Tired of relying on glasses or contact lenses? PRK eye surgery, recommended by Dr. Trad El-Qadi, Assistant Professor and Consultant in Cornea, Cataract, and Laser Vision Correction, provides a safe and effective solution for clearer vision. Discover what PRK means, how it works, who it is suitable for, and what to expect during recovery.
What is PRK Eye Surgery?
PRK stands for Photorefractive Keratectomy, a type of laser eye surgery designed to correct refractive errors such as short-sightedness (myopia), long-sightedness (hyperopia), and astigmatism. Unlike glasses or contact lenses, which provide only temporary vision correction, PRK offers a long-term solution by reshaping the cornea—the clear front part of the eye—using a specialised laser.
prk vs lasik
PRK was one of the first laser vision correction procedures developed and has been successfully performed for decades. It is particularly beneficial for patients who may not be suitable candidates for LASIK due to thin corneas or other eye conditions.
Who Should Consider PRK?
PRK laser eye surgery is ideal for individuals who:
- Have thin corneas, making LASIK unsuitable.
- Lead an active lifestyle where corneal flaps, as created in LASIK, could pose a risk.
- Experience chronic dry eyes, as PRK is less likely to worsen the condition.
- Have a stable vision prescription that has not changed significantly in the past year.
- Do not have conditions such as glaucoma or cataracts.
PRK Eye Surgery: Step-by-Step Process
The PRK surgery consists of multiple steps:
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Before Surgery
- A comprehensive eye examination is conducted to confirm candidacy.
- Contact lenses may need to be discontinued weeks before the procedure.
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During the Procedure
- Numbing eye drops are administered to ensure comfort.
- Your eye specialist will carefully remove the outermost layer of your cornea (the epithelium).
- You will be asked to focus on a target light to keep your eye steady, ensuring precision.
- The laser will then reshape your cornea by removing tiny amounts of tissue. While the laser is invisible, you may hear a tapping or clicking sound as it operates.
- Following the laser treatment, your specialist may administer medicated eye drops.
- A bandage contact lens will be placed over your eye to protect it as the epithelium regenerates.
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Immediately After Surgery
- You may experience mild discomfort and blurred vision for the first few days.
- The epithelium typically regenerates within 3 to 5 days.
you can choose Which Sight Correction Surgery Is Suitable for You?
A common question about PRK is, “How long does recovery take?” Although the procedure itself is quick, PRK recovery takes longer than LASIK. Here is a general recovery timeline:
- First Few Days: You may experience discomfort, light sensitivity, and blurred vision as the epithelium heals.
- First Week: Most patients notice a gradual improvement in vision, but it is essential to avoid strenuous activities and follow your doctor’s instructions.
- First Month: Vision continues to stabilise, though some fluctuations are normal.
- Full Recovery: It may take up to three to six months for your vision to fully stabilise and for you to enjoy the final results.
To ensure a smooth recovery, use the prescribed eye drops, avoid rubbing your eyes, and attend all follow-up appointments with your ophthalmologist.
PRK Side Effects
Although PRK is safe, it may cause some side effects:
- Discomfort: Mild to moderate discomfort is common within the first 24 to 72 hours after surgery.
- Dry Eyes: Some patients experience dry eyes or a gritty sensation, similar to having sand in the eyes.
- Light Sensitivity: Temporary sensitivity to light may occur.
- Eye Drops: A course of medicated eye drops is required for a few weeks after surgery.
- Driving Restrictions: Patients should avoid driving for at least a week after the procedure.
- Vision Issues:
- blurry vision after prk.
- Glare or halos around lights, particularly at night.
Rare complications of PRK include:
The following are rare PRK complications:
- Eye infections.
- Corneal scarring.
- In extremely rare cases, loss of vision or blindness may occur.
- Temporary need for glasses within the first six months for improved vision.
Note: There is no need to worry; these symptoms gradually resolve over time.
Is PRK Eye Surgery Worth It?
Deciding whether PRK is right for you depends on your individual needs. Here are the key advantages and potential drawbacks:
Advantages:
- Removes the risk of flap complications associated with LASIK.
- Ideal for individuals with thin corneas.
- Reduced risk of developing post-surgery dry eye syndrome.
Challenges:
- Recovery takes longer when comparing PRK with LASIK.
- Discomfort is more noticeable in the first few days.
- Vision improvement is gradual and may take weeks or months to stabilise.
PRK Surgery Success Rate and Long-Term Results
PRK has a high success rate, with most patients achieving 20/40 vision or better. Studies show that PRK outcomes are comparable to LASIK, with stable long-term results. Many individuals enjoy clear vision for years, requiring only minor adjustments as they age.
PRK eye surgery is a reliable and effective vision correction procedure, particularly for individuals who are not suitable for LASIK. Although the recovery period is longer, the long-term results make it a worthwhile option. If you are considering PRK, consult Dr Trad El-Qadi to determine whether it is the best option for you. Book your appointment today.
