Custom Surface PRK Surgery

Custom Surface (also called PRK, or Photorefractive Keratectomy), is a laser vision correction procedure that is sometimes used as an alternative to LASIK eye surgery.

In Custom Surface (PRK) surgery, the excimer (vision correction) laser is used to reshape the surface of the cornea. By removing tiny amounts of tissue from the surface of the eye, the laser is able to correct your vision in much the same way as LASIK, but without first creating a corneal flap.

Custom Surface is also sometimes called PRK, Surface Treatment or Surface Ablation

Who is Custom Surface (PRK) suitable for?

Because no corneal flap is created in Custom Surface (PRK), as it is with LASIK, it is often a more suitable alternative for people who cannot have LASIK surgery due to very thin or flat corneas.

It’s more than likely you will be a good candidate for iLASIK , but for those people who are unsuitable for iLASIK, Custom Surface (PRK) is often a good alternative.

The best way to find out if you are suitable for iLASIK or another procedure is to book your free no-obligation assessment at Eye Institute today.

What’s involved in Custom Surface (PRK) surgery?

First, anaesthetic eye drops are administered to numb the eye. Then, a device is gently placed on the eye to help keep it open. The surgeon will then remove the microscopic surface layer of the cornea, so that the layers of the cornea that need to be treated are revealed.

An excimer laser is then applied to the cornea, much like it is in a LASIK procedure, to precisely reshape the surface of the eye. Afterwards, a protective lens is placed over the eye to help it heal.

Healing times are generally longer for Custom Surface (PRK) than for LASIK surgery, because the outer layer of the cornea needs to grow back again.

If you have any more questions about Custom Surface (PRK) surgery, you can contact us, or make an appointment with one of our experienced eye doctors now.