PRK (LASEK)

Laser vision correction surgery has helped millions of people improve their eyesight and no longer require glasses or contacts. One of the laser vision surgeries offered at Vold Vision is LASEK, also referred to as PRK.

LASEK allows patients with corneas too thin for LASIK or ocular conditions causing dry or itchy eyes to receive correction surgery. With recent breakthroughs, Dr. Vold and his team of talented eye surgeons work with each patient to determine if LASEK is the best choice for them.

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*Individual results may vary.

Since its introduction in the 1980s, PRK, or photorefractive keratectomy, has continued to evolve with technological advancements. As the procedure has transformed, the name has changed from PRK to LASEK (laser-assisted epithelial keratomileusis). 

They are essentially the same surgery with slight differences and advancements. At Vold Vision, we prefer to perform LASEK surgery and therefore use this term more often, though many patients still recognize the surgery by its name PRK. 

LASEK surgery improves the overall shape of the cornea to eliminate nighttime vision problems, such as halos. After LASEK surgery at Vold Vision, many patients can enjoy a life without glasses and contacts that can be uncomfortable or get in the way during certain activities and sports.

On the day of the patient’s LASEK surgery, the eyes will be cleaned and covered with sterile bandages before applying numbing eye drops. Most patients are comfortable with eye drops alone, but a sedative may be added to help with any anxiety or fear. 

After the eyes are numb, a holder will be placed to keep the eyelids open and prevent blinking during the treatment. The doctor will remove the protective covering, and the laser will fix your vision in less than a minute.

The epithelium of the eye is then treated with alcohol for about 30 seconds and temporarily detached from the underlying tissue. The laser treats the cornea, and the cells are put back into place. You may experience more blurriness for a few days, but the recovery period is shorter and more comfortable. 

After the surgery is complete, a temporary contact lens will act as a bandage to protect the eye and minimize discomfort. Patients should avoid sun exposure and other contaminants (dust, smoke, pollution) while their eyes heal.

LASEK and other laser vision correction surgeries can allow you to get rid of your glasses and contacts without the same risks as LASIK. Since LASEK/PRK does not create a cornea flap, there is less risk of injury-causing complications. The benefits of this procedure include:

  • Fast procedure
  • Less risk of complications than LASIK
  • Reduces or eliminates the need for corrective lenses
  • Less risk of dry eye
  • Cost-effective

While LASEK may seem daunting, the expense of a one-time correction compared to a lifetime of glasses or contacts is freeing. Vold Vision offers insurance, payment, and financial plans, which will be discussed at length during your private consultation. 

Most patients can return to work within four to five days, but light sensitivity may persist for four to six weeks. Full surgery results typically develop within one to three months after your surgery, but patients may see improvement for up to six months. After LASEK, most patients do not need glasses or contacts for most activities. 

As your eyes continue to age, some patients may develop presbyopia, a condition that makes it more difficult to focus on nearby objects. Reading glasses may be used as needed. Vold Vision also offers touch-ups or enhancement for free within one year of your laser vision surgery. After a year, you may receive discounts according to a pre-set schedule.

LASEK is a good option for patients over 18 who want to eliminate or reduce their use of glasses or contacts. Candidates for LASEK should have a stable eye prescription for at least one year and cannot have any other eye conditions or diseases. 

LASEK is best for those with thin corneas, dry eyes, or who participate in activities with a higher risk of injury. To know if you are a good candidate for LASEK, please schedule a consultation with Dr. Vold. If you are not a good candidate for LASEK, Dr. Vold will guide you through your options for your unique eye correction needs. 

Learn More About PRK

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LASEK (PRK) Procedure Animation

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Vold Vision – LASEK Testimonial by David

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Vold Vision – Katie – Laser Vision Correction Testimonial

Why Should I Go to Vold Vision for LASEK?

The board-certified ophthalmologists and eye surgeons at Vold Vision are pioneers in laser treatment, offering solutions depending on your unique vision needs. Dr. Vold is a multi-award-winning ophthalmologist with over 24 years of experience. Vold Vision always pushes for the best and fastest results in laser correction surgeries. 

Dr. Vold has patients from across the world travel to Northwest Arkansas for him to perform vision correction surgeries personally. To learn more about Vold Vision and our expertise in laser vision correction, read more about us.

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, PRK (LASEK), Vold Vision
, PRK (LASEK), Vold Vision
, PRK (LASEK), Vold Vision

Take the Next Step

To learn more about PRK, schedule a consultation with one of the providers at Vold Vision. Throughout your entire laser vision correction journey, you will have your very own Vold liaison to assist you with any questions you have. Our patient care counselors are available by text, phone, or email and no question is too small for them to answer. To schedule a consultation, fill out the consultation request form below, or call or text (479) 442-8653.

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