PRK (Photorefractive Keratectomy)

ASA or "advanced surface ablation" is an advanced form of PRK, or "photorefractive keratectomy," the predecessor to LASIK eye surgery. It is a type of vision correction surgery designed to treat nearsightedness (myopia), farsightedness (hyperopia), astigmatism, or presbyopia.

Transform Your Vision with PRK Surgery at Waring Vision Institute

If you currently rely on glasses or contact lenses, laser eye surgery can be truly transformative. PRK surgery effectively reshapes the cornea to enhance vision clarity. Dr. George Waring, Dr. Michael DeCourcey, and the professional staff at the Waring Vision Institute, have played pivotal roles in the development of modern vision correction treatments. Our clinic stands as a premier destination for advanced vision correction procedures.

What to Expect During ASA Laser Surgery

You may need to undergo the ASA procedure if you are not a candidate for LASIK, and have thinning corneas, corneal scarring or have a profession that is considered “high contact.” Your prescription for glasses or contacts should be stable for approximately 12 months before undergoing laser vision correction. In ASA surgery the epithelium, or the outer layer of the cornea, is gently removed. The surgeon will then use a special excimer (a specialized ultraviolet laser) to reshape the cornea. The treatment will fine-tune and fix small imperfections in the curvature of the cornea. The laser is extremely accurate and the procedure very quick. The surgery only takes about 10 minutes per eye and is relatively painless. The portion of the epithelium that was removed will grow back on its own within a few days while you wear a special bandage contact lens. A LASIK flap is not required in ASA, therefore, many people who were not candidates for LASIK may benefit from ASA.

Recovery After PRK

After the surgery is complete you will be evaluated briefly. Once you are cleared to leave, you will need to be driven home by a family member or friend. Some common side effects of the procedure are:

Mild pain or discomfort
Sensitivity to light
Glare or halos around objects or lights
Dry eyes
Difficulty seeing at night

Side effects are usually mild and can be managed with medication. It’s vital to the healing process to follow all aftercare instructions. Most clients can drive a vehicle within one to three weeks after surgery, but it can take up to a few months to restore clear and stable vision. The results of PRK surgery are remarkable. Most clients greatly reduce or even eliminate their need for glasses or contacts, and in some cases people enjoy better than 20/20 vision.

The staff was amazing! Very thorough and friendly. Was greeted by name with each follow up visit. Dr. Waring was very kind and knowledgeable. He explained every detail and makes you feel very comfortable. I had PRK 3 months ago and my results have been amazing.

Stefani A.

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Vision Correction in Charleston, SC

Dr. George Waring operates his ophthalmology practice in Charleston, SC. The Waring Vision Institute is deeply committed to providing exceptional client care, and both doctors are responsible for pioneering a range of advanced treatments for vision problems. Waring Vision is conveniently accessible from Mount Pleasant, Myrtle Beach, and Columbia, drawing clients from near and far, as The Waring Vision Institute stands as one of the nation's premier destinations for vision correction. Dr. Waring's and Dr. DeCourcey's combined expertise, utilization of advanced technologies, and comprehensive treatment options, along with their unwavering commitment to client care, make them leaders in the field. Dr. Waring was the first surgeon in the United States to perform high-speed ASA and PRK, and he was also the first surgeon in the state of South Carolina to conduct High Definition custom ASA and PRK procedures. Both doctors are internationally-recognized authorities in their field, offering clients the most advanced treatments for eye conditions, diseases, and vision correction.