PRK Candidates
PRK (photorefractive keratectomy) allows patients to experience excellent vision without prescription glasses and contact lenses.
Assessing PRK candidacy is similar to determining if someone is a good candidate for LASIK. We take time to consider many factors.
Do you qualify for PRK with Dr. Andrew E. Holzman?
Say Goodbye to Glasses
PRK as a LASIK Alternative Weighing Vision Correction Options
Many PRK patients undergo the procedure because they are poor candidates for LASIK. In addition to the general criteria above, Dr. Holzman will consider these factors.
Corneas Too Thin for LASIK
PRK is ideal for people with thin corneas. Rather than creating a corneal flap as in LASIK, PRK involves the removal of the epithelial layer of the cornea. The epithelium will naturally heal and reform on its own during recovery.
Preventing Flap Complications
Patients who participate in contact sports or have jobs that may subject them to eye injuries may not be good candidates for LASIK due to the possibility of flap complications. These patients may be better candidates for PRK.
Poor Candidates for PRK Surgery
Currently Pregnant or Nursing
Women who are currently pregnant or nursing will need to wait to undergo PRK surgery. We'll offer insight into timing during the consultation process.Suffering from Dry Eye Syndrome
Dry eye is a common side effect of PRK and LASIK. People with dry eye syndrome should not undergo refractive surgery to prevent exacerbating the condition.Keratoconus and Eye Abnormalities
Keratoconus causes the cornea to become progressively thinner, altering eye shape. This and other corneal abnormalities prevent someone from undergoing PRK.Eye Problems and Health Issues
Many vision and medical conditions prevent people from undergoing PRK, including glaucoma, diabetes, arthritis, autoimmune diseases, and collagen vascular disease.Use of Certain Medications
Drugs such as Imitrex®, Accutane®, Cordarone®, and steroids interfere with the healing process. PRK should only be performed after discontinued medication use.Assessing PRK Candidacy Patient-Centered Care
Whether you're interested in PRK or LASIK, Dr. Holzman and his team put your needs first. When you visit one of our locations in Washington, DC, Virginia, or Maryland for a free consultation, here's what you can expect:
During your free consultation, Dr. Holzman will perform a full examination of your eyes. In addition to checking the health and thickness of the corneas, he will go over your medical history and personal vision correction goals.
During your free consultation, we'll answer any questions and discuss all of your concerns. Feel free to ask Dr. Holzman about pricing compared to contact lenses, post-op side effects, risks, or anything else.
5-Star Laser Vision Correction by an Experienced Eye Surgeon
Rick Cockrill
2020
Had my surgery Wednesday and was immediately seeing so much better. As they say, the first 48 hours it fluctuates, bit no pain nor discomfort and my vision is stabilizing with amazing clarity! Dr. Holzman kept me cool, calm, and collected the whole time, and it was so fast you wouldn't even know it happened. Very appreciative I finally went ahead and did it!
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Stacy Mayville
2019
I have been wearing glasses/contacts for over 27 years and have been debating on LASIK for quite some time until listening to my husband after he went for his consult. Then he showed me Dr. Holzman's web site and I knew I would be in safe hands and have no worries. The whole staff knew what they were talking about and very friendly with loads of expertise. I knew if I truly wasn't a candidate they would let me know. I then knew they weren't in it for the money. They just wanted to do the right thing for the patient. They recommended me for the PRK instead of LASIK. My healing process has been a little longer but each day is getting better and the hassle of no glasses or contacts is well worth it. Everything they have told me to expect have been true to their every word and to have patience. They give you the drops for a reason. I highly recommend their office!
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