PRK
What is PRK?
PRK, or Photorefractive Keratectomy, is a refractive laser vision correction procedure that corrects nearsightedness, farsightedness, and astigmatism. PRK is an excellent procedure for those looking to reduce their dependence on visual aids and those who may not qualify as candidates for popular procedures like LASIK.
Unlike LASIK, which involves creating a flap in the cornea to correct refractive errors, PRK uses laser instead on the surface of the eye.
After removing the epithelium, your Cape Fear & Cataract surgeon will use a laser to reshape the cornea. This is the same excimer laser as in LASIK. The epithelium regenerates after a few days of PRK, allowing you to achieve the crisper, clearer vision you want without creating a flap in the cornea.
Do you want clearer vision without depending on glasses and contact lens? One vision correction procedure worth considering is PRK. Cape Fear & Cataract offers this procedure with a dedication to patient care and helping you achieve the most optimal vision possible.
Who is a Good Candidate for PRK?
You may be a good candidate for PRK if:
- You have thin corneas and are not a good candidate for refractive procedures like LASIK
- You have concerns about a LASIK flap or engage in activities that are high risk for eye trauma
- You have a stable prescription that’s remained that way for a year or more
- You have realistic expectations about what a procedure like PRK could accomplish
If you think you could be a good candidate for PRK, schedule your consultation at Cape Fear & Cataract now. A consultation is the only way to determine if you’re a suitable candidate for any laser vision correction procedure, PRK included.
What Can I Expect During the PRK Procedure?
You’ll receive numbing eye drops before your PRK procedure at Cape Fear & Cataract begins. These eye drops ensure you’ll be comfortable and experience a pain-free procedure.
Once the eye drops have spread across the surface of your eye, your surgeon will begin by gently removing the epithelium of your cornea.
Next, your surgeon will use an excimer laser to reshape your cornea. Reshaping your cornea corrects any refractive errors like nearsightedness, farsightedness, or astigmatism.
The excimer laser uses exact, precise measurements of your eye to ensure accuracy and tailored results for each patient. After reshaping the cornea, a protective bandage contact lens is placed over your eye.
The bandage contact lens will protect your eye while it heals, and the epithelium grows back, which takes several days. PRK usually takes about 5 to 10 minutes per eye to complete.
What is the PRK Recovery Like?
After PRK, you won’t be able to drive yourself home, as your vision will still be recovering. You’ll need a trusted friend or family member to drive you home safely.
Once you’re home, the best thing you can do is rest your eyes, which helps your recovery go smoothly. You will notice that your eyes feel itchy, scratchy, or gritty.
These feelings of discomfort should improve after a few days. Make sure to use eye drops and any over-the-counter medication as directed to manage this.
Your vision may be blurry for about 3-5 days after PRK, as the surface layer of cells on your eye takes this long to heal. Your vision should start clearing up quickly and will be functional within a day or two but can fluctuate for several weeks after having PRK.
You’ll need to return for a follow-up appointment at day one and about 5-7 days after the procedure to have your bandage contact lens removed from the eye and to check how your eyes are recovering. Avoid strenuous activities and don’t wear eye makeup for 1-2 weeks after the procedure. As your eyes continue to heal, you’ll start seeing more clearly.
Schedule a Consultation With Dr. Justin Needham
Do you think you could be a good candidate for PRK? Learn more about this procedure by scheduling a consultation at Cape Fear & Cataract in Wilmington, NC, today!
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