PRK, or Photorefractive keratectomy, was the first FDA approved surgical procedure developed to reshape the cornea using a laser.
The PRK Experience:
PRK uses the same laser beam to reshape or correct the shape of the eye as in LASIK. The major difference between LASIK and PRK is the depth at which the cornea is treated.

With LASIK, a flap is created in the top layer, folded back to allow the reshaping of the underlying tissue, and put back into position at the end of the procedure. This flap serves as a natural bandage for the cornea. The flap self sticks and serves as a natural bandage for the cornea.

With PRK, the laser reshapes the cornea after removing the surface layer of tissue, called the epithelium. A corneal flap is not created.

After reshaping the corneal tissue, the epithelium heals through the natural healing process. With PRK no corneal flap is created, so the surgeon usually places a bandage contact lens on the eye to reduce discomfort. This lens is usually removed on the third or fourth post-operative day. Generally, there is more discomfort with PRK than with LASIK, although this typically only lasts a few days and is very mild.

PRK allows some patients with thinner corneas and/or other abnormalities to have laser vision correction in cases where LASIK might be impossible. Whether you should have PRK or LASIK is based on your individual diagnosis, and you should consult your doctor to determine the procedure best suited for you.