Points clés
- PRK (Photorefractive Keratectomy) is a laser vision correction procedure that utilizes an excimer laser to precisely reshape the cornea and correct refractive errors.
- PRK is performed on the surface of the cornea, during which the surgeon brushes off the outermost layer of cells before using the excimer laser to correct a patient’s refractive error.
- PRK is often recommended for patients with thin, steep, or irregular shaped corneas to correct nearsightedness (myopia), farsightedness (hyperopia), and astigmatism.
- The recovery is slightly longer than other vision correction procedures (SMILE and LASIK); however, the results are comparable to SMILE or LASIK, with most patients achieving 20/20 vision or better.
- Herzig Eye Institute conducts free consultations for patients considering laser vision correction in both Toronto and Ottawa. During the consultation, patients will undergo a comprehensive eye exam with an eye doctor, including advanced diagnostic testing, to determine their candidacy for laser vision correction. If you are not a suitable candidate for PRK, Herzig Eye Institute offers alternatives like SMILE, LASIK, and the Intraocular Collamer Lens (ICL) to ensure the best and safest possible visual outcome.
What is PRK?
PRK, or Photorefractive Keratectomy, is the first generation of laser vision correction technology. Since 1989, millions of people have had their vision corrected with PRK. Commonly referred to as ‘surface ablation’, PRK uses an excimer laser to reshape the cornea and correct nearsightedness, farsightedness, and astigmatism.
PRK is recommended when the surgeon determines it is the only safe option, particularly for patients with corneal abnormalities.
Custom PRK Candidacy & Treatments
Lors de votre consultation gratuite, vous subirez des tests diagnostiques pour déterminer votre candidature à la correction de la vision au laser. Pour comprendre quelle procédure vous convient, vous rencontrerez l’un de nos consultants en réfraction expérimentés pour discuter de vos objectifs visuels, poser toutes vos questions, partager les résultats de vos diagnostics et de vos examens oculaires, prendre rendez-vous pour la date de votre intervention et discuter des instructions préopératoires.
PRK may be the preferred laser vision correction procedure:
- When a pre-existing problem is present on the cornea, like thin, steep, or irregularly shaped corneas, and results in better vision than with SMILE® or Custom LASIK.
- When there is a structural abnormality in the cornea, making Custom LASIK or SMILE® unsafe.
If your consultation reveals you are not a candidate for PRK, we are pleased to offer other refractive procedures, including SMILE® and Custom LASIK, as well as intraocular procedures: Refractive Lens Exchange (RLE) and Intraocular Collamer Lens (ICL).
What is the difference between SMILE, Custom PRK, and Custom LASIK?


