PRK
PRK, also known as photorefractive keratotomy, is one of today's most successful procedures correcting mild to moderate degrees of nearsightedness, astigmatism and farsightedness. This procedure utilizes the excimer laser, and now is 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 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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