Follow Us:
PRK Eye Surgery
PRK or photorefractive keratectomy is one of the oldest modern eye surgery methods, which was introduced to the world in the 1980s. In fact, it was the world’s first laser eye surgery method. Before LASIK was invented, it was more or less a norm for patients with eye problems to be treated with PRK. But in the present day also, the procedure remains a meaningful option for patients who suffer from conditions including farsightedness, nearsightedness and astigmatism.
The main reason why many people still prefer PRK rather than LASIK is that it doesn’t involve the creation of the flap. For those unfamiliar with it, during a LASIK procedure, a thin layer of tissue from the upper cornea gets folded back forming a ‘flap.’ This flap gives the doctors access to the tissue beneath it on which the excimer laser can be applied for ablation. After that the folded back tissue is replaced into its original position. Compared to LASIK, the recovery period with PRK is longer. Nonetheless, there are people who prefer PRK because they wish to avoid the creation of the flap.
In this procedure, the epithelium which constitutes the eye’s upper layer of cells is removed fully with the aid of an alcohol solution. This leaves the cornea’s sub-layer exposed, so that it could be easily accessed with a laser.
In this procedure, the epithelium which constitutes the eye’s upper layer of cells is removed fully with the aid of an alcohol solution. This leaves the cornea’s sub-layer exposed, so that it could be easily accessed with a laser.
Once this is done, the eye is covered with a bandage lens. This is left on till the epithelium grows again- typically, this takes a few days. However, complete recovery of vision could take about a month or in some cases, even longer. Compared to some other laser surgical methods, the recovery time is longer for PRK.
The excimer laser is used in PRK procedure. This is a UV(ultraviolet) laser with which doctors can remove corneal tissue using ablation. Essentially, it reshapes or recountours the front portion of the eye. This ensures that the light which passes through that part gets focused at the back of the eye as it is supposed to.
Compared to many other procedures, PRK brings some distinct advantages which makes it a preferred choice for many people.
More people can benefit from it: PRK is a procedure that can be ideal for thinner corneas as well. Since it removes just the top-most layer, it ensures that the maximum possible volume of tissue will remain intact so that the doctor can shape it.
Avoid complications from flaps: In procedures where a flap is created, the possibilities of flap-related complications arising are also present. These complications can happen either during or post surgery. The displacement of the flap is one of the major complications in this regard. With PRK, you can avoid such issues.
Cease to use hard contact lenses for a minimum of four weeks before the procedure. For soft lenses, the equivalent period is two weeks before the procedure. The reason is that such lenses could interfere with the diagnostic tests conducted in the run up to the surgery.
You should not use any lotion, make-up or perfume either on the day of the surgery or on the day before. Such products could leave remnants in the vicinity of both the eye and the eyelashes. This can raise the possibility of an infection.
Make sure that you arrange transportation which doesn’t involve you driving after the surgery, and also for the days immediately following the procedure.
For maximum efficacy, it is highly
recommended
that
you
follow
the
instructions
In the days immediately after the procedure, keep using eye drops. This not only prevents dryness of the eye, but also reduces chances of infection.
For a week after the procedure, it is recommended to use an eyepatch when you sleep. This will help prevent irritations.
For a minimum of a week after the procedure, do not partake in any contact sports. Also, try to avoid exerting yourself in general, and get good rest.
Avoid working for a week after the procedure.
Typically, it takes some five days for the layer of cells to grow again in the eye. It is normal enough during this time to experience discomfort like itchiness. Once the layer of cells grows again, the doctor proceeds to remove the bandage lens. After this, you should give around a month’s time for the vision to stabilise. Usually, a patent is asked to come for a checkup four or five days after the procedure. After that, patients are required to undergo a follow-up checkup in a one-month period.
Avoid working for a week after the procedure.
Do not rub the eye that has been operated on.
For a week after the procedure, it is recommended to use an eyepatch when you sleep. This will help prevent irritations.
Typically, it takes some five days for the layer of cells to grow again in the eye. It is normal enough during this time to experience discomfort like itchiness. Once the layer of cells grows again, the doctor proceeds to remove the bandage lens. After this, you should give around a month’s time for the vision to stabilise. Usually, a patent is asked to come for a checkup four or five days after the procedure. After that, patients are required to undergo a follow-up checkup in a one-month period.
Side effects and risks form a part of any surgical procedure. However, after the requisite tests are conducted, your doctor could identify any potential risks and determine your eligibility for PRK.
Since laser application is involved, hazing and scarring could occur.
Hazing results in the cornea taking on a somewhat milky pallor. Usually, it is not permanent and can
easily
be solved using the application of eye drops.
Though both are laser procedures, there are significant differences between them. In the case of PRK, the epithelium is fully removed, exposing the layer of the cornea beneath. Using an excimer laser, the doctor then removes the tissue on the topmost exposed layer of the cornea. In contrast, in LASIK, a flap is formed through which a layer of tissue in a sublayer of the cornea can be accessed. After the procedure, the flap is repositioned. Also, in LASIK, the recovery time is comparatively shorter and the patients experience lesser discomfort during recovery.
While PRK is typically suited for those with thin corneas, other factors also influence your eligibility for the procedure. These include other conditions like dry eye syndrome or prescriptions you may be taking. If you are not eligible to get LASIK procedure, both SMILE® and PRK are possible alternatives. Such procedures can also help those suffering from serious myopic issues. Those prone to flap complications- like those involved in contact sports and certain strenuous jobs- can also consider these procedures. However, ultimately, your ophthalmologist should be the one to recommend the ideal procedure for you, based on the issue you face and other relevant factors.