PRK (Photorefractive Keratectomy) uses the excimer laser to treat low to moderate degrees of myopia and astigmatism. First, the epithelium, a thin layer of protective skin on the cornea is removed after the eye is anaesthetized. Next, the excimer laser beam is used to reshape the corneal surface so that light rays focus onto the retina. The epithelial defect heals over the next 24 to 48 hours.

PRK has been in use in the Singapore National Eye Centre since 1992 with excellent results. It is an extremely precise and accurate procedure, removing corneal tissue in increments of less than 0.25 microns per pulse of laser, or less than the thickness of a human hair. Although PRK is an excellent procedure, it is rapidly becoming less popular in light of the numerous advantages that LASIK offers.

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