# PRK > https://www.2020institute.com/prk-eye-surgery/ PRK Eye Surgery in Denver & Colorado Springs – Personalized Vision Correction at 20/20 Institute ![2020-or-free-mobile](https://www.2020institute.com/wp-content/uploads/elementor/thumbs/2020-or-free-mobile-rptgpthynorz6a8v8gwbp9jov01ij32ufittc5ipic.jpg "2020-or-free-mobile") ![](https://www.2020institute.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/08/assets-spark5.png) ![Three friends enjoying a scenic hike along a river trail.](https://www.2020institute.com/wp-content/uploads/elementor/thumbs/three-friends-enjoying-a-scenic-hike-along-a-river-2025-04-04-23-38-39-utc-scaled-1-e1756405702937-rptgpthwpyhj3cw4o64fdmrzgmr778gvihxkbbx3j4.jpg "Three friends enjoying a scenic hike along a river trail.") # Clear, confident vision starts with trusted PRK specialists At 20/20 Institute, our board-certified doctors use advanced technology and a personalized, patient-first approach to serve patients in Denver, Colorado Springs, and surrounding communities. Photorefractive Keratectomy (PRK) is a proven, FDA-approved laser eye surgery ideal for individuals who may not be candidates for LASIK. Schedule a consultation today to see if PRK is right for you. [Book Free Consult](/schedule-consultation/) ## What Is PRK? Understanding Photorefractive Keratectomy Photorefractive Keratectomy (PRK) is a form of laser vision correction surgery, ideal for individuals with thinner corneas or those who may not be suited for traditional LASIK. In PRK surgery, a precise laser is used to reshape the surface of the cornea after gently removing its outermost layer, correcting vision problems such as nearsightedness, farsightedness, and astigmatism. ### How PRK Compares to LASIK: Unlike LASIK, which involves creating a corneal flap, PRK laser eye surgery does not require a flap. This makes PRK laser treatment a preferred option for patients with thin corneas or those with active lifestyles where eye trauma risk is higher. Both procedures use [advanced laser technology](https://www.2020institute.com/our-advanced-technology/) and deliver comparable long-term vision results, but PRK is often recommended when flap creation isn’t ideal. ### Why PRK? Benefits and Unique Advantages - **Consistent, Long-Term Results:**\ PRK delivers vision correction that stands the test of time. Patients enjoy stable, clear vision for years after surgery, with no risk of flap-related complications, making it a reliable choice for those seeking lasting improvement. - **Advanced Safety and Technology:**\ At 20/20 Institute, our PRK specialists utilize the latest laser technology and rigorous safety protocols to ensure every procedure meets the highest standards. Our commitment to ongoing innovation means patients benefit from the safest and most effective techniques available today. - **Personalized, Compassionate Care:**\ Every PRK journey at our clinic is guided by our patient-first philosophy. From initial consultation through recovery, our team is dedicated to clear communication, honest answers, and genuine support, so you always feel empowered and cared for. - **Transformative Lifestyle Benefits:**\ Many of our patients describe PRK as a life-changing experience. Imagine enjoying [Colorado’s outdoor adventures](https://www.2020institute.com/outdoor-activities-colorado-springs-lasik/), sports, and daily activities without the hassle of glasses or contacts. The emotional boost and newfound freedom often inspire a renewed sense of confidence and independence. ### Who Is a Candidate for PRK at 20/20 Institute? We conduct a thorough, technology-driven evaluation to determine if PRK is right for you, providing clear, personalized recommendations based on your eyes and lifestyle. **You may be a candidate for PRK if you:** - Are at least 18 years old with a stable prescription for at least one year. - Have thin or irregular corneas. - Experience chronic [dry eyes](https://www.2020institute.com/dry-eye-and-lasik/). - Have an active lifestyle or occupation such as first responders, athletes, or military where a corneal flap is not ideal. - Are free from certain eye diseases or uncontrolled health conditions. - Have been told you are not a LASIK candidate or are seeking an [alternative to LASIK](https://www.2020institute.com/lasik-alternatives/). **Ready to discover if PRK is right for you?****\**\ [Schedule your free PRK consultation](https://www.2020institute.com/schedule-consultation/) at 20/20 Institute today.  Our in-depth, patient-first evaluation will give you clear answers and a personalized vision plan, because your eyes deserve nothing less. “We believe every patient deserves the clearest vision possible, delivered with the utmost care and integrity. PRK allows us to help more people achieve that freedom, even when LASIK isn’t the right fit.” **— Mark Danzo, O.D., Co-founder** [![woman-hiling](https://www.2020institute.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/08/woman-hiling.jpg)](https://www.2020institute.