Photorefractive Keratectomy (PRK) Eye Surgery
Photorefractive Keratectomy (PRK) eye surgery is an elective outpatient procedure designed to improve vision and reduce or eliminate the reliance on glasses or contact lenses.
At Goldberg Centre Vision Correction, the PRK process uses an excimer laser to carefully reshape the curvature of the cornea, effectively correcting nearsightedness, farsightedness, and astigmatism.
The Difference Between PRK and LASIK
Before LASIK eye surgery became widely popular, PRK was the most frequently performed laser vision correction method.
Unlike LASIK, PRK doesn’t involve the creation of a corneal flap, making it particularly suitable for individuals with thinner corneas or those who have occupational or athletic restrictions that might otherwise preclude the creation of a corneal flap.
What Is Custom PRK?
Custom PRK enhances the traditional PRK procedure by customizing the treatment to each patient’s unique visual profile.
This is achieved using Wavefront technology.
- A Wavefront analyzer measures the way light interacts with your eye, creating a detailed visual map for the surgeon to analyze.
- This data is then processed by the laser to address both standard and higher-order visual aberrations (or imperfections).
- Custom PRK can result in crisper, clearer vision with a reduced likelihood of night halos or glare.
Your eye doctor will guide you through the process of determining whether Custom PRK would be beneficial for your particular case.
How Does PRK Work?
The PRK procedure includes several steps:
- No incisions or scalpels are involved in PRK surgery.
- The laser is thoroughly calibrated before the procedure begins.
- An instrument is used to gently prevent blinking during the treatment.
- Numbing drops are administered to ensure patient comfort.
- The thin surface layer of the eye (the epithelium) is removed. This layer regrows within approximately five days.
- Using computer-controlled laser pulses, the cornea is reshaped to improve visual clarity.
The whole PRK process typically takes about five minutes.
A bandage-like contact lens is placed over the treated eye, and additional eye drops are administered for protection.
Recovery Expectations
The healing process after PRK can take some time:
- Recovery tends to be slower, and some discomfort and temporary vision impairment may occur during this period.
- Patients are usually monitored daily until the epithelial layer has fully healed.
- During the recovery phase, patients often cannot drive.
To learn more about how PRK could help improve your vision, book a complimentary consultation at the Goldberg Centre Vision Correction today!