PRK

Photorefractive keratectomy or PRK, which has been established for four years, is the form of refractive surgery that introduced the laser. In PRK, an ultraviolet light beam, or laser is used to gently reshape the outer layer of the cornea. The procedure takes about five minutes to complete. The visual recovery time is usually two to four weeks, while the average time before going back to work is three days. Most people report mild irritation, along with light sensitivity, and watering eyes for a brief period. Because of PRK's slow recovery time and moderate postoperative discomfort it has essentially been replaced by LASIK.