What is PRK laser eye surgery?

Understanding PRK Surgery: What You Need to Know About This Vision Correction Procedure

If you’re considering laser eye surgery, you’ve probably come across different procedures like LASIK, SMILE, and PRK. While LASIK may be the most well-known, **PRK (Photorefractive Keratectomy)** is an excellent alternative, particularly for those with thinner corneas or certain eye health concerns. In this blog, we’ll explore what PRK is, how it works, its benefits, and what you can expect during recovery.

What is PRK Surgery?

PRK is a type of refractive laser surgery designed to correct common vision problems like myopia (nearsightedness), hyperopia (farsightedness), and astigmatism. It was the first type of laser eye surgery developed and is still widely used today, especially for patients who aren’t ideal candidates for LASIK.

PRK differs from LASIK in that it **doesn’t involve the creation of a corneal flap**. Instead, the outer layer of the cornea, known as the **epithelium**, is removed before reshaping the underlying corneal tissue. Over time, the epithelium regenerates naturally, and the reshaped cornea allows light to properly focus on the retina, improving vision.

How Does PRK Work?

1. Pre-Surgery Preparation: Before the procedure, your ophthalmologist will conduct a thorough examination to assess your eye health, corneal thickness, and prescription. This helps determine if you’re a good candidate for PRK.

2. Surgery: During the procedure, the surgeon removes the thin epithelial layer from the surface of the cornea. This can be done manually, but modern techniques like TransPRK use a laser to remove the epithelium more precisely. Once the layer is removed, a cool excimer laser reshapes the cornea based on your specific vision needs. The entire process typically takes about **10-15 minutes per eye**.

3. Post-Surgery: After the surgery, a soft contact lens is placed on the eye to protect the cornea as the epithelium regenerates, which takes a few days. You’ll be prescribed eye drops to manage discomfort and prevent infection during this healing phase.

The Benefits of PRK

PRK offers several advantages that make it an excellent choice for many patients:

1. No Corneal Flap: Since no flap is created in PRK, there’s no risk of flap complications like dislocation or infection. This makes it ideal for patients who have thinner corneas or lead active lifestyles where eye injuries are more likely, such as athletes or those in the military.

2. Broad Applicability: PRK is often recommended for patients with **thin corneas** or irregularities in the corneal surface that might make LASIK unsuitable. It’s also effective for patients with mild to moderate refractive errors.

3. Long-Term Stability: While PRK may have a longer recovery period compared to LASIK, the long-term outcomes are just as effective. Once your eyes have fully healed, the vision results are stable and comparable to other laser vision correction procedures.

PRK Recovery: What to Expect

The recovery process for PRK can be longer than other laser eye surgeries. Here’s what you should expect:

1. Initial Discomfort: After the procedure, you may experience **blurry vision**, light sensitivity, and mild discomfort for a few days as the epithelial layer heals. Dr. Goldberg will provide medication to manage pain and inflammation.

2. Gradual Vision Improvement: Vision improvement is **gradual**. Most patients begin to notice clearer vision within a week, but it can take several weeks for the eyes to stabilize completely.

3. Follow-Up Care: Your doctor will schedule several follow-up appointments to monitor the healing process. It’s important to follow all post-operative instructions and use prescribed eye drops to support healing and prevent complications.

Who is a Good Candidate for PRK?

PRK is ideal for individuals who:
– Have thin corneas or corneal irregularities.
– Are active in any type of sports or careers where flap complications from LASIK could pose a risk.
– Have mild to moderate refractive errors and are seeking long-term vision correction.
– Are not ideal candidates for LASIK due to eye anatomy or lifestyle factors.

PRK is a tried-and-true laser vision correction method that offers excellent results, particularly for those who may not be suitable for LASIK. With **no risk of flap complications**, a more accessible option for patients with thin corneas, and long-term vision correction benefits, PRK remains a popular choice in the world of refractive surgeries. If you’re considering PRK, speak with an experienced ophthalmologist to determine if it’s the right option for you.

At the Goldberg Centre, Dr. Goldberg specializes in PRK surgery and offers personalized care to ensure the best outcome for each patient. Schedule a consultation today to learn more about how PRK can transform your vision and improve your quality of life.

**Have questions about PRK or laser eye surgery in general? Contact us today!**