PRK, which stands for Photorefractive Keratectomy, is a type of laser eye surgery used to correct refractive vision errors. It can help people who are nearsighted (myopia), farsighted (hyperopia) or have astigmatism.
Preparation:
- Numbing drops: Your eye will be numbed with anesthetic eye drops.
- Lid speculum: A small instrument is used to hold your eyelids open.
Removing the Epithelium:
- The epithelium is the thin outer layer of your cornea (the clear front part of your eye).
- Removal: The surgeon will gently remove the epithelium using a specialized instrument or an alcohol solution.
Reshaping the Cornea:
- Excimer laser: An exact cool ultraviolet laser is used.
- Reshaping: The laser removes microscopic layers of corneal tissue, reshaping it to correct your refractive error. This changes how light focuses on your retina (the back of your eye) for clearer vision.
Post-Surgery:
- Bandage contact lens: A unique contact lens is placed on your eye to protect it while the epithelium heals.
- Eye drops: You’ll be given eye drops to prevent infection and inflammation.
How PRK differs from LASIK:
- No corneal flap: Unlike LASIK, which creates a flap in the cornea, PRK obliterates the epithelium.
- Longer healing time: The epithelium takes longer to regenerate after PRK, so vision improvement is gradual.
Benefits of PRK:
- Safe and effective: PRK has a high success rate and is considered a safe procedure.
- Suitable for thin corneas: It’s a good option for people who aren’t appropriate candidates for LASIK due to thin corneas.
- Reduced risk of dry eye: PRK may have a lower risk of dry eye compared to LASIK.
- Suitable for active lifestyles: Because no flap is created, PRK is often preferred by people with active lifestyles or those involved in contact sports.
If you’re considering PRK, it’s essential to:
- Consult an ophthalmologist: They can evaluate your eyes and determine if you’re a good candidate.
- Discuss your expectations: Understand the potential benefits, risks, and recovery process.
- Follow post-operative instructions carefully: This will help ensure optimal healing and the best possible vision outcome.
How much is PRK Eye Surgery?
Approximate PRK Cost at Cayra Clinics:
While a personalized quote is always recommended, yRK at Cayra Clinics starts at around €1,500 per eye.
Is PRK Eye Surgery Safe?
PRK is generally very safe and has a high success rate. While rare, risks include under/overcorrection, haze, dry eye, and infection. Choosing an experienced surgeon and following post-op instructions minimizes these risks. Discuss potential benefits and risks with your eye surgeon to make an informed decision.
How long to Recover from PRK Eye Surgery?
PRK recovery takes a bit longer than LASIK. Expect blurry vision and some discomfort for the first few days. Your vision will gradually improve over the first month, and you can usually return to most activities within a week or two. Full recovery can take several months, with vision stabilizing and side effects diminishing. Following your surgeon’s instructions and attending follow-up appointments is crucial for optimal healing. While PRK has a slightly longer recovery, it’s a safe and effective procedure for clear vision.
What is the Difference between PRK and LASIK Eye Surgery?
PRK and LASIK are both laser eye surgeries that aim to correct refractive errors like nearsightedness, farsightedness, and astigmatism, but they differ in their approach:
PRK (Photorefractive Keratectomy)
- Removes the surface: The cornea’s outer layer (epithelium) is completely removed.
- Laser reshapes cornea: An excimer laser reshapes the cornea to correct vision.
- Healing: The epithelium regenerates naturally over a few days.
- Recovery: Vision improves gradually over several weeks.
- Best for: People with thin corneas, dry eyes, or active lifestyles.
LASIK (Laser-Assisted in Situ Keratomileusis)
- Creates a flap: A thin flap is created in the cornea’s outer layer.
- Laser reshapes cornea: The flap is lifted, and an excimer laser reshapes the underlying cornea.
- Flap repositioned: The flap is put back in place, acting as a natural bandage.
- Recovery: Vision improves quickly, often within a day.
- Best for: People with moderate to high refractive errors and thicker corneas.
Here’s a table summarizing the key differences:
| Feature | PRK | LASIK |
|---|---|---|
| Corneal Treatment | Epithelium removed | Corneal flap created |
| Laser | Excimer laser | Excimer laser |
| Healing | Natural regeneration | Flap adheres naturally |
| Recovery Time | Slower (weeks to months) | Faster (days to weeks) |
| Visual Recovery | Gradual | Rapid |
| Discomfort | More initial discomfort | Less initial discomfort |
| Dry Eye Risk | Lower | Higher |
| Flap Complications | None (no flap) | Possible (flap-related issues) |
| Best for | Thin corneas, dry eyes, active lifestyles | Thicker corneas, moderate to high refractive errors |
Ultimately, the best choice between PRK and LASIK depends on your needs and eye characteristics. It