PRK

DESCRIPTION OF THE PROCEDURE

Photorefractive Keratectomy or PRK is a laser vision correction procedure used to reduce or eliminate the need for eyeglasses or contact lenses. It treats nearsightedness, farsightedness, and astigmatism by reshaping the front surface of the eye called the cornea using an excimer laser.

In PRK, the thin outer skin layer of the cornea (epithelium) is gently removed. The laser then precisely reshapes the corneal tissue to improve how light is focused on the retina. The surface layer naturally grows back over several days.

PRK is an established, evidence-based procedure and is recognized as safe and effective for properly selected patients.

WHO MAY BENEFIT

PRK may be recommended for patients who:

1. Have stable eyeglass or contact lens prescriptions

2. Have corneas that are too thin for LASIK

3. Have certain corneal surface or flap-related risk factors

4. Prefer a flap-free laser vision correction method

A full eye examination and diagnostic testing are required to confirm eligibility.

EXPECTED BENEFITS

The intended benefits of PRK include:

1. Reduced dependence on eyeglasses or contact lenses

2. Improved uncorrected distance vision

3. Long-term refractive correction in suitable candidates

4. No creation of a corneal flap

Most patients achieve functional distance vision, but perfect vision without glasses cannot be guaranteed.

KNOWN RISKS AND POSSIBLE COMPLICATIONS

All surgical procedures carry risk. With PRK, possible risks and side effects include:

1. Pain, foreign body sensation, and light sensitivity for several days

2. Blurred or fluctuating vision during early healing

3. Dry eye symptoms

4. Glare, halos, or night vision disturbances

5. Corneal haze or scarring

6. Infection or delayed epithelial healing

7. Under-correction or over-correction that may require enhancement or glasses

Serious complications are uncommon but can affect vision. Additional treatment or surgery may be required in some cases.

ALTERNATIVES

Reasonable alternatives include:

1. Continued use of eyeglasses or contact lenses

2. Other laser procedures such as LASIK or SMILE, if suitable

3. Implantable lens procedures in selected cases

4. No treatment

The choice depends on clinical findings, lifestyle needs, and patient preference.

WHAT TO EXPECT AFTER THE PROCEDURE

A bandage contact lens is placed after PRK and usually kept for several days. Vision is typically blurry at first and improves gradually over weeks.

Typical recovery features include:

1. Discomfort for 3 to 5 days

2. Use of prescribed eye drops for several weeks to months

3. Activity restrictions during early healing

4. Follow-up visits as scheduled

Final visual outcome may take several weeks to months to stabilize.

PATIENT RESPONSIBILITIES

For safety and best results, the patient agrees to:

1. Provide complete and accurate medical history

2. Follow all medication and aftercare instructions

3. Attend all follow-up visits

4. Report warning symptoms promptly

NO GUARANTEE

While PRK is supported by clinical evidence and widely performed, outcomes vary per individual. No guarantee or warranty can be made regarding exact visual results. The procedure aims to reduce dependence on corrective lenses but may not eliminate them completely.