Photorefractive keratectomy, or PRK, is a refractive procedure similar to LASIK. Both are effective laser eye surgeries for correcting myopia (nearsightedness), hyperopia (farsightedness), and astigmatism.
The main difference between the two procedures lies in how each is performed. This can impact whether you’re a PRK or LASIK candidate, primarily based on your corneal health. You must be a candidate to have either surgery performed after a thorough examination.
Who is a Candidate for PRK Surgery?
PRK is most often recommended if you have thin corneas, which may not be suitable for LASIK. In a LASIK procedure, the laser creates a flap to reshape the cornea. PRK reshapes the cornea by removing the entire outer epithelial layer of the cornea (which regenerates over time) rather than creating a flap.
For patients with thin corneas, a corneal flap can potentially compromise corneal thickness. There is a reduced risk of that occurring since no corneal flap is required in a PRK procedure.
What is the PRK Procedure Like?
During a PRK procedure, the surgeon gently removes the outer epithelial layer before laser treatment. This process will reshape the cornea by allowing the laser to enter and focus on the retina of the eye. Following the procedure, the epithelial layer of the cornea will regenerate on its own.
In most cases, patients will receive a prescription for additional drops and medications designed to help their eyes heal and remain comfortable during recovery.
Recovery from PRK Surgery
After the PRK procedure is completed, you’re instructed to rest before returning home. We may require you to wear eyeglasses until your vision has stabilized. Eye drops will be prescribed by the surgeon to prevent infection and keep your eyes moistened.
While vision may improve immediately after the PRK procedure, the full results may take several days or perhaps weeks to become apparent. You should avoid strenuous exercise for at least a week, as this can interfere with the healing process. You will likely be able to drive a car after 2 to 3 weeks.
PRK Results
For any type of laser surgery, it’s important for our patients to have realistic expectations to be satisfied with the results. Some patients may experience only 20/40 vision, which requires contact lenses or glasses after the procedure. Please also know that PRK will not correct age-related presbyopia, a natural change in the eyes requiring reading glasses for patients over 40. So, if you require reading glasses, you’ll need to continue wearing them after PRK.
PRK Risks
As with any type of surgery, there are risks associated with the PRK procedure, including:
- Hazy vision
- Dry eyes
- Adverse reaction to anesthesia
- Inaccurate vision correction
- Sensitivity to light
- Problems with night vision (such as halos)
- Postsurgical infection
Many complications that may arise after PRK are similar to those that can occur after any type of refractive procedure.
Any surgery comes with risks. At Eye Consultants of Texas your overall health, eye health, and safety always come first. This is why we perform a thorough examination to determine if you’re a candidate for any type of procedure. Our doctors will discuss the risks and benefits with you to determine if PRK is the right choice to correct your specific vision issues.
Call our office at 817-410-2030 for an appointment and to learn more, or you can schedule an appointment online. Our office in Grapevine is conveniently located to anywhere in Dallas/Fort Worth.