What is PRK Surgery?
Photorefractive keratectomy (PRK) is a laser eye surgery designed to correct refractive errors such as nearsightedness , farsightedness , and astigmatism by reshaping the cornea.
This procedure enhances the eye’s focusing ability, reducing dependence on glasses or contact lenses . PRK is particularly suitable for individuals with thin corneas or those who may not be ideal candidates for LASIK surgery .
The PRK Procedure
The PRK procedure involves several key steps:
1. Preoperative Assessment
Before surgery, a comprehensive eye examination is conducted to assess vision, measure refractive errors, and map the corneal shape. This information is used to program the laser for precise correction.
2. Preparation
- Patients may be advised to discontinue certain medications and stop wearing contact lenses prior to surgery.
- Antibiotic eye drops might be prescribed to prevent infection.
3. Surgery Day
On the day of the procedure:
- Arrange transportation, as driving will not be possible afterward.
- Expect the surgery to take about 5 to 10 minutes per eye.
The procedure includes:
- Anesthesia:
- Numbing eye drops are applied to ensure comfort.
- Epithelial Removal:
- The surgeon removes the outer layer of the cornea (epithelium) using a laser , blade, alcohol solution, or brush.
- Corneal Reshaping:
- An excimer laser is used to reshape the cornea by removing precise amounts of tissue.
- Protective Contact Lens:
- A clear, non-prescription bandage contact lens is placed on the eye for protection during healing.
Recovery and Aftercare
Recovery from PRK surgery requires patience and adherence to postoperative instructions:
- Initial Discomfort:
- Patients may experience discomfort or pain for up to three days post-surgery.
- Over-the-counter pain relievers are usually sufficient, but prescribed medication can be provided if necessary.
- Vision Fluctuations:
- Vision may be blurry during the first few days but typically improves as the cornea heals.
- Complete visual stabilization can take several weeks to months.
- Activity Restrictions:
- Avoid rubbing the eyes and refrain from activities that could expose the eyes to contaminants or strain, such as swimming or contact sports, for at least two weeks.
- Follow-Up Appointments:
- Patients should visit their eye doctor for regular check-ups to monitor healing and address any issues.
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PRK vs. LASIK
Both PRK and LASIK are designed to correct refractive vision problems, but they differ in several ways:
| Feature | PRK | LASIK |
| Procedure | Outer corneal layer removed | Corneal flap created |
| Recovery | Longer healing time | Faster recovery |
| Suitability | Ideal for thin corneas | Requires sufficient corneal thickness |
| Discomfort | More discomfort initially | Less discomfort |
| Risk of Dry Eye | Lower | Higher |
Pros of PRK
✔ Suitable for individuals with thin corneas or severe nearsightedness
✔ Lower risk of complications from corneal flaps
✔ Less chance of developing dry eye syndrome
Cons of PRK
❌ Longer recovery due to the need for corneal epithelium regeneration
❌ Higher risk of infection compared to LASIK
❌ Blurry vision and light sensitivity during recovery
Cost of PRK
The cost of PRK varies based on location, surgeon, and clinic. On average, expect to pay around $1,800 per eye .
Conclusion
PRK and LASIK are both effective vision correction procedures. The best choice depends on individual eye conditions, lifestyle, and recovery preferences.
- Choose PRK if you have thin corneas or severe nearsightedness.
- Choose LASIK if you need faster recovery and have sufficient corneal thickness.
For more information, consult an eye care professional to determine the best option for you.
