Photo Refractive Keratectomy
Photo Refractive Keratectomy involves the same laser correction procedure as LASIK with the exception that your surgeon does not create a flap on the cornea. Instead the outer covering layer of the cornea, or epithelium, is gently removed which allows the laser to be applied directly to the corneal surface.A non-prescription “bandage” contact lens is placed over the treated area, while the epithelium grows back. Your eyes may take several weeks to stabilize at your final vision. One of the biggest advantages of PRK is that the procedure eliminates all risks associated with creating the flap. Typically, PRK candidates are people who cannot undergo LASIK due to thinner corneas, dry eyes, or retinal problems.
The difference between LASIK & PRK:
Corrects nearsightedness, farsightedness and astigmatism.
Corrects nearsightedness, farsightedness and astigmatism.
Wavescan Technology allows Dr. Brown and Dr. Hawkins to customize your procedure.
Wavescan Technology allows Dr. Brown and Dr. Hawkins to customize your procedure.
Numbing drops deliver a virtually painless surgery procedure.
Numbing drops deliver a virtually painless surgery procedure.
Cool-beam Excimer laser used to reshape the cornea after a protective flap of corneal tissue is created and lifted.
Cool-beam Excimer laser used to reshape the cornea on top of the actual surface of the cornea, after the epithelium has been removed.
A flap of corneal tissue is made using either a microkeratome or a laser. The flap is lifted then replaced to help protect the treated area.
A non-prescription “bandage” contact lens is placed over the treated area, which will be removed after 4 days.
Flap complications are very rare, but may include a dislodged flap and infections/inflammation under the flap.
No flap-no flap complications.
2-Day Recovery, allowing most patients to be driving after 24 hours of surgery. 1 Week of eye drops necessary after surgery, including an antibiotic, a steroid and artificial tears.
3-5 day recover to allow the epithelium to heal completely.
1-3 months of eye drops are necessary after surgery. Mild pain medication may be prescribed to treat any discomfort.
PRK-better for thin corneas, younger patients, Dry Eye, military personnel, higher prescriptions and abnormal topography results.
