RK (radial keratotomy) is a procedure that can help people with mild to moderate myopia. AK (astigmatic keratotomy) is used to help people with astigmatism. You may have heard these procedures mentioned-they've been done for many years. The RK and AK procedures have evolved and improved over time, and are very reliable. The actual surgery takes minutes, and you'll spend only an hour or two in the office or surgical facility.

Correcting Myopia (RK)

During RK, tiny spokelike incisions are made in the cornea. When these incisions heal, the center of the cornea flattens. A flatter cornea means distant objects are clearer.

Correcting Astigmatism (AK)

During AK, curved or straight incisions are made in the cornea. These incisions help round out an oval cornea. A rounder cornea means objects are no longer distorted.