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AdvancedSurf Laser (PRK) in Saskatoon

Laser vision correction with no corneal flap.

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What is ASL (PRK)?

AdvancedSurf Laser (PRK) corrects nearsightedness and astigmatism by reshaping the front surface of the cornea, the clear window at the front of your eye. The thin outer layer is removed first (with a no-touch laser technique when suitable), the laser reshapes the surface, and the outer layer grows back naturally over several days. It’s done with numbing drops and takes about 10 to 15 minutes per eye.

Why Dr. Conlon recommends ASL (PRK)

Surface laser is one of the longest-established forms of laser vision correction. In Dr. Conlon’s clinical experience, it offers a high degree of safety, and avoiding a flap makes it the safer choice for most of his patients.

  • No flap. Because no flap is cut, the flap-related complications of LASIK can’t occur: a flap shifting or dislodging after an eye injury, even years later; wrinkles in the flap; or cells growing in under the flap.
  • Stronger cornea. Because no flap is cut, more of the cornea’s natural strength is preserved. This lowers the risk of the cornea weakening and bulging over time (called ectasia), a rare but serious complication after LASIK.
  • Often preferred for thinner corneas, and for active lifestyles or contact sports.

This is a recommendation, not a guarantee. LASIK remains an option for some patients, and we’ll decide together at your consultation.

For referring doctors: Dr. Conlon recommends AdvancedSurf Laser (PRK) for most suitable patients. With no flap, flap complications can’t occur, and more corneal strength is preserved, which lowers the risk of ectasia. LASIK remains an option for some patients.

The honest trade-offs

  • The first few days are uncomfortable, with light sensitivity and watering. A soft bandage contact lens protects the eye for about a week.
  • You’ll use eye drops for a period while your eye heals.
  • Plan for about one week off work and no driving until we’ve checked your vision.
  • Vision improves over days to weeks and can take up to about three months to settle.

Risks

Like LASIK, ASL (PRK) can cause dry eye, glare or halos, infection, and under- or over-correction, which may need glasses or further treatment. It also has a small risk of corneal haze. Your individual risks are discussed at your consultation.

Is ASL (PRK) right for me?

Only a full assessment can tell. In general, ASL (PRK) treats nearsightedness from -1.00 to -10.00 with up to 6.00 D of astigmatism (not farsightedness), in adults 18 and over with a stable prescription and healthy eyes.

Cost

ASL (PRK) at Conlon Eye Institute: $2,200 per eye, all-in. That includes your assessment, the surgery, your eye drops, the bandage lens and your follow-up visits.

Follow-up visits: day 1 at Dr. Conlon’s office; at 1 week with Dr. Conlon or your optometrist, depending on your co-management arrangement; then at 1, 3, 6 and 12 months.

Enhancements for life, with conditions

Financing is available through Medicard, from $70 a month. Laser vision correction is not covered by Saskatchewan Health.

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Dr. M. Ronan Conlon has 30 years of experience in refractive surgery and more than 40,000 refractive procedures.

Consultations are free.

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