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PRK: Refractive Eye Surgery

Fredericksburg, VA

Photorefractive keratectomy, better known as PRK, is a popular type of refractive surgery. Though PRK is like LASIK in many respects, the procedure has a few key differences that may make it more appropriate for certain patients. The ophthalmologists at Access Eye have had continued success correcting myopia (nearsightedness), hyperopia (farsightedness) and astigmatism with PRK. Patients who have this laser surgery can see without needing to wear prescription lenses as often — if at all.

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What Makes PRK Different

During LASIK, the ophthalmologist creates a small flap on the epithelium, the outer layer of tissue that covers the front of the cornea. After pulling back the flap, the ophthalmologist can use the laser to reshape the cornea to correct refractive errors. The flap is then put back into place.

With PRK, patients do not have a flap. Instead, the ophthalmologist gently removes the epithelium to access the cornea to correct with a laser. In the ensuing months, the epithelium naturally regenerates to protect the cornea again.

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Why Some Patients Choose PRK Over LASIK

Although both refractive surgeries have low rates of complication, LASIK’s are slightly higher because of the flap created in the epithelium. Some patients choose PRK simply because they consider it safer, even if it means a longer recovery period.

Patients with thin corneas are usually not viable candidates for LASIK, but they are still eligible for PRK. Patients who have previously had refractive lens exchange, cataract surgery or intraocular lens implantation are also better candidates for PRK.

Because LASIK patients are significantly more likely to develop dry eye symptoms, Dr. Arash Mansouri often recommends PRK over LASIK, particularly for patients over the age of 40.

Additionally, since athletes who play contact sports are more prone to eye injuries, they may choose PRK over LASIK to avoid having the flap dislodge in the future.

PRK Procedure Details

To minimize pain, the optical team numbs the patient’s eyes prior to surgery. The ophthalmologist carefully removes the epithelium to gain access to the cornea. Next, the ophthalmologist uses a laser to reshape the cornea and correct refractive errors that have been previously identified through a series of tests. Typically, the entire procedure is complete within 15 minutes.

Recovery

Patients should plan to rest and relax following surgery. Because their vision will be blurry, they will need to arrange for a ride home from Access Eye’s office. For most PRK patients, sight will improve significantly in a few days, although the full results may not arrive for several weeks. Patients are likely to experience moderate discomfort in the first few days, which can be managed with pain medication.

Follow the ophthalmologist’s post-surgical instructions, including taking prescription eye drops and wearing sunglasses when outdoors to avoid corneal scarring. The ophthalmologist will also schedule a follow-up appointment to ensure that the patient’s eyes are healing and progressing properly after PRK surgery.

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King George Office
7961 Kings Highway
King George, VA 22485
Phone: (540) 371-2020

Office Hours
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Ophthalmology in King George, VA Hours

Mondays – 8:00am to 5:00pm
Tuesdays – 8:00am to 5:00pm
Wednesdays – 8:00am to 5:00pm
Thursdays – 8:00am to 5:00pm
Fridays – 8:00am to 5:00pm

Closed for lunch from 1:00pm to 2:00pm