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PRK
What is PRK?
PRK, or Photorefractive Keratectomy, is a type of laser eye surgery, that is a good option for those with nearsightedness, farsightedness, and astigmatism. At Center for Sight, we specialize in PRK and have helped countless patients achieve clearer vision and reduce their dependence on glasses or contacts. This procedure is a common laser eye surgery and has been performed for over thirty years.
Your surgeon will use a laser to change the shape of your cornea. Changing the shape of your cornea will improve the way that light enters the eye, resulting in improved vision. After PRK, many patients are able to experience greater visual freedom with reduced dependence contact lenses and glasses.
What Happens During the PRK Procedure?
The PRK procedure is typically performed as an outpatient surgery and takes approximately ten to fifteen minutes per eye. Before the procedure, you will be given numbing eye drops to ensure that you are comfortable during the procedure.
Once the numbing drops have taken effect, your PRK surgeon will remove the outer layer of the cornea, called the epithelium. This is done using a special brush.
Once the epithelium has been removed, your PRK surgeon will use a laser to reshape your cornea based on your specific prescription. The laser used during PRK emits a cool, ultraviolet light that is used to precisely remove tissue from the cornea.
After the laser treatment is complete, a soft contact lens will be placed on the eye that will act as a bandage while your epithelium regrows during the healing process.
You will be given instructions on how to care for your eyes after the procedure. You will be provided eye drops to promote healing and prevent complications. Most people are able to return to work and resume normal activities within a few days to a week after the procedure.
Who is a Good Candidate for PRK?
In order to determine if you may be a good candidate for PRK or other refractive procedures, you will need an evaluation at Center for Sight. At this consultation, you will be evaluated to determine if PRK is right for you.
What is the Difference Between PRK and LASIK?
Both PRK and LASIK are types of laser eye surgery that are used to correct vision problems, but they differ in how they are performed.
During LASIK, a flap is created on the cornea. The flap is then lifted, and the cornea is reshaped using an excimer laser. After the cornea has been reshaped, the flap is replaced, and the eye is allowed to heal.
In PRK, the outer layer of the cornea, called the epithelium, is removed completely. The cornea is then reshaped using an excimer laser, and a soft contact lens is placed on the eye to act as a bandage while the epithelium regrows.
There are advantages of both procedures. It is best to talk with your surgeon to determine which procedure may be right for you.
Are you interested in learning more about PRK or want to determine if you may be a candidate for the procedure? Schedule an evaluation at Center for Sight today!
