Photorefractive Keratectomy (PRK)

Delta Eye Medical Group’s Laser Vision Correction Center provides PRK as a LASIK alternative at all of our locations (Stockton, Tracy & Lodi)!

Photorefractive keratectomy (PRK) is an ophthalmologic procedure that reshapes the corneal curvature with an excimer laser to optimize the refractive ability of the patient’s eye. PRK permanently changes the shape of the cornea. The surgery is performed using topical anesthetics (eyedrops). The ultraviolet light beam of the excimer laser is used to vaporize tiny amounts of tissue, one microscopic layer at a time, much like removing a few pages of a book. This process is computer controlled, and software-driven. The result is a change in the corneal curvature (shape), thereby reducing or correcting your nearsightedness and/or astigmatism. PRK was approved by the United States Food and Drug Administration (FDA) in 1995, becoming the first FDA-approved corneal refractive surgery. Shortly after, the FDA approved laser-assisted in situ keratomileusis (LASIK), a similar refractive surgery requiring a flap of corneal tissue to be made prior to laser correction rather than a removal of corneal tissue as in PRK. Although LASIK has a faster recovery period many patients still undergo PRK due to its ability to correct the surface of the cornea without requiring a flap of tissue to be made. As opposed to LASIK, PRK allows for a broader scope of patients with thinner corneas to be eligible for surgery and decreases the possibility of flap complications. Both methods have comparable long-term results and some studies have even shown them to be equivalent at 1-6 months.

Diagram showing the steps of Photorefractive Keratectomy (PRK) surgery
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What our Patients Say

‍A few years ago, I decided to have laser eye surgery to correct my lifelong problem with nearsightedness.  Before that I always wore glasses or contacts.  I remember having frequent problems with contacts which would lead to problems with sunglasses or diving masks and the like.  when I chose to have eye surgery, I decided to go with Dr. Narvaez.  As a surgeon myself, I knew of his reputation and we had some patients in common and I was always impressed by his work.  Therefore, the choice was clear to me even though I knew many other Doctors who could do the procedure. After the procedure, I had excellent vision.  I love my new vision and enjoy being glasses and contacts free.  Dr. Narvaez is an excellent surgeon and I highly recommend him.

John Y. Kim, M.D.

Head and Neck Surgeon

What our Patients Say

I endorse my ophthalmologist, Julio Narvaez, MD.I have known him since moving to Loma Linda University in 2010.I was referred to him by a trusted friend and Ophthalmologist and was his patient; he is caring, bright and understood the problem and how I needed to be treated. He explained my options and allowed me to feel I had chosen my treatment while gently steering me the right direction. He was flexible when I asked to have my choice of anesthesia, which was local without sedation. He was not bothered by my continuous alertness during the surgery.

He is a bright and flexible surgeon, who makes excellent personal decisions and keeps perspective in his work and life.I would happily return to him for more care when needed.I endorse him without reservation and am glad to consider him a friend and colleague. Sincerely,

Dean A Hadley, MD Loma Linda University

Associate Professor of Urology, President of the Western Section of the American Urological Society

What our Patients Say

It’s amazing to have new technology nowadays. Previously, I had worn eyeglasses for over 35 years. After having Symfony lenses implanted into both eyes, it’s a wonderful feeling to be able to read almost everything without glasses. All the worries and fears prior to the surgery were for nothing. It’s awesome; my vision is clearer and better!  I’m so grateful to have a very good, knowledgeable, and hardworking team. My experiences with you will forever be in my heart. God is so good. He will always guide me all the way.

Lilia

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