LASER VISION CORRECTION
Learn About Laser Vision Correction
When most people think of “laser vision correction,” LASIK comes to mind. But contrary to popular belief, that’s not the only option.
In fact, Eye Centers of Tennessee offers a laser vision procedure known as PRK, short for photorefractive keratectomy. During the PRK procedure, the cornea is reshaped using a laser. This allows light entering the eye to be focused onto the retina, which leads to clear vision.
The procedure itself is similar to LASIK, since both use a laser to reshape the cornea, and both procedures have similar outcomes. During PRK, instead of creating a flap in the cornea like LASIK does, the thin outer layer of the cornea is removed and then the cornea is reshaped. That layer of the cornea regrows within a few days after surgery.
PRK offers several distinct benefits for patients, including a reduced risk of compromised corneal thickness, no risk of corneal flap-related complications since no flap is created during PRK, and the fact that it’s suitable for patients with a thin cornea.
Is Laser Vision Correction Right for You?
The ultimate decision to undergo laser vision correction is between you and your eye care provider, who will review your eye health history and other factors. It’s important to understand that while the goal is to reduce or eliminate dependence on corrective lenses, it is not possible to guarantee a specific outcome.
In order to qualify, patients must:
- Be 18 or older
- Have had a stable glasses or contact lens prescription for at least two years
- Have a refractive issue that’s correctable with laser vision correction
If you decide you’d like to undergo laser vision correction and you wear contact lenses, you’ll need to leave them out and wear glasses for the two weeks prior to your consultation to ensure accurate measurements can be captured.