Surface excimer laser treatments include:
- Photorefractive keratectomy (PRK)
- Laser epithelial keratomileusis (LASEK)
- Epi-LASIK
Surface excimer laser treatments make up about 20% of all excimer laser surgery worldwide. PRK is the original excimer laser technique. It was first done worldwide in 1987 and in New Zealand in 1992. The first PRK procedures in the South Island were done by Dr Kent in January 1997. Personalised, wavefront-guided surface excimer laser treatments began at Fendalton Eye Clinic in 2002 with excellent results.
Surface treatments are indicated for anyone with a thin cornea, with a cornea that does not have a symmetrical shape or anyone at high risk of eye injury.