PRK
If you have blurry vision due to nearsightedness, farsightedness, or astigmatism but are not a candidate for LASIK, there is an alternative.
Photorefractive keratectomy (PRK) is a safe and effective refractive surgery that produces excellent long-term results comparable to LASIK.
At Primary Eye Care Associates in Chicago, IL, Dr. Steven Chander can perform PRK to reduce or eliminate your need for glasses and contacts. Book a consultation with him today.
How Does PRK Work?
Photorefractive keratectomy is a laser eye surgery designed to correct refractive issues, which occur when the shape of the eye prevents light from bending and focusing correctly.
During PRK, an eye doctor uses an excimer laser to precisely reshape the cornea, or the outermost layer of the eye. This allows light to better focus on the retina in the inner eye, which captures light signals and transmits them to the brain for interpretation.
This surgery is effective at correcting myopia, hyperopia, and astigmatism—three of the most common vision issues. The entire procedure usually takes less than 15 minutes for both eyes and can lead to substantial, lasting vision correction.
See Life Clearly Again Contact Our Practice Today
If you have been told that you are not a suitable candidate for LASIK and are seeking the vision correction option that is right for you, a PRK surgery consultation at our Chicago, IL, practice can help us determine if this advanced procedure is right for you. Patients with certain corneal conditions, scarring, or a thin cornea may not be candidates for LASIK vision correction because these issues can affect the creation of the corneal flap.
We are located in the Garfield Ridge neighborhood, just minutes from Midway Airport. Contact us online to send a message or request your appointment with Dr. Steven Chander. You can also reach Primary Eye Care Associates in Chicago by phone.
Call: (773) 524-6637
Exceptional Eye Care for Chicago Read Our 5-Star Reviews
James Karasek
Chicago, IL
2023
I have been going to Dr. Chander since he started at primary, he’s the best. Dr. Chander has gotten me and my family through lots of eye emergencies and routine care, his staff is professional and friendly. The equipment that they use continually gets updated as new technology comes out. You just can’t find this level of service and tech at a chain store.
View on GoogleARGELIA MELENDEZ
Chicago, IL
2023
This place is the most awesome place you've been to. Everyone there are very polite, very specific in detailed about everything they talk to you about, they make sure that you understand everything they talk to you about so there won't be a misunderstanding. I recommended my friends there. AWESOME
View on GoogleNot a Good Candidate for LASIK? PRK May Be Your Solution
PRK is a form of laser eye surgery that does not involve a corneal flap, making it a good solution for many who are not good LASIK candidates due to thin corneas. Similarly to LASIK, PRK can enhance your vision and eliminate the need for corrective lenses. If you're considering laser eye surgery, Dr. Steven Chander can review your candidacy to determine if PRK is the best treatment.
PRK vs. LASIK Vision Correction
PRK and LASIK vision correction procedures share important similarities.
For example, they:
- Correct refractive errors of the eye that cause myopia (nearsightedness), hyperopia (farsightedness), and astigmatism
- Involve the use of a laser to reshape the cornea and correct refractive errors
- Produce comparable vision correction results
However, there are some important differences between the two procedures.
However, there are some important differences between the two procedures.
