PRK Laser Eye Surgery
WHAT IS PRK LASER EYE SURGERY?
PRK Laser Eye Surgery
PRK (Photo-Refractive Keratectomy) is one of the original forms of laser vision correction. Unlike LASIK, no corneal flap is created. Instead, the laser is applied directly to the surface of the cornea after the thin outer layer (epithelium) is removed, either manually or by laser (transepithelial PRK). The cornea is then reshaped with the excimer laser to correct your prescription.
After surgery, a clear, temporary “bandage” contact lens is placed over the eye to protect it during healing. The epithelium naturally regenerates over several days, adapting to the new corneal shape.
Although recovery can be longer compared to LASIK or SMILE, PRK remains a safe and effective option for many patients, particularly those who are not suited to other procedures.
Who is PRK Suitable For?
PRK is often recommended for patients with thinner corneas, irregular corneal shapes, or those not suitable for LASIK or SMILE. It remains a safe, reliable procedure with excellent results for the right candidates. Dr Phillip McGeorge has performed thousands of laser procedures, including PRK, and will provide expert guidance to determine the best option for your eyes.
Benefits of PRK Laser Eye Surgery
01
PRK does not require a corneal flap, making it suitable for patients with thin or irregular corneas or those not wanting LASIK.
02
PRK delivers proven, long-term results, with more than three decades of safe use worldwide.
03
The procedure avoids potential flap-related complications, such as displacement in active sports like boxing.
04
PRK provides precise correction for short-sightedness, long-sightedness, and astigmatism.
05
It is a strong option for active lifestyles or occupations where the risk of eye trauma is higher.
How is PRK Laser Eye Surgery performed?
At Perth Laser Vision, PRK is performed using advanced excimer laser technology.
- Anaesthetic eye drops are applied to numb the eye.
- The thin surface layer of the cornea (epithelium) is gently removed either manually or by laser.
- The excimer laser precisely reshapes the exposed corneal surface to correct your vision.
- A soft ‘bandage” contact lens is placed on the eye to protect it and support comfort while healing.
The entire procedure typically takes less than 15 minutes for both eyes.
Why choose Dr Phillip McGeorge at Perth Laser Vision?
When it comes to your vision, experience and trust matter most. At Perth Laser Vision, you’ll be cared for by Dr Phillip McGeorge, one of Australia’s most experienced laser eye surgeons, and a dedicated team committed to delivering the very best outcomes.
Perth Laser Vision has consistently led the way in eye surgery, with groundbreaking achievements and firsts in WA, including:
- Over 30,000 laser eye surgeries – more than any other surgeon in Australia
- SMILE lenticule extraction
- Bladeless femtosecond LASIK
- Multifocal implant surgery
- PanOptix Pro Trifocal lenses to reduce dependence on reading glasses
- Corneal inlays for keratoconus treatment
- Rapid (3-minute) corneal cross-linking for keratoconus
With a proven record of innovation and results, you can feel confident knowing your vision is in the most experienced hands.
FAQs
Is PRK painful?
No, you won’t feel any pain during the surgery, thanks to anaesthetic drops, but while the surface heals following surgery there will be some discomfort, light sensitivity, blur and watering for several days.
How long does PRK recovery take?
Healing after PRK takes a little longer than LASIK or SMILE. The epithelium regrows over 4-7 days, during which time vision may be blurred and some discomfort should be expected. Antibiotic eye drops are necessary to prevent infection.
Most patients notice steady vision improvement over the first week, with sharper vision continuing to develop over several weeks.
You’ll have follow-up appointments to ensure your eyes are healing well. Dr Phillip McGeorge and the Perth Laser Vision team are available to support you throughout your recovery.
Can PRK treat astigmatism?
Yes, PRK can correct short-sightedness, long-sightedness, and astigmatism in suitable patients.
Is laser eye surgery covered by Medicare?
Unfortunately, the Federal Government has determined that laser eye surgery will not be covered by Medicare as it is considered a lifestyle surgery. It is covered to a variable extent by some private health insurances, including Bupa, Medibank, AHM, Defence Health, Navy Health and HBF. We also provide finance options.
How much is laser eye surgery?
As every eye is unique, the extent of your surgery requirements will determine your exact costs. After an assessment to determine your needs, we will provide you with a quote for surgery. An initial assessment including refraction and consultation costs $200.
A referral is not necessary, but Medicare will provide a higher rebate ($84.15) if you obtain a referral from your GP or an optometrist. If no written referral is provided, Medicare will only provide a rebate of around $21.00 on consultations.
At Perth Laser Vision, laser eye surgery generally costs around $6,900 for both eyes. Most private health funds do not cover laser eye surgery. It’s best to check directly with your health fund.
Related blogs
How Painful is Corneal Crosslinking? How Do I Reduce the Pain?
Laser Eye Surgery PRK vs LASIK: Key Differences and How to Choose
SMILE vs LASIK Eye Surgery: What’s the Difference and Which is Best For You?
Get in touch
Trust your vision with Perth’s most experienced Laser Eye Surgeon, Dr Phillip McGeorge.
MURDOCH
SJOG Murdoch Medical Clinic
Suite 55, 100 Murdoch Drive
Murdoch WA 6150
SUBIACO
28 Churchill Ave
Subiaco WA 6008
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