If you’re considering laser vision correction but aren’t a candidate for LASIK, PRK (photorefractive keratectomy) may be the ideal solution for achieving clear vision. At King LASIK, we serve patients throughout Seattle, Spokane, Portland, Tacoma, Olympia, Vancouver, Everett, Tri-Cities, Scottsdale, and even Alaska with advanced PRK procedures performed by Dr. Joseph King, one of North America’s most experienced laser vision correction surgeons who has performed the most laser vision corrections in North America.
PRK offers the same exceptional vision correction results as LASIK but uses a different approach that makes it suitable for patients with thin corneas, irregular corneal shapes, or active lifestyles that may not be compatible with traditional LASIK surgery.
PRK is a laser vision correction procedure that reshapes the cornea to correct refractive errors including nearsightedness (myopia), farsightedness (hyperopia), and astigmatism. Unlike LASIK, which creates a corneal flap, PRK removes the thin outer layer of the cornea (epithelium) before using an excimer laser to precisely reshape the underlying corneal tissue.
According to the American Academy of Ophthalmology, PRK was the first laser vision correction procedure developed and has been safely performed for over three decades with excellent long-term outcomes.1
The procedure steps:
The laser treatment itself takes less than one minute, making PRK an efficient outpatient procedure performed with the precision that comes from Dr. King’s extensive experience with over 250,000 laser vision corrections.
While both PRK and LASIK achieve similar vision correction results, they differ in their surgical approach and recovery timeline:
We may recommend PRK if you have:
Dr. King and the King LASIK surgeons utilize state-of-the-art excimer laser technology to ensure precise, customized treatment for each patient. Features include:
PRK has an excellent safety profile with high patient satisfaction rates. According to peer-reviewed studies published in the Journal of Refractive Surgery, PRK demonstrates excellent long-term outcomes with minimal complications.3
As with any surgical procedure, PRK carries some risks, though serious complications are rare. According to FDA data on refractive surgery, potential risks include:
PRK costs vary based on individual treatment needs and technology used. During your consultation, we’ll provide detailed pricing information and discuss available financing options to make your vision correction investment affordable.
Many patients find that the long-term savings from reduced dependence on eyewear make PRK a valuable investment in their quality of life.
King LASIK offers PRK photorefractive keratectomy with Dr. Joseph King at multiple locations throughout Seattle, Tacoma, Lynnwood, Tri-Cites, Vancouver/Portland, Tigard and Scottsdale/Phoenix. As one of North America’s most experienced laser vision correction surgeons with over 250,000 procedures performed, Dr. King provides personalized care ensuring you receive the highest quality treatment close to home.
PRK can often be combined with other vision correction procedures depending on your individual needs. Some patients benefit from combining PRK with treatments for presbyopia, such as monovision correction, or may be candidates for enhancement procedures if needed. During your consultation, we’ll discuss whether combining PRK with other refractive surgery options might optimize your visual outcomes.
PRK provides permanent vision correction by reshaping your cornea. According to long-term studies published in refractive surgery journals, PRK results remain stable for decades.4 While age-related changes like presbyopia may eventually affect your vision, the corneal reshaping from PRK is permanent.
Most patients experience mild to moderate discomfort for the first few days after PRK, which is well-managed with prescribed medications and protective contact lenses. The discomfort is temporary and significantly improves as the epithelium heals. Dr. King’s experience helps optimize comfort during recovery.
Yes, PRK effectively treats astigmatism along with nearsightedness and farsightedness. The excimer laser can be programmed to correct the irregular corneal shape that causes astigmatism, providing clear vision at all distances. Dr. King’s extensive experience ensures precise treatment of complex prescriptions including astigmatism.
Take the first step toward visual freedom with a comprehensive PRK evaluation. Our experienced team, led by Dr. King – one of North America’s most experienced laser vision correction surgeons – will provide exceptional care at all locations.
Your future is waiting to be seen.
