Woman smiling after recovery from PRK procedure

PRK

Are you tired of struggling with contacts or glasses but have been told you aren't a good candidate for LASIK? Photorefractive keratectomy (PRK) is an alternative to LASIK that corrects the refractive errors. Dr. Walter Choate can perform PRK in his Goodlettsville, TN, office to correct your vision and eliminate your need for contacts.

Ready To See Clearly? Contact Our Nashville-Area Practice

PRK can allow you to finally ditch contact lenses and glasses. It's the best alternative for patients who are not good candidates for LASIK. Dr. Choate is an experienced optometrist, skilled at perfecting his Tennessee patients' vision through PRK. Contact our practice in Goodlettsville today to request a consultation.

Outstanding Results The Majority of Patients Have Excellent Vision Following PRK

What Can PRK Correct? Everything LASIK Can

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Photorefractive keratectomy is an eye surgery that uses a laser to reshape the cornea, correcting nearsightedness (myopia), farsightedness (hyperopia), and astigmatism.

An Eye Doctor You Can Trust Contact Our Nashville-area Office Today

Eye surgery can be intimidating. You want to be sure you have an experienced optometrist perform your surgery. Dr. Choate is board-certified in the treatment and management of eye diseases and has been practicing for over 40 years. He also serves as an FDA investigator for new contact lenses, pharmaceuticals, and ophthalmic equipment. As a result, the practice enjoys the distinction of being the first in the south to offer patients many new technologies before they are available to other doctors. Our practice is one of the most highly respected eye care practices in the state of Tennessee.

If you live in the Nashville area and are ready to ditch your contacts or glasses, turn to the team at our Goodlettsville, TN, optometrist's office today to schedule your laser eye surgery consultation.

(615) 851-7575

Dr. Choate

See Why Nashville, Tennessee Loves Our Office

1

Brittany Russell

Goodlettsville, TN

2024

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Everyone at the front desk is so kind. Dr Choate is very knowledgeable and I definitely trust him with my eye care. I’ve been struggling with a few eye issues and he knew exactly what to do. Also the lady that helps pick out frames is awesome. She’s always kind and helpful. 10/10 would recommend.

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1

Michael King

Goodlettsville, TN

2024

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Dr Choate and his staff at Choate Eye Associates were friendly, informative, and effective. Dr Choate matched exam results with custom glasses and contact lens options to meet my lifestyle and needs. Very thorough exam and discussion.

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What Causes Refractive Errors And How Does PRK Correct Them?

The Cause

Refractive errors are caused by an irregularly shaped cornea that incorrectly filters light to the eye. The cornea can be irregularly shaped in different ways resulting in either nearsightedness, farsightedness, or astigmatism. 

The Correction

PRK uses a laser to reshape your cornea, allowing light to filter properly through your eye. Dr. Choate will reshape your cornea based on your refractive error to give you perfect vision that lasts. 

Am I a Candidate For Photorefractive Keratectomy Surgery?

Your first step is to make a consultation at our office near Nashville in Goodlettsville, TN. There, Dr. Choate will go over your medical and optical history to determine if you are a good candidate for PRK. If you have been turned away from LASIK, there is a good chance you will be a good candidate for PRK.

Thin Cornea

Because LASIK requires a flap to be made from the outer layer of your cornea, those with thin corneas are typically not recommended for that surgery. PRK is a great alternative for those with thin corneas because it removes the epithelial layer without the need for a flap.

Active Lifestyle

For those who live an active lifestyle or participate in contact sports like boxing, PRK is usually the preferred form of surgery. Since LASIK creates a flap, an injury or blow to your eye can dislodge that flap and create further complications.

Previous Surgery

If you have previously had laser surgery and require additional vision correction, PRK might be the best option for you as it can fine-tune your vision.

What To Expect During PRK Surgery

The first step is to call our Goodlettsville office to schedule your consultation. Dr. Choate will examine your eyes, go over your medical history and see if you are a good fit for PRK. Your procedure will be completed at our Nashville-area office.

Many patients report feeling no pain or discomfort after PRK surgery.
Many patients report feeling no pain or discomfort after PRK surgery.

Anesthesia

Our eye surgeon will administer anesthetic eye drops to numb your eyes. You should not feel any pain during the procedure.

Placing the Speculum

Our eye surgeon will use a speculum and suction ring to ensure your eye stays open throughout the procedure.

Accessing the Cornea

Our eye surgeon will use a special tool to remove the epithelial layer to access the underlying cornea.

Reshaping the Cornea

Through the use of an excimer laser, an eye surgeon will reshape your cornea to correct your specific refractive error.

Healing Contact Lens

Once the excimer laser portion is complete, our eye surgeon will place the healing contact lens. This will be worn for several days after surgery to protect your eye and promote corneal healing.

"The best eye doctor!" Choate Eye Associates Has Hundreds of 5-Star Reviews

"Excellent service, welcoming environment and a very friendly staff. The best eye doctor!"

Gregory Crofton, 2024

PRK Recovery The Dos and Don'ts After Surgery

You should notice your vision correction immediately following surgery. However, there are steps you need to take to ensure proper healing and a lasting outcome.

Don't Touch

You should avoid touching or rubbing your eyes following the PRK procedure. Disturbing the eye area can lead to infection and further complications.

Don't Strain

It is important to avoid squinting or straining your eyes following PRK surgery. You should avoid sunlight and wear protective eyewear when outside.

Don't Swim

You should avoid going into pools or bodies of water following surgery to prevent infection.

Don't Exercise

Physical activity should be paused for a few days while recovering from PRK. Contact sports should be avoided for at least a few weeks.

Do Use Prescription Eye Drops

Use your prescription eye drops as directed. These will be important for you to prevent developing an infection.

Do Use Lubricating Eye Drops

Use over-the-counter lubricating eye drops as needed to prevent dry eye.

Do Take Vitamins

It is recommended that omega-3 supplements be taken following surgery to promote healing and healthy eyes.

Seeing Clearly The Time it Takes To Recover From PRK

Smiling couple
You will notice a change in your vision immediately following PRK surgery. However, it could take up to six months for your vision to completely stabilize. Most PRK patients can resume normal, daily activities within 24 hours.

What Are the Risks Of PRK Surgery

Some patients may experience mild discomfort, blurred vision, and dry eyes following surgery. However, these should all subside within a few days or weeks. Other more severe risks like infection, under or overcorrection, and corneal scarring need to be addressed by your optometrist. Dr. Choate will go over all of the risks with you at his Nashville, TN, office during your consultation.

Nashville, TN, Chooses Us For Their Optic Care

1

Sandra Dunning (Sandi)

Goodlettsville, TN

2024

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I have been seeing Dr. Choate’s office for years and truly feel he has saved my vision. The staff are so helpful and professional. I refer everyone I know to them. You will be very happy with your experience and their knowledge.

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Alicia Frierson

Goodlettsville, TN

2024

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Friendly and professional staff. I have been a patient here for years and I’ve never had a bad experience. Dr. Choate is the best!

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Dr. Choate and Dr. Colonna

Choate Eye Associates

Choate Eye Associates has been delivering high-quality, compassionate eye care to the Nashville community since 1979. We are affiliated with various leading organizations in the field, including: 

  • American Academy of Optometry
  • American Optometric Association 
  • National Board of Examiners in Optometry 

To schedule a consultation at our practice, call us at (615) 851-7575 or request an appointment online

Contact Us Today

"I am very pleased with the attention I received at Choate Eye Associates. Dr. Choate is very thorough and does a wonderful job of explaining what he is doing and what he is looking for in the exam."
Dianal - Comprehensive Eye Care Patient

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