expect:

Eye care offered in Virginia Beach

1. Preparation

Your eyes are numbed with anesthetic drops for your comfort.

Great vision provided in Virginia Beach

2. Epithelium Removal

 The thin outer layer of the cornea (epithelium) is gently removed.

Laser Reshaping in Virginia Beach

3. Laser Reshaping

An excimer laser precisely reshapes the cornea to correct your vision.

Protective Lens Placement in VA

4. Protective Lens Placement

A bandage contact lens is placed to protect your eye as it heals.

Great eye care recovery in Virginia Beach

5. Recovery

The epithelium regrows over 3-5 days, with vision improving gradually over the following weeks.

The entire procedure is typically completed in about 15-20 minutes per eye, allowing you to quickly return to your daily activities.

Experience The Benefits of PRK

Choosing PRK opens the door to numerous advantages, including:

Experience the benefits of PRK
  • Enhanced Confidence: Enjoy life without the constraints of glasses or contacts.
  • Improved Vision:  Most of our patients achieve 20/20 vision or better.
  • No Flap-Related Complications: It eliminates risks associated with corneal flaps.
  • Suitable For Active Lifestyles: It’s ideal for those involved in contact sports or high-impact activities and professions.
  • Long-Term Stability: Results are known for their stability over time.
  • Potential For Future Procedures: Leaves more options open for future vision correction if needed.

Our patients often describe their PRK experience as life-changing, with newfound freedom and satisfaction.

The Rare Risks & Side Effects of PRK

We understand that considering laser eye surgery is a big decision. That’s why we’re committed to open communication and addressing your concerns. While PRK is a safe and effective procedure, it’s important to know that there is a very low risk of complications, such as infection. You may also experience some temporary side effects, such as dry eye, discomfort, glare or halos around lights, which are typically mild and short-lived.

The Rare Risks & Side Effects of PRK
Post-PRK Care and Support in Virginia Beach

Post-PRK Care and Support

Your care doesn’t end after the procedure. We’re here to support your recovery with:

  • Detailed post-operative instructions for you to follow.
  • Regular follow-up appointments to monitor healing progression.
  • Ongoing support to address any questions or concerns you may have.

Our commitment is to your long-term vision health, ensuring that you walk away with the best possible results.

Your Vision, Your Future: Let’s Make It Clear

We believe that everyone deserves to experience life in full clarity. The PRK procedure is the key to unlocking a world of possibilities—whether it’s enjoying a sunrise without squinting, diving into your favorite activities, or simply relishing the beauty of everyday moments.

Ready to see the world in a new light?

Your Vision, Your Future in Virginia Beach