When most people think about laser eye surgery, they picture LASIK. It’s widely known and often the first option suggested. But not everyone qualifies for it, and others simply want an alternative with fewer long-term risks. In many cities, including San Francisco, patients are being steered toward another route—PRK.
Photorefractive Keratectomy (PRK) is an older procedure that still holds value today, especially for those with unique eye conditions or active lifestyles. It reshapes the eye’s surface without creating a flap, making it different from LASIK in ways that matter.
So, if you’ve been told you’re not an ideal LASIK candidate, or if you’re exploring options that fit your long-term vision goals, here are six reasons PRK could be a smarter and safer fit. Keep reading!
1. Safer for Thin Corneas
Not all eyes are the same. Some people have thinner corneas that don’t support the flap creation required in LASIK. PRK avoids this step completely. It works on the outer surface of the eye, removing the epithelium before reshaping the cornea. This makes it safer for people with thin or irregular corneal thickness. For these patients, PRK can offer clear results without increasing structural risk. It gives surgeons more flexibility while still aiming for the same visual improvement.
2. Ideal for High-Impact Lifestyles
If your life involves contact sports, outdoor activities, or unpredictable work environments, PRK might be a better match. Since it doesn’t involve a flap, there’s nothing that can shift or tear from blunt impact. Even clinics offering PRK in San Francisco often recommend this method to athletes, first responders, and military personnel. In these cases, a surface-based correction ensures long-term durability and avoids possible complications from physical contact. Practices specializing in this procedure take care to adjust treatments to each person’s environment and lifestyle.
3. Fewer Flap-Related Complications
Flap complications are rare in LASIK, but they can still occur. This includes issues like flap wrinkles, detachment, or infection beneath the surface. PRK removes this risk altogether by skipping the flap creation. That makes it a better choice for those looking to minimize potential side effects. Surgeons often choose PRK for patients with eye shapes or conditions that may interfere with flap healing. It’s a way to reduce variables while still aiming for strong results.
4. Possibly Lower Risk of Dry Eye Symptoms
Dry eyes are one of the most common side effects of laser vision correction. Some patients notice discomfort that lasts beyond the typical healing period. Since PRK doesn’t disturb as many corneal nerves as LASIK, it may lead to fewer issues related to tear production. This can make a difference for people who already have mild dryness or who spend long hours on screens. PRK offers a path forward that takes surface healing into account without adding stress to tear function.
5. A Go-To Option for Re-Treatments or Complex Cases
PRK isn’t just for first-time patients. It’s also used in cases where someone has had LASIK before but needs a touch-up. If there’s not enough tissue for a second flap, or if the eye has changed over time, PRK can safely reshape the surface again. It’s also a good fit for people who’ve had corneal surgery in the past and need a precise correction. Doctors choose it when LASIK isn’t viable, giving patients a way to improve their vision without compromising eye health.
6. Delivers Long-Term Results Comparable to LASIK
While PRK healing may take a bit longer, the final outcome is often just as effective as LASIK. Most patients reach 20/20 or near-perfect vision over time. The initial few days of discomfort are balanced by the long-term stability it offers. For many, it’s a worthwhile tradeoff. What matters is that the method works well with their eyes, their healing response, and their goals. If you’re looking at long-term clarity over quick recovery, PRK stands as a strong alternative.
What to Look for in a Vision Correction Clinic
Key factors that can help you choose the right place for your eye surgery. Read below:
– Check if the surgeon is board-certified and specializes in refractive eye surgery.
– Request what technology they utilize—ensure they utilize the latest FDA-approved lasers.
– Get their success rates and read independent patient feedback.
– Determine whether or not they do a thorough pre-surgery assessment, such as corneal mapping.
– Request the overall fee, including follow-ups, drugs, and boost treatments.
– Ensure they provide open-book post-op treatment and are available for check-ups during
Conclusion
PRK isn’t exactly the most glamorous option, but it’s a better one for the majority of individuals. If you were advised that LASIK isn’t the best, or you just prefer a procedure that more easily integrates into your life, PRK is an option. Consult with an experienced practitioner who can walk you through your choices and assist in determining what’s in your best interest for your eyes—now and in the future.