PRK (photorefractive keratectomy) utilizes the excimer laser in a precise, minimally invasive fashion to reshape the surface of the cornea. Using a state-of-the-art computerized program, this laser corrects myopia (nearsightedness) by flattening corneas that are too steep, corrects hyperopia (farsightedness) by steepening corneas that are too flat, and reshapes the surface of a cornea that is shaped irregularly to correct astigmatism. The laser gently removes a thin layer of tissue from the surface of the cornea to give the desired correction, thus enabling the eye to focus properly. This laser treatment reduces or eliminates the need for eyeglasses or contact lenses.