Photorefractive Keratectomy (PRK) is a laser eye surgery that corrects vision, often reducing reliance on glasses or contact lenses. Understanding its safety is a primary concern for those considering the procedure.
The PRK Procedure Explained
PRK is a refractive surgery using an excimer laser to reshape the cornea, the clear outer layer of the eye. This alters how light enters the eye, allowing it to focus properly on the retina and improve vision. The procedure addresses common refractive errors like nearsightedness, farsightedness, and astigmatism.
Unlike other laser vision correction methods, PRK involves complete removal of the outermost corneal layer, the epithelium, before laser treatment. This layer naturally regenerates over several days. The excimer laser then precisely removes microscopic tissue from the underlying corneal stroma to achieve the desired curvature. The entire procedure typically takes 5 to 15 minutes for both eyes.
Understanding Potential Outcomes
A primary outcome of PRK is significantly improved vision, often reducing or eliminating the need for corrective lenses. Many patients achieve 20/20 vision or better, with a high percentage reaching 20/40 vision or better without glasses or contacts. This visual improvement is long-lasting and predictable.
While vision improvement is the goal, some individuals may experience temporary discomfort like foreign body sensation, burning, stinging, or light sensitivity in the initial days. These sensations usually resolve within 2 to 4 days as the eye heals. Temporary blurry vision is also common, gradually improving over weeks or months as the cornea stabilizes.
Less common visual disturbances include halos or glare around lights, especially at night. These often improve over time, though they can persist for some. Dry eye symptoms are also a possibility, though PRK may lead to less severe or shorter-duration dry eye compared to flap-based procedures.
In rare instances, under or overcorrection of vision might necessitate a secondary procedure. Other rare considerations include corneal haze, a cloudiness that typically resolves naturally or with medication within about a year, and infection, which is very uncommon but can occur.
Factors Contributing to Safe Outcomes
The safety and effectiveness of PRK are influenced by several factors, beginning with careful patient selection. Individuals must meet specific criteria, including being at least 18 years old with a stable vision prescription for one year. A comprehensive eye examination assesses overall eye health, corneal shape and thickness, and rules out conditions like keratoconus or severe dry eye. Patients with certain systemic health issues, such as uncontrolled diabetes or autoimmune disorders, or those who are pregnant or nursing, may not be suitable candidates due to potential impacts on healing and vision.
The surgeon’s expertise and experience play a substantial role in promoting a safe outcome. An experienced surgeon accurately assesses candidacy, performs the delicate laser treatment precisely, and manages post-operative considerations effectively. Advanced technology, including modern excimer lasers and high-resolution corneal mapping systems, enhances treatment precision and customization. These technologies allow for detailed measurements and accurate tissue removal, minimizing potential issues.
Thorough pre-operative evaluations are essential to gather data about the patient’s eyes and overall health. This assessment ensures the procedure is tailored to the individual’s unique ocular characteristics. Post-operative care, including diligent use of prescribed eye drops and adherence to recovery instructions, is important for proper healing and to minimize complications like infection or haze. Following these guidelines, such as avoiding strenuous activity, not rubbing eyes, and wearing protective eyewear, supports healing and contributes to a successful visual outcome.