Dr Boothe LASIK

Excimer Laser Photo Refractive Keratectomy, or PRK, is a type of laser eye surgery used to correct nearsightedness (myopia), farsightedness (hyperopia) and astigmatism. This procedure is mostly intended for those who have thin corneas or any other corneal abnormalities that make them not best suited for Lasik. FDA has approved this technology for the correction of myopia in 1995 and for the treatment of hyperopia in 1998.

The process of performing PRK on both eyes takes only around 5-10 minutes. Before the procedure Dr. Boothe will put some anesthetic drops in your eyes, thus you will not feel any pain or discomfort. During the PRK procedure, a special laser called excimer is used by the surgeon to remove central area of corneal epithelium. The main advantage of PRK over Lasik is that there is no corneal flap made, and that is why there is no risk of flap complications.

After the procedure you will be provided with eye drops and instructed by Dr. Boothe on how to properly use them. You will need them for a month or more, because your eyes may feel dry. Also you will have follow-up appointments after the procedure. The main disadvantage is that the PRK surgery generally has longer recovery time than Lasik and during that time your eyes will be sensitive.

The positive results of Photo Refractive Keratectomy are very high – after a year, 80 percent of nearsighted patients have 20/20 vision. Most others see a significant improvement in their vision. After two or three weeks you will be able to drive a car. Successfully treated PRK patients no longer need glasses or contact lenses.

Nowadays the PRK procedure is less popular than Lasik, and Dr. William Boothe prefers and recommends the Lasik correction because of the faster recovery and the more predictable outcomes after this procedure. The Boothe Eye Care and Laser Center offers a free initial screening if you want to know which procedure is right for you.