Similar to LASIK, PRK surgery corrects vision by reshaping the eye's
cornea. It is grouped under the umbrella ‘laser eye surgery', but is
little different when it comes to the methodology, advantages and
disadvantages. PRK got its first FDA approval of a laser in 1995,
but the procedure was practiced in many countries since early 1980s.
There has been technological advancement in the procedure over past
few years. PRK surgery is performed with an excimer laser, which
uses a very specific wavelength of ultraviolet light energy to
accurately remove tiny tissues from the surface of the cornea in
order to restore it. Once the cornea is reshaped in the right way,
it works better to focus light into the eye and onto the retina,
providing brighter vision than before.
PRK surgery is beneficial to both nearsighted and farsighted people.
Excimer lasers can also correct astigmatism, by smoothing an
abnormal cornea into more normal shape. How ever, a successful
candidate for PRK surgery should be at least 20 years of age, have
an eyeglass recommendation which had been stable for atleast one
year and has healthy eyes which are free from diseases. Patients who
fulfil all these guidelines ensure that PRK surgery is most
appropriate for them.
Before, during and after surgery
Before surgery, the first step to be taken is to choose a best
surgeon. A surgeon will examine your eyes to determine what kind of
vision correction you need. A corneal topographer is used to check
the corneal irregularities, if any.
PRK surgery is a procedure that usually takes less than a minute.
Although, you are awake all the time doctors put mild numbing eye
drops beforehand. The doctor will place you directly under the laser
and your eyelids are kept open with the help of a retainer which is
normally not uncomfortable. You are asked to look at the target
light for a short time while the doctor watches your eye through a
microscope. It is important to concentrate on the target light while
the laser sends pulses of light to your cornea in order to remove
the tissue.
After the surgery it is important to follow your doctor's
instructions to get the best results. You may resume work the next
day, but it is advisable to rest for a couple of days.
Custom PRK is an advanced wavefront technology that can be used for
exceptional vision correction needs of a patient. Custom PRK not
only corrects lower order visual problems but also treats higher
order problems that affect visual quality. Doctors determine if you
are a candidate for PRK or custom PRK.
Benefits
• People who have been disqualified for LASIK can correct the vision
through PRK surgery.
• Majority of patients who undergo PRK surgery will find that they
have regained 99% clear vision, similar to what they had with
glasses or with contact lenses.
• It is an efficient, safest and less time-consuming surgical
method.
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