Additional Options for Vision Correction at The Eye Institute of Utah…PRK and LASEK

Who is a candidate?

LASIK vision correction isn’t for everyone, but PRK or LASEK may be good alternatives for those who seek permanent vision correction. Our qualified doctors can tell you which procedure is best for you.

Photo Refractive Keratectomy (PRK)

What happens in the PRK procedure?

In PRK, a surgeon from The Eye Institute of Utah will mechanically remove a very superficial cell layer of the cornea, known as the epithelium. This may be done with a blade, brush, or in conjunction with a dilute alcohol solution. The surgeon then uses an Excimer laser to reshape the cornea to the desired correction. A laser treatment typically lasts 30 seconds or less depending upon the amount of correction desired. Once the epithelial layer is removed, medication to prevent hazing and/or scarring may be applied for 10 to 20 seconds.

What about recovery?

For your post-operative comfort, your surgeon may apply a bandage soft contact lens to the eye. This allows the cornea to heal under the lens rather than being disturbed by the constant motion of the eyelid. The contact lens is typically left in place for three to five days, though additional time may be required for certain individuals. PRK patients may experience some pain. To insure healing, The Eye Institute recommends patients take about five days off from work or school.

Laser – Assisted sub-epithelial Keratectomy (LASEK)

What is the LASEK procedure?

LASEK is basically a modified form of PRK. In this procedure the experienced surgeon creates a thin flap of corneal epithelium (surface) tissue. It is lifted and folded to one side. The Excimer laser is used to reshape the remaining cornea. At the end of the laser treatment, the epithelium is returned to its original position. A bandage contact lens is then placed on the eye, to promote faster healing and greater comfort. To give proper time for the healing process, The Eye Institute of Utah recommends taking three to five days off from work or school.

LASIK or LASEK, what’s the Difference?

The basic difference between these two techniques is, with LASEK the surgeon makes a flap only with the epithelium, while in LASIK the flap contains both epithelium and stroma tissue. LASEK is more appropriate for people with thin corneal tissue.

Please contact The Eye Institute of Utah at (801) 266-2283 to schedule a free consultation.