LASIK MD Laser Eye Surgery – PRK Vision Correction
PRK is a form of laser vision correction in which a laser eye surgeon removes the surface layer of the cornea (called the epithelium) and then reshapes the corneal bed with the laser in the same way as LASIK vision correction. This technique is usually used for people whose cornea may be too thin to safely allow for the creation of the corneal flap required for LASIK.
The procedure is used to correct nearsightedness (myopia), farsightedness (hyperopia) and astigmatism.
What is the Difference between PRK and
LASIK vision correction?
LASIK eye surgery involves creating a corneal flap and then
restoring it after laser treatment. With PRK, there is no flap
creation. The surgeon simply removes the outermost skin of the
cornea called the epithelium, and then uses
the laser to reshape the cornea in the same way as
LASIK. This epithelial layer of skin that is removed takes 3-5
days to grow back. During this time the eyes are protected with
contact lenses. There is a slightly longer healing period with
PRK.
Why Do Some People Need and Choose
PRK?
PRK may be used if your eye surgeon finds that you have
thinner than average corneas, and there is not enough room to fit a
LASIK flap. “Soft” corneas have a greater chance to
bend out of shape and are also not suitable for a
LASIK flap. Therefore, PRK is the alternative. Rarely, someone
may also choose PRK if their profession causes them to be at much
greater risk of getting hit in the eye and causing flap movement
(e.g. boxers, martial artists, wrestlers).
What are the Results of PRK Compared to
LASIK?
The visual outcome is the same whether
LASIK or PRK vision correction is performed. Both procedures
are also equally
safe. The only difference is that the healing time and the
number of
post-surgery visits with PRK.
Does PRK Hurt?
During surgery PRK does not hurt at all. Drops are used to numb
your eyes. It takes less than five minutes for both eyes. It is
easier to undergo than
LASIK. Pain after PRK varies from patient to patient: a few
patients experience only mild discomfort, the majority of patients
experience moderate discomfort for the first 3-4 days, and a small
minority experience a lot of pain. Many
post-operative measures are established to reduce the risk of
complications and to increase the ability for a successful
recovery.
