Photo Refractive Keratectomy
Photo Refractive Keratectomy also known as PRK or simply, "The Laser". Developed by a number of surgeons and laser companies during the 1980's and 1990's, PRK offers another choice in reducing or eliminating one's need for glasses or contact lenses.
Using an excimer laser, the corneal epithelium or outer layer is removed. Further application of laser energy reshapes the central 6.5mm of cornea eliminating nearsightedness, farsightedness or astigmatism by removing a thin portion of the corneal tissue. Unlike RK, PRK can successfully treat relatively large amounts of astigmatism with great accuracy as well as farsightedness and mild to moderate degrees of nearsightedness. During the first 1 to 3 days following the operation, patients may experience more discomfort than either of the other techniques. Vision usually clears up within a few days and patients may return to normal activities quickly.
Advantages of PRK include very accurate correction, safety, and excellent final results. Repeat operations are only necessary about 1% of the time. Several disadvantages exist with PRK, however.One disadvantage of PRK is that one must use eye drops in a gradually decreasing dose for at least 4 months following the procedure. Another disadvantage is the chance of scar tissue developing (particularly with very high degrees of correction) in the treated area of the cornea. This may sometimes be permanent leading to decreased vision.
Eye Surgery Associates of Southwest Virginia offers personal evaluations to those interested in refractive surgery services. This visit would consist of a thorough measurement of one's eyeglasses and a detailed eye examination. Many complications can be avoided by recognizing all of the features about a patient's eye condition prior to ever going to the operative suite. Patient's who are seriously considering the surgery should leave their soft contacts out for up to 2 week prior to their evaluation visit.
Patients wearing gas permeable or hard contacts may need to leave the lenses out for an even longer period, sometimes up to 4 weeks, in order to allow an accurate assessment at the time of your evaluation. After your exam, individual answers specific for each patient can be given. In addition, we can provide references to our patients who have had the surgery, offering further feedback. In comparing results from patient to patient it is most useful to talk to someone who has a similar condition both in terms of age and eyeglass prescription. Please give our office a call or contact us via email if you have any questions.
