Kansas City’s Leader in Eye Care, Experts in Laser Vision Correction

What is PRK?

PRK (photorefractive keratectomy) was developed in the early 1980s. The FDA granted approval for PRK in 1995, but the procedure was successfully practiced in other countries for several years prior to that time. Before LASIK evolved, PRK was the most common refractive eye surgery performed in the U.S.

PRK and LASIK are both considered “laser vision correction surgery,” but each is a little different when it comes to advantages and disadvantages. LASIK patients have less discomfort initially and experience clear, unaided vision more quickly. PRK patients have more discomfort during the first 3 days following surgery and visual improvement is gradual over a few days to weeks. PRK is FDA approved and is a safe and stable procedure for patients who have nearsightedness, thinner corneas, irregular astigmatism and hyperopia.

PRK and LASIK are performed with an excimer laser, which utilizes a cool laser beam to reshape the corneal surface.

DAY OF SURGERY

PRK is an outpatient procedure. You should plan on being at the surgery center for approximately 2-3 hours. This includes pre-operative and post-operative testing as well. Most people do not feel pain during PRK surgery. Your eyes are first anesthetized with numbing drops. The surgeon will have you lie down and then make sure your eye is positioned directly under the laser. A special instrument is used to hold your eyelids open during the procedure. The surgeon uses a computer to adjust the laser for your particular prescription.

AFTER PRK

It is important that you follow your doctor’s instructions completely, using all prescribed medications and eye drops. Call your doctor immediately if you suspect a problem. What occurs after surgery can affect your vision just as much as the surgery itself.

Things to expect:

• Vision will be blurry and may fluctuate.
• You will wear a special contact lens “bandage.”
• You will use antibiotic drops for several days after surgery.
• Anti-inflammatory drops will be utilized for several weeks to months.
• Some patients experience light-sensitivity and find the use of sunglasses helpful.

To find out about the latest treatments for PRK or LASIK in Kansas City, call Discover Vision Centers at 816.478.1230 today or click here to schedule an appointment.