PRK
What is Photorefractive Keratectomy Surgery? An Alternative to LASIK
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PRK is another form of laser eye surgery that corrects refractive errors: nearsightedness (myopia), farsightedness (hyperopia), and astigmatism.
PRK v. LASIK What's the Difference?
Both laser eye surgeries treat nearsightedness, farsightedness, and astigmatism to allow the patient to see clearly without the use of their contact lenses and glasses.
PRK
During this refractive surgery, the outermost layer of your cornea (the epithelium) is removed using an excimer laser. The remaining corneal tissue underneath is then reshaped. You will be given a protective contact lens to aid epithelial healing. Because the entire outer layer is removed, the recovery time for PRK is longer than LASIK. However, it produces the same results and is an effective alternative for those who are not good candidates for LASIK.
LASIK
During this refractive surgery, your doctor will create a flap in the outermost layer of your cornea. The flap is then peeled back so the laser can reshape your cornea. Immediately following the LASIK procedure, the flap is closed without the need for sutures. Over the following days and weeks, your corneal flap will close and heal on its own. This healing and recovery time is often quicker than PRK as an entire layer of the cornea is not removed.
Am I a Good Candidate For Photorefractive Keratectomy Surgery?
Before you undergo PRK surgery, you will meet with one of our doctors to determine if you are a good candidate. Poor candidates for PRK are people under 21, women who are pregnant or nursing, or people suffering from an underlying disease such as uncontrollable diabetes or glaucoma.
People who are good candidates typically have:
Certain activities can put your corneal flap at risk of becoming dislodged, such as a physically active job (like the military) or if you participate in strenuous sports (like boxing). PRK is typically recommended in these cases to lower the risk of corneal complications.
People who have thin corneas are not good candidates for LASIK as it can be difficult to create the corneal flap, but they can undergo PRK surgery. PRK removes the outermost layer of the cornea (the epithelium), which allows the doctor to reshape the underlying layers.
To be a good candidate for PRK, you need to have had a prescription that has been unchanged for at least a year. This increases the chances of a successful outcome on the first surgery without having to undergo a second procedure to fine-tune your results.
Benefits of PRK
Improved Vision
Most patients who undergo PRK surgery achieve at least 20/40 vision without the need for contacts or glasses.
Results That Last
PRK results are permanent. However, the natural aging process of our eyes could eventually require the use of glasses for reading or at night.
An Effective Alternative
PRK is a great way for people who cannot undergo LASIK eye surgery to still achieve the same benefits of significantly improved vision.
Say Goodbye to Contacts Call Our Wilmington Office Today!
Eye Physicians and Surgeons is home to a team of experienced ophthalmic and optometric professionals who strive to provide excellence in eye care to the Wilmington area.
We take the time to get to know each patient's needs and expectations so we can put together a treatment plan that is right for them. If you are tired of wearing contacts and glasses and are ready to see clearly, schedule a consultation today. Our team will know whether PRK is the best option for you.
Send us a message or call our Wilmington, DE, office to schedule your PRK consultation.
(302) 652-3353
See Why Delaware Chooses Us For Their Eye Care
Skiey M
2021
Dr. Prachi is wonderful. She takes time to explain the things and procedures and helps me with any questions I may have. She is thorough and patience and is always great to visit.
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Dana R.
2020
This is a wonderful practice. I have been a patient of this practice for many years and have always received excellent quality service. The doctors and staff are always courteous, professional and genuine in their passion for helping patients, and spend the time necessary to answer all questions and concerns...
View On YelpWhat to Expect During PRK Treatment
The first step is to schedule a consultation at our Wilmington, DE, office to see if LASIK or PRK is the best treatment option for you.
The entire procedure typically takes less than 15 minutes.
Are There Any Side Effects?
In the first few days after PRK surgery, it is normal to experience blurred vision, dry eyes, and mild discomfort. Patients experiencing any pain or discomfort after their laser surgery can take over-the-counter pain medication and prescription eye drops to minimize their symptoms. These common side effects should subside within a few days to a few weeks.
You should contact your doctor if you are experiencing the following:
- Over or undercorrection
- Cloudiness of the cornea
- Signs of infection
- Poorer vision
Recovery
Follow your doctor's instructions to ensure a safe and quick recovery.
Avoid Touching Your Eyes
Be conscious not to touch or rub your eyes in the days following your procedure. This could damage your cornea and lead to more serious side effects.
Use Medication as Prescribed
Use your prescription eye drops on schedule per your doctor's orders to prevent infection. Use lubricating eye drops to prevent dry eye, which can damage the cornea.
Avoid Strenuous Activity
While daily activities can be resumed in around 24 hours, swimming and any strenuous physical activity should be avoided for a few weeks after surgery until the eyes are fully healed.
Avoid Sun Exposure
It is important to give your eyes time to heal and rest. Wear sunglasses if you need to go outside so your eyes are not strained. Putting any strain on your eyes should be avoided for a few weeks following your procedure.
More 5-Star Reviews! Helping People See All Over Delaware
Giovanni Conigliaro
2021
Great practice and good service!
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George C.
2020
...The staff is personable, engaged, down-to-earth but efficient and professional...
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