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PRK, also known as photorefractive
keratotomy, is one of today's most successful
procedures correcting mild to moderate degrees
of nearsightedness, astigmatism and hyperopia.
This procedure utilizes the excimer laser, which
was FDA approved on October 20, 1995. PRK has
quickly gained popularity and is presently considered
"the refractive operation of choice".
The PRK procedure itself takes less
than ten minutes to perform and is painless.
In PRK, the cornea is modified and reshaped
to correct vision using the excimer laser. After
the protective epithelium (outer lining cells)
is removed, metered pulses of laser light are
applied to the eye, creating a reshaping of
the eye's curvature.
The patient is then fitted with a
contact lenses or "bandage" to aid
in the healing process and to improve in patient
comfort. Along with the bandage, the patient
is placed on both anti-inflammatory and antibiotic
drops. This regimen reduces swelling and minimizes
patient discomfort.
The contact lenses are removed 3-4
days post operatively. The patient then undergoes
scheduled routine eye examinations and is closely
monitored for underlying infections or other
complications that may occur. During these routine
visits the doctor stresses the importance of
patient compliance in post operative eye care.
Risks
As with any laser procedure there
are possible risks involved. However, serious
complications following PRK are very rare.
- Infection - treatable with antibiotic
medication
- Corneal haze or scarring
- Development of astigmatism
- Under or over correction
Expected side effects following
PRK:
- Discomfort after surgery
- Light sensitivity
- Halos
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