Treatment
Laser Eye Surgery
Advanced surface laser treatments including PRK and LASEK. Ideal for patients with thinner corneas or those unsuitable for LASIK, offering excellent visual outcomes.
Overview
Understanding the Procedure
Surface laser treatments — including PRK (Photorefractive Keratectomy) and LASEK (Laser Epithelial Keratomileusis) — offer an excellent alternative to LASIK for patients who may not be suitable for flap-based procedures. At K Vision Centre, Miss Tina Khanam has extensive experience in both techniques.
Unlike LASIK, surface treatments do not require the creation of a corneal flap. Instead, the outer layer of the cornea (epithelium) is gently removed before the excimer laser reshapes the underlying tissue. The epithelium naturally regenerates over 3–5 days, during which a soft bandage contact lens protects the eye.
PRK and LASEK are particularly well-suited for patients with thinner corneas, those with occupations involving contact sports or physical activity, and patients whose corneal topography makes LASIK less suitable. The long-term visual outcomes are equivalent to LASIK.
Miss Khanam uses the latest wavefront-optimised excimer laser technology, combined with cooling systems and precise ablation profiles, to maximise comfort and visual quality. Each treatment is individually planned based on detailed corneal mapping.
Benefits
What This Means for You
- No corneal flap — ideal for active lifestyles and thinner corneas
- Equivalent long-term visual outcomes to LASIK
- Lower risk of flap-related complications
- Suitable for a wider range of corneal profiles
- Proven technique with decades of clinical evidence
Our Approach
Consultant-Led Care
Miss Khanam performs a thorough pre-operative evaluation to determine whether PRK or LASEK is the optimal surface treatment for your eyes. This includes detailed corneal mapping, tear film assessment, and discussion of your lifestyle and visual goals.
Post-operative care is particularly important with surface treatments, and Miss Khanam provides close follow-up during the healing period to ensure the best possible outcome.
Suitability
Is This Right for You?
- Patients with thinner corneas unsuitable for LASIK
- Those in contact sports or physical occupations
- Adults with stable prescriptions seeking laser correction
- Patients with mild to moderate myopia, hyperopia, or astigmatism
Common Questions
Frequently Asked Questions
The main difference is that PRK does not involve creating a corneal flap. The surface layer is removed and the laser is applied directly. This makes PRK better for thinner corneas and active patients, but recovery takes a few days longer as the surface heals.
The bandage contact lens is removed after 3–5 days once the surface has healed. Vision improves progressively over 2–4 weeks. Most patients can drive within 1–2 weeks and vision continues to sharpen over 1–3 months.
There is more discomfort during the first 2–3 days compared to LASIK, typically described as a gritty or watery sensation. Pain relief drops and oral medication are provided to manage this. After the surface heals, discomfort resolves completely.
PRK may actually cause less long-term dry eye than LASIK because no corneal flap is created. The corneal nerves, which are cut during LASIK flap creation, are preserved with surface treatments. Temporary dryness during healing is normal.
Quick Facts
Duration
10–15 minutes per eye
Anaesthesia
Anaesthetic eye drops
Recovery
3–5 days for initial healing, 2–4 weeks for vision to stabilise
Pain Level
Mild discomfort
Guide Price
per eye, including consultation and follow-up
A detailed quote will be provided following your consultation.
View All FeesReady to Learn More?
Take our quick suitability quiz or book a consultation to discuss your options with your consultant.
Related
Understanding Your Condition
Learn more about the conditions this treatment addresses. Knowledge is the first step toward confident decision-making.
Take the Next Step
Book a consultation to discuss Laser Eye Surgery with your consultant. Transparent advice, no pressure, and a personalised plan for your vision.