PRK - PHOTOREFLECTIVE KERATECTOMY

PRK (photorefractive keratectomy) is a procedure in which a surgeon uses a cool laser light to reshape the cornea. The procedure was first used in the late 1980's and was the first laser operation that reduced nearsightedness. The cool laser does not burn surrounding tissue, and because the procedure does not involve a scalpel or knife, the chance of the eye being cut is remote.

How is PRK perfomed?

The doctor will check the eye prior to surgery to make sure that there are no problems. Eyedrops to numb the eye, to limit swelling, and to reduce the risk of infection are given 30 minutes prior to surgery and at specified intervals during surgery. The eyelids are held apart by titanium eyelid retractors, and the doctor removes the epithelium layer of the cornea by lightly scraping it or by using the laser. The cornea is then shaped by a cool excimer laser. The reshaping of the cornea changes the way that light is refracted. This mechanism is what is responsible for changing vision. After the procedure, the doctor sends the patient home with bandage contact lenses in place and antibiotic, steroidal, and anti-inflammatory eye drops to use.

How Successful is the PRK Procedure?

Full results usually take up to 2-3 years after the procedure is done. Studies have shown that 95-98% of people that undergo the PRK procedure are able to legally drive without the use of corrective lenses.

How Long Does the Eye Take to Heal?

 The outer layer of the eye heals within 1-2 weeks. Full healing takes between 3-6 months.

Who can Have PRK?

PRK is mostly used to treat nearsightedness and some cases of astigmatism. A patient considering this procedure must be willing to adhere to the healing period requirements and must not fall into a category of people that the procedure is not recommended for.

Who Should not have PRK?

People who are pregnant or have any of the following:

  • eye infections or irritations
  • very dry eyes
  • cataracts
  • wandering eye
  • dilated pupils
  • progressing nearsightedness

What are the Possible Complications of the PRK Procedure?

While the surgery itself is painless, a few days of discomfort may be experienced after surgery. Overcorrection, undercorrection, an regression may also be complications.

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