Photorefractive keratectomy (PRK) is a type of laser eye surgery used to treat refractive vision problems, such as nearsightedness, farsightedness, and astigmatism. PRK is an alternative to LASIK surgery and involves reshaping the cornea using a laser to improve light focusing on the retina.

Unlike LASIK, PRK does not require creating a corneal flap. Instead, the outer layer of the cornea is removed, and the underlying tissue is reshaped using a laser. The procedure is less invasive than other types of laser surgeries and is a good option for patients with thin corneas or other factors that make them unsuitable candidates for LASIK.

Recovery time for PRK is longer than LASIK, and patients may experience some discomfort during the healing process, but it can be highly effective in improving vision.