PRK (Photo Refractive Keratectomy)

Dr. Joseph Dello Russo introduced PRK in 1990, along with a few other pioneering laser surgeons chosen by the FDA. In fact, PRK was the very first laser vision correction surgery, long before LASIK was considered. PRK received FDA approval in 1996, based in large part (25%) on the research conducted at Dello Russo Laser Vision Centers by Dr. Joseph Dello Russo.

Today, Dr. Joseph Dello Russo and his son, Dr. Jeffrey Dello Russo, reserve PRK for their patients who desire laser treatment but are not candidates for LASIK due to thin corneas. During the PRK procedure, the cornea is reshaped directly without the creation of a flap. The results of PRK and LASIK are very similar, and PRK may be a safer and more effective alternative for some patients. In fact, some surgeons prefer PRK to LASIK so much that they only perform it. At Dello Russo Laser Vision Centers , Joseph Dello Russo, M.D., and Jeffrey Dello russo, M.D., can determine which procedure is right for you.

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PRK and LASIK

LASIK is the most common laser eye correction performed today, with about 1.4 million procedures every year. Although LASIK is the better-known and often preferred method, both LASIK and PRK provide patients with the exact same results. However, PRK patients often experience a slower recovery time and more gradual vision improvement.

The primary difference between PRK and LASIK is that the LASIK procedure requires the creation of a corneal flap. To be considered as candidates for LASIK, patients must have a cornea thick enough to support the creation of the flap. In PRK, no flap is made, and the laser is used to shape the cornea directly.

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PRK: Patient Experience

On the day of surgery at Dello Russo Laser Vision Centers, you will meet with your surgeon, Joe Dello Russo, M.D. or Jeffrey Dello Russo, M.D. After being prepared for the procedure, you will be placed under the flying spot laser (Alcon LadarVision), and the surface cells on your cornea will be cleaned away. It takes approximately 10 – 60 seconds to reshape the cornea. Typically, a chemical is applied briefly before a bandage contact lens is applied to the eye. The bandage contact lenses are worn for several days to aid in healing and maximize your comfort after the procedure.

Over the next few days, your vision may be blurry or hazy. The contacts are removed about five days after the procedure. Most patients can return to work within a few days, based on their occupation and individual healing. Vision may fluctuate for up to six months after the procedure before your final results are achieved.

Contact Dello Russo Laser Vision Centers

Contact Dello Russo Laser Vision Centers to schedule a consultation with Dr. Joe Dello Russo or Dr. Jeffrey Dello Russo. With unmatched experience and ability, our surgical team can help patients throughout New York and New Jersey determine if PRK or LASIK is an option for them.

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