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/08/woman-hiling.jpg) [![Ski-ing holiday,Three people, two men and a young woman standing on top of a mountain with arms outstretched.](https://www.2020institute.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/08/three-people-two-men-and-a-young-woman-standing-o-2025-04-04-14-51-51-utc-scaled.jpg)](https://www.2020institute.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/08/three-people-two-men-and-a-young-woman-standing-o-2025-04-04-14-51-51-utc-scaled.jpg) _Three people, two men and a young woman standing on top of a mountain with arms outstretched._ ![](https://www.2020institute.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/08/assets-spark5.png) ## Why Choose 20/20 Institute for PRK Eye Surgery? At 20/20 Institute, board-certified PRK surgeons help Colorado residents achieve life-changing results. As a locally owned practice serving [Denver and Colorado Springs](https://www.2020institute.com/lasik-colorado-2020-institute/), we combine advanced laser technology with rigorous safety protocols to deliver precise, comfortable, and personalized care. “We founded 20/20 Institute to create a place where patients are treated like family, not numbers. Our mission is to deliver the safest, most effective [vision correction](https://www.2020institute.com/lasik-vision-correction-denver-tech-center/) with honesty and heart.” **— Dr. Mark Danzo, Co-founder** Trusted for our experience, transparency, and community focus, we guide every patient with clear information and support throughout their vision journey. Choose 20/20 Institute for your PRK eye surgery and experience the difference of a team that puts your vision, comfort, and long-term satisfaction first. ## Your PRK Procedure – The 20/20 Institute Process **Recovery Timeline:**\ Most patients have blurred vision and discomfort for the first few days. Functional vision usually returns within 3–5 days. Full vision stabilization can take several weeks to a few months. **Aftercare and Support:**\ 20/20 Institute provides clear aftercare instructions, regular follow-up visits, and direct access to doctors for questions or concerns. Our team monitors your healing and addresses issues promptly. **Common Side Effects:**\ Temporary light sensitivity, discomfort, tearing, or gritty sensation are typical in the first week. These are managed with medicated drops, sunglasses, and the bandage contact lens. **Lifestyle Benefits:**\ PRK can provide freedom from glasses and contacts, improving daily activities and quality of life. ## PRK Surgery Cost, Financing, and Value **Transparent Pricing:**\ PRK surgery at 20/20 Institute in Denver and Colorado Springs is offered at a clear, competitive price. Your quoted fee includes your initial consultation, all pre-operative testing, the surgery itself, and all scheduled follow-up care. There are no hidden fees. **Financing Options and Insurance:**\ We offer flexible financing plans to help make PRK affordable, including monthly payment options. Most insurance plans consider PRK an elective procedure and do not cover the cost, but we provide Insurance discounts for ALL health and vision insurance plans. **Long-Term Value:**\ Investing in PRK can mean years of clear vision and freedom from the ongoing costs of glasses and contacts. Our commitment is to provide lasting value, transparency, and honest communication at every step. ## Meet Your Local PRK Doctors & Care Team Our board-certified surgeons at 20/20 Institute bring extensive PRK and laser vision correction experience. The team is committed to delivering the best results for every patient. ![Jim E. Montgomery](https://www.2020institute.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/09/jim.jpg) ## Jim E. Montgomery M.D. Medical Director, Ophthalmologist ![Jim E. Montgomery](https://www.2020institute.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/09/jim.jpg) ## Jim E. Montgomery M.D. Medical Director, Ophthalmologist Dr. Montgomery has been with the 20/20 Institute since 2005 and has performed over 40,000 successful LASIK eye surgeries in Denver. He graduated from the University of Texas Southwestern Medical School in 1992 before becoming board-certified in 1998 and recently completed his twenty-year recertification with an emphasis on refractive surgery. \ \ Dr. Montgomery maintains membership in the American Society of Cataract and Refractive Surgeons and is a fellow of the American Academy of Ophthalmology. \ \ A laser vision correction patient himself, he understands the magnitude of a procedure like LASIK and its profound impacts. ![Amy T. Kelmenson M.D., Ophthalmologist](https://www.2020institute.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/12/Dr-Amy-Kelmenson.webp) ## Amy T. Kelmenson M.D., Ophthalmologist ![Amy T. Kelmenson M.D., Ophthalmologist](https://www.2020institute.