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PhotoRefractive Keratectomy (PRK)
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Please note that a referral letter is required before an appointment can be confirmed.
Useful Information
About this service
Photorefractive keratectomy (PRK) is a type of laser eye surgery used to correct mild to moderate nearsightedness, farsightedness and/or astigmatism.
During PRK, a laser is used to reshape the cornea to correct vision errors. PRK is an option for patients whose corneas are too thin for LASIK.
Like other types of laser eye surgery, PRK works by reshaping the cornea using an excimer laser, which allows light to enter the eye to properly focus onto the retina for clear vision.
The laser used delivers a cool pulsating beam of ultraviolet light on to the surface of the cornea, not underneath the cornea, as in LASIK.
The entire outer layer of the cornea is removed. The excimer laser then reshapes the cornea to correct your refractive error.
Side effects may occur and may include:
- Mild discomfort in the first 24 to 48 hours after surgery
- Sensitivity to light
- Loss of best vision with or without glasses
- Mild glare
- Mild halos around images
- Recovery is slower as it takes a few days for cells to regenerate and cover the surface of the eye.
The eye centre at Mater Private is one of the few hospital based clinics in Ireland and continues to this day as one of the largest and most experienced centres in Ireland.