|
Accessing the Corneal Tissue |
Corneal Healing |
Recovery Length |
|
|---|---|---|---|
| LASIK | During LASIK surgery, a precision bladed device known as a microkeratome or an IntraLase® laser can be used to create a flap in the outer layer of the cornea. We use the advanced Intralase laser, which is associated with fewer complications. The flap is then peeled back, allowing the LASIK procedure to be performed. | Immediately after LASIK surgery, the hinged flap is closed and no sutures are required. In the days and weeks following LASIK, the incisions will heal on their own. | LASIK is more popular than PRK because it is associated with a faster recovery period. The corneal flap closes on its own and heals more quickly. Because of the reduced severity of side effects and quicker results, patients prefer this procedure when they qualify for it. |
| PRK | PRK does not involve the creation of a corneal flap. Instead, the outer layer of the cornea, known as the epithelial layer, is removed altogether to access the underlying corneal tissue. | After PRK surgery, we will place protective contact lenses in the eyes to assist with epithelial healing. A few days after your procedure, Dr. Chander will remove the contact lenses and the epithelial layer will continue to grow back and your eyes will continue to heal. | Because the epithelial layer must grow back after photorefractive keratectomy, the surgery requires a longer recovery time than LASIK surgery. However, it provides similarly excellent vision correction results and can help you if you're not a candidate for LASIK. |
Discuss Your Options With a Board-Certified Eye Doctor
It can be difficult to determine whether LASIK or PRK is best for your needs on your own. That's where Dr. Steven Chander comes in. He's been practicing out of our Chicago, IL, eye care office for nearly 30 years and has performed laser eye surgery for hundreds of patients. Dr. Chander is highly qualified to diagnose your condition, recommend the right course of treatment, and expertly perform your surgery so you can see life clearly.
Book a consultation with our eye doctor in Chicago to get the answers you need. Contact us online or call our Garfield Ridge office near Midway Airport at:
(773) 735-6090
"He wants the best for my eyes." Patients Are the Priority at Primary Eye Care Associates
Edith Vargas
Chicago, IL
2023
I love this place, Dr. Chander is the best, he always explains everything with a lot of details, he wants the best for my eyes.
View on GoogleRita Belmont
Chicago, IL
2023
Primary Care staff are so good and knowledgeable. But Dr Chander has been my Eye dr for over 20 yrs and he is the best. He helps you with whatever problem you may have with your eyes. Gives you the best recommendations.
View on GoogleWhat Happens During PRK Treatment? The Treatment Timeline
When you come to our practice in Garfield Ridge, just minutes from Midway Airport, for PRK surgery, you can expect the following:
PRK is remarkably quick—the procedure typically takes just minutes per eye, and you'll be able to return home immediately afterward.
How Can I Pay for My PRK Surgery?
Like LASIK surgery, insurance typically does not contribute to PRK treatment costs because it is considered elective. We ensure treatment remains accessible with:
Frequently Asked Questions About PRK Eye Surgery
I have dry eye syndrome. Is PRK an option for me?
Yes. PRK is still an appropriate option for many patients who struggle with chronic dry eye, but Dr. Chander will work with you to manage your symptoms before recommending a refractive procedure. You may also be pleased to learn that PRK is unlikely to cause or worsen long-term dry eye symptoms.Are you sure PRK surgery isn't painful?
Yes. The numbing eye drops administered before the procedure are extremely effective at blocking pain, and the anti-anxiety medication you'll receive beforehand is an added measure for your comfort. The most you'll feel during surgery is light pressure. While you'll likely experience some discomfort in the first few days afterward, we'll discuss which medications will be most effective to offset the effects.
How long will it be before I notice my results?
You'll probably notice some degree of improvement immediately after PRK. It's very common to experience some blurriness in the first few weeks of recovery, but this will fade. For most patients, full results become apparent within six to eight weeks.
How long will my results last?
Except for natural age-related changes to your vision, PRK is intended to provide permanent vision correction. According to the American Academy of Ophthalmology, roughly 90% of PRK patients enjoy 20/40 vision or better and no longer have to rely on contacts or glasses.
I've had cataract surgery before. Can I still get PRK?
Yes. Both PRK and LASIK are safe options for people who have previously undergone treatment for cataracts. You can also still receive cataract surgery even if you've previously had a refractive procedure.
"Great experience as always." See What Keeps Patients Coming Back
Kristen Roberts
Chicago, IL
2023
Great experience as always . They always take great care of my daughter too. I have been going here for 8 years and will continue to as long as Dr. Chandler is there.
View on GooglePatricia Garza
Chicago, IL
2023
Dr. Chander is always great! He's been my eye doc for last 20 yrs. He always has great advice and insigh. I love that he takes amazing care of my family!
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