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/12/Dr-Amy-Kelmenson.webp) ## Amy T. Kelmenson M.D., Ophthalmologist Dr. Kelmenson is a cornea, refractive surgery and external disease specialist who has been practicing in the Denver area since 2012. She is a highly experienced corneal and comprehensive ophthalmic surgeon who has done thousands of ophthalmic surgeries including Lasik, PRK, ICLs and refractive lens exchanges. She is a board-certified fellow with the American Board of Ophthalmology. Dr. Kelmenson is a Colorado native who graduated from Cherry Creek High School. She received her undergraduate degree from the University of Rochester with degrees in both Biology and Spanish and played soccer for the university for all four years. She then completed medical school at the University of Colorado Health Sciences Center in 2007, and subsequently completed 1 year of internal medicine residency training also at the University of Colorado. She then went to the University of Florida in Jacksonville for her Ophthalmology residency training where she served as chief resident. She then went to Tufts New England Eye Center/Ophthalmic Consultants of Boston for her corneal fellowship, where she specialized in cornea, anterior segment, and refractive surgery. She moved back to Colorado in 2012 after completing her training and began practicing in the Denver area where she has remained ever since. In her free time Dr. Kelmenson enjoys mountain biking, skiing, hiking, traveling, and spending time with her family, including her two children. ![Denver LASIK surgery - 20/20 Institute](https://www.2020institute.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/04/Marc-J.-Ofchinick-O.D.jpg) ## Marc J. Ofchinick O.D., Staff Optometrist ![Denver LASIK surgery - 20/20 Institute](https://www.2020institute.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/04/Marc-J.-Ofchinick-O.D.jpg) ## Marc J. Ofchinick O.D., Staff Optometrist Dr. Ofchinick has extensive experience comanaging LASIK/PRK, ICL & RLE patients, having practiced optometry in places ranging from Alaska to Florida. As a graduate of the Pennsylvania College of Optometry in Philadelphia, he now calls Colorado home and is an active member of the Colorado Optometric Association and the American Optometric Association. \ \ Dr. Ofchinick is a LASIK patient himself, providing him with a unique perspective for understanding patients and their vision needs. ![Denver LASIK surgery - 20/20 Institute](https://www.2020institute.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/04/Mark-S.-Danzo-O.D.jpg) ## Mark S. Danzo O.D. Co-Founder, Optometrist ![Denver LASIK surgery - 20/20 Institute](https://www.2020institute.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/04/Mark-S.-Danzo-O.D.jpg) ## Mark S. Danzo O.D. Co-Founder, Optometrist [Dr. Mark Danzo](https://www.2020institute.com/about-dr-mark-s-danzo-od/) founded 20/20 Institute more than 20 years ago with the goal of bringing world-class, concierge-level service to Denver LASIK. He holds a Doctorate of Optometry from the New England College of Optometry and co-managed over 30,000 refractive surgery procedures throughout his illustrious career. \ \ Dr. Danzo has authored multiple books on operating a successful refractive surgery business and frequently speaks at international ophthalmic and optometric meetings. \ \ His patient-centered and transparent approach to LASIK eye surgery has helped solidify 20/20 Institute as one of the best choices for LASIK in Denver. \ \ His experience as both a LASIK patient and provider has earned him a unique combination of experience and empathy, allowing him to truly understand patients and better serve them. We are proud to serve Denver, [Colorado Springs](https://www.2020institute.com/colorado-springs-location/), and the surrounding areas. Our local roots and commitment to patient-first care set us apart as a trusted choice for PRK in Colorado. ## Real Patient Experiences – PRK Success Stories Patients across Denver, Colorado Springs, and nearby communities trust 20/20 Institute for their PRK journey. Here’s what they have to say: - - - - - ** I loved 20/20 Institute as soon as I walked through the door. They made me feel more than welcome and comfortable. They kept in touch with me throughout the process. I can’t ask for more comfort with 20/20 Institute. There wasn’t any pressure to get the procedure done in a certain amount of time or at all. I would highly recommend them to anyone looking for an incredible relaxing environment. My vision is amazing. I never thought this would happen to me. I’m so thankful and appreciative. ![a](https://www.2020institute.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/08/a.png) **April H.** Lakewood - - - - - ** Really wonderful experience having my vision corrected by 20/20. The entire process was great; their staff is knowledgeable, professional and most helpful. Would highly recommend visiting one of their Denver area offices if you’re contemplating Lasik surgery (the same staff bounces between locations). I had terrible vision requiring glasses 24/7 and am now 3 months post-op and seeing 20/15, it’s amazing. ![j](https://www.2020institute.