PRK
PRK (Photo Refractive Keratectomy)
Photo Refractive Keratectomy, the original refractive surgery, is a laser eye surgery similar to Lasik that reshapes the cornea using excimer laser. The major difference is that PRK does not create a flap prior to laser treatment of corneal stroma. Because the ophthalmologist does not have to create a flap, the PRK is a little easier procedure to as it is less risk of a flap complication. With no flap, patients who have thinner corneas can also be treated with no thickness available for the laser treatment.
In the pre-operative exam, ophthalmologists will map out the pre-determined amount of cornea to be removed for the planned specification. Patients will be instructed not to wear contact lenses for a period of time prior to receiving the surgery. This is to allow the cornea o return to its original shape. The general procedures are: Anesthetic eye drops are used to numb the cornea. While he eyelids are held open by a special instrument, the surgeon removes the epithelium (thin layer if corneal cells) to gain access to the cornea. Then, the excimer laser pulses are used to vaporize the cornea tissue little by little to the planned specifications. This is usually no pain to the patients, and it takes only a few minutes to perform. In the end, a bandage contact lens is then placed on the eye for comfort and preventing the inflection. After the procedure, patients will be prescribed to apply antibacterial and anti-inflammatory eye drops regularly for 6-14 weeks until healed.
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