Thinking about ditching glasses or contacts? At Clearview Eye Centre in Calgary, Dr. Yau and team focus on advanced PRK (Photorefractive Keratectomy) laser eye surgery, a flap-free approach chosen for precision and patient comfort. This quick guide walks you through how the procedure works, who it suits, what recovery looks like, and what to expect for costs.

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Why Laser Eye Surgery is Still the Gold Standard

Laser vision correction has been refined for more than 35 years. Outcomes keep improving with each generation of lasers and scanners, and some patients see even better than 20/20. The most common feedback is, “I wish I would have done it sooner.”

What is PRK?

PRK (photorefractive keratectomy) is a surface laser vision procedure. The epithelium is gently removed, and an excimer laser reshapes the cornea to correct nearsightedness, farsightedness, and astigmatism. There is no corneal flap in PRK, and a protective bandage contact lens is placed while the surface heals.

Why it matters for Clearview: PRK aligns with the clinic’s flap-free approach and dry-climate considerations, while delivering modern laser outcomes when you are a good candidate.

What it helps: nearsightedness, farsightedness, and astigmatism, when you are a good candidate.

Why Clearview Eye Centre Performs PRK, Not LASIK

Clearview Eye Centre performs advanced PRK only and does not perform LASIK. Calgary is the driest major city in North America, and surface treatment helps reduce the chance of dry eye after surgery. PRK also removes any possibility of flap complications. The trade-off is about two days of discomfort during early healing. It is the approach Dr. Yau chose for himself for safety.

Long-Term Benefits to Know

  • Many patients enjoy long-lasting freedom from glasses or contacts.
  • The clinic notes potential advantages later in life, such as not needing to line up for cataract surgery and having added protection against future glaucoma.
  • Results vary by individual. Your surgeon will review your personal risk profile.

Potential Risks

All surgery has risks. With PRK, the most common short-term issues are dryness, light sensitivity, glare or halos at night, and temporary blur while the surface heals. Less common risks include under- or over-correction and the need for an enhancement. Your care team will explain these clearly and show how aftercare reduces risk.

What to Expect on Surgery Day at Clearview Eye Centre

  • Both eyes are typically treated in about 20 minutes.
  • You receive numbing drops and comfort medications as needed.
  • Many patients report good vision and no pain within hours.
  • You leave with a detailed drop schedule, protective eyewear, and written aftercare.

Expected Recovery Timeline at Clearview Eye Centre

First 48 hours: Expect discomfort or a gritty feeling. Rest, hydrate, and use prescribed drops.

Days 3 to 7: Comfort improves. Vision clears progressively. Your bandage contact lens is removed when the surface is ready.

Weeks 2 to 6: Vision sharpens and stabilizes. Dryness and light sensitivity keep improving.

Follow-ups: The team checks healing, updates activity guidelines, and confirms when to resume workouts, swimming, makeup, and screen time.

Is Advanced PRK Right for You?

You may be a good candidate if you are 18 or older with a stable prescription, healthy corneas, and realistic goals. PRK is often preferred for thinner corneas, dryness concerns, or active lifestyles where a flap would be less ideal. A comprehensive consultation at Clearview Eye Centre will confirm your options and tailor a plan.

Costs and Monthly Payments with Beautifi

Pricing depends on your prescription and treatment plan. Many patients choose Beautifi to spread the cost into clear monthly payments with a quick online application and no prepayment penalties. Ask the team for a written cost summary and your payment options.

Apply Now and Get Pre-Approved

No impact to your credit score. Terms 6 months to 6 years. Up to $50,000. Takes 3 minutes to apply.

FAQs: PRK at Clearview Eye Centre

Will it hurt?

You may feel pressure during treatment, then a scratchy sensation for about two days while the surface heals. Numbing drops and medications help keep you comfortable.

How quickly will I see better?

Many patients notice good vision within hours, then progressive clarity over the next days and weeks.

Will I still need glasses later?

Most patients gain freedom from glasses for distance. Reading glasses may be needed later in life due to presbyopia.

When can I workout or wear makeup?

Light activity is usually fine after your first check. Avoid eye rubbing, water exposure to the eyes, and eye makeup until your surgeon clears you.

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