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/08/j.png) **Justin H.** Broomfield - - - - - ** Amazing experience from start to finish. Everyone I interacted with was very knowledgeable, professional, and thorough. My surgery went extremely well and my vision is excellent! I should’ve done this a long time ago! I highly recommend 20/20 Institute – don’t entrust your eyes to anyone else. ![b](https://www.2020institute.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/08/b.png) **Bryan** Aurora ### Frequently Asked Questions About PRK at 20/20 Institute [How is PRK different from LASIK? ** **](#collapse-cac11906acc3ed4ae09e) PRK does not require a corneal flap. Instead, the outer layer of the cornea is gently removed before reshaping. This makes PRK ideal for patients with thin corneas or those at risk for eye trauma. [Is PRK safe? ** **](#collapse-06bd5116acc3ed4ae09e) Yes. PRK is FDA-approved, has decades of proven results, and is performed by board-certified surgeons using advanced technology. [How long does recovery take? ** **](#collapse-203b0d16acc3ed4ae09e) Initial healing takes 3–5 days. Vision continues to improve over several weeks to a few months. [Can I finance my PRK surgery? ** **](#collapse-2d542216acc3ed4ae09e) Yes. 20/20 Institute offers flexible financing options (WAC) to help make PRK affordable. [What results can I expect? ** **](#collapse-5da64cf6acc3ed4c2753) Most patients achieve clear, stable vision and freedom from glasses or contacts after recovery. [Is PRK right for me if I have thin corneas or dry eyes? ** **](#collapse-457db496acc3ed4c2753) It may be. PRK is often recommended for those with thin corneas, dry eyes, or who aren’t LASIK candidates. [Are there any risks or side effects? ** **](#collapse-18b144e6acc3ed4c2753) Temporary discomfort, light sensitivity, or blurry vision are common in the first week. Serious complications are rare and can be discussed during your consultation. [How do I prepare for my consultation? ** **](#collapse-d323a916acc3ed4c2753) Bring your most recent glasses or contact lens prescription. Be ready to discuss your eye health and vision goals. Our team will guide you through every step. ## Schedule Your Free PRK Consultation Today Take the next step toward clear vision with a personalized PRK consultation at 20/20 Institute. Our team will answer your questions, assess your candidacy, and provide straightforward guidance so you can make a confident decision. **Contact Us:** [Call 720-782-1906](tel:7207821906) [Book Your Consultation Now](/schedule-consultation/) ## Our Convenient Denver LASIK Locations ![LASIK Westminster 20/20 Institute](https://www.2020institute.com/wp-content/uploads/elementor/thumbs/westminster-d08a72be-rptgqg27wzo7vncf1jzx6mzki850chdv2gxwirfw6w.jpeg "westminster-d08a72be") ### Westminster Church Ranch Office Our Westminster office is conveniently located off Church Ranch Way, near the Boulder Turnpike. Our Westminster, Church Ranch location provides easy access from many of Denver’s surrounding towns, including: Arvada, Wheat Ridge, Lafayette, Erie, Superior, Longmont, Thornton, Broomfield, and Boulder. [Read More](https://www.2020institute.com/westminster-lasik-center/) ![Denver](https://www.2020institute.com/wp-content/uploads/elementor/thumbs/Denver-1-rptgpx9g4ayhfg3q3bvdsrqcmipo2jb8bvw6x87rnc.jpg "Denver") ### Denver Downtown LoDo Office Our downtown office is located right in the middle of Denver’s LoDo district. Our downtown location provides easy access from many of Denver’s neighborhoods, including: Five Points, Capitol Hill, The Highlands, Washington Park, Auraria, Cheesman Park, Commerce City, LoHi, RiNo, Baker, City Park, Whittier, and Congress Park. [Read More](https://www.2020institute.com/lasik-denver/) ![eye lasik center (Denver Tech Center)](https://www.2020institute.com/wp-content/uploads/elementor/thumbs/cf1945fd-rptgpfeiiga1autnzm5gze8lc75p0acbxfhysyy8xk.webp "Denver Tech Center") ### Denver Tech Center Belleview Office Our Denver Tech Center (DTC) office is located near the intersection of Belleview Ave and I- 25. There is plenty of free surface parking for extra convenience. Our DTC location provides easy access from many of Denver’s surrounding towns, including: Greenwood Village, Centennial, Lone Tree, Highlands Ranch, Castle Rock, and Parker. [Read More](https://www.2020institute.com/lasik-englewood/) ![2258325110](https://www.2020institute.com/wp-content/uploads/elementor/thumbs/2258325110-rptgq1yn2h4x1hwwbvwin8jnlg2i50tw0j5mbm0ss8.jpg "2258325110") ### Colorado Springs Office 20/20 Institute in Colorado Springs is not your ordinary LASIK provider. Entirely focused on the patient experience, our attentive staff and visionary doctors have carefully designed every aspect of our practice for optimal comfort and exceptional service. From our advanced technology to our transparent and caring approach, we are committed to helping you see the world more clearly. [Read More](https://www.2020institute.com/colorado-springs-location/)