Photorefractive Keratotomy (PRK) Eye Surgery
Photorefractive keratectomy, or PRK, is a type of laser eye surgery used to correct mild to moderate nearsightedness , farsightedness and/or astigmatism .
All laser vision correction surgeries work by reshaping the cornea, or clear front part of the eye, so that light traveling through it is properly focused onto the retina located in the back of the eye. There are a number of different surgical techniques used to reshape the cornea. During PRK, an eye surgeon uses a laser to reshape the cornea. This laser, which delivers a cool pulsing beam of ultraviolet light, is used on the surface of the cornea not underneath the cornea, as in LASIK.
What Are the Advantages of PRK?
PRK is highly accurate in correcting many cases of nearsightedness. Approximately 80% of PRK patients have 20/20 vision without glasses or contact lenses one year after the surgery; 95%-98% have 20/40 or better without glasses or contacts.
What Are the Disadvantages of PRK?
Disadvantages of PRK include:
- Mild discomfort, including minor eye irritation and watering, for 1 to 3 days following the procedure.
- It is expensive, typically costing as much as LASIK, around $2,200 to $2,250 per eye.
- Somewhat longer time to best uncorrected vision (best vision is vision attained using glasses or contacts) typically patients are 80% at 1 month after surgery, and 95%-100% by 3 months after surgery. LASIK, in contrast, corrects vision much faster.
- The outcome is not completely predictable and some patients may still require glasses.
What Are the Potential Side Effects of PRK?
Many PRK patients experience some discomfort in the first 24 to 48 hours after surgery and almost all experience sensitivity to light. Within the first six months after surgery, other potential side effects may include:
- Loss of best vision achieved with glasses
- Seeing a minor glare, this can be permanent, depending on a patient's pupil size in dim light.
- Mild halos around images
How Do I Prepare for PRK Surgery?
Before your PRK surgery you will have met with a coordinator who will discuss with you what you should expect during and after the surgery. During this session your medical history will be evaluated as well as have your eyes tested. Likely tests will include measuring corneal thickness, refraction, and pupil dilation. Once you have gone through your evaluation, you will meet the surgeon, who will answer any further questions you may have. Afterwards, you can schedule an appointment for the PRK procedure.
If you wear rigid gas permeable contact lenses, you should not wear them starting three weeks before the date of your surgery. Other types of contact lenses shouldn't be worn for at least three days prior to surgery. Be sure to bring your glasses so your prescription can be reviewed.
On the day of your surgery, eat a light meal before coming and take all of your prescribed medications. Do not wear eye makeup or have any bulky accessories in your hair that will interfere with positioning your head under the laser. If you are not feeling well that morning, call the doctor's office to determine whether the procedure needs to be postponed.
Next: What happens during the PRK procedure? »
- LASIK Eye Surgery - Get information about LASIK, refractive surgery for vision correction (of astigmatism, nearsightedness, farsightedness), risk factors (dry eyes, high myopia or hyperopia) and benefits.
- Eye Care - Get information on eye care tips and eye health, disorders and treatment with OTC eye-care products, and when to see an ophthalmologist about an eye infection or condition.
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