Precision Laser Eye Surgery is one type of laser eye surgery, along with LASIK. Precision surgery, or photorefractive keratectomy PRK is a procedure that is performed using local anesthetic eyedrops. This corrective procedure removes miniscule amounts of tissue from the cornea using a computer-controlled laser beam, effectively reshaping this critical part of the eye. This laser beam is so accurate each beam pulse can remove about 40 millionths of a tissue inch in 12 billionths of a second.

The patient's eye is measured before Precision surgery begins to establish the degree of the visual disorder. A map of the eye's surface is constructed as well. The required change for the cornea is measured using this information and then input into the laser's computer. This procedure lasts for only a few minutes and recovery time can take up to three days. However, there's no guarantee that the patient will no longer need corrective lenses. Some side effects include seeing a halo or a glare surrounding lights but these should not be a cause of concern as they disappear eventually.

According to the Food and Drugs Administration of the United States, clinical studies have shown that some patients still had need to wear glasses following precision laser eye surgery while others needed glasses only occasionally, as when reading or driving. Additionally, many patients have reported experiencing blurry vision after undergoing surgery. This is a part of the normal healing process, however, and should not be taken to mean that the procedure was unsuccessful.

It is important to note, however, that laser surgery is not for everybody. Yes surgery can meet freedom from the constraints posed by wearing glasses and contact lenses but dramatic results should not be expected by everybody. Laser surgery should not be considered as a one-time big-time foolproof miracle cure all for bad eyesight. In fact, some doctors say that some patients report as having worse eyesight after going through surgery. There are many reasons why this happens. Some individuals are just not suited for laser surgery. These include people who heal slowly and those who have various medical conditions such as diabetes or glaucoma. It is essential, therefore, to have a thorough consultation with your doctor before undergoing laser surgery. Additionally, people with autoimmune and vascular diseases should refrain from undergoing laser surgery. The refraction of the eyes of women may change during her pregnancy so pregnant women should avoid this as well.