PRK is the most common procedure utilizing the excimer laser. It is used to correct myopia, astigmatism, and hyperopia. With PRK, no scalpels are used and no incisions are made. The surgeon prepares the eye by gently removing the eye’s protective epithelium, (a layer of cells that naturally regenerates itself every few days) to reveal the next layer of corneal tissue known as Bowman's layer. Computer-controlled pulses of cool laser light are then applied to delicately reshape the curvature of the eye. Deeper cell layers remain virtually untouched. The whole PRK procedure itself is usually completed in less than five minutes and is painless. Since a layer about as slender as a human hair is typically removed, the cornea maintains its original strength. We are affiliated with Millennium Laser Eye Center in Mclean, Virginia, and VisionQuest Laser Eye Centers in Vienna follow the links below to learn more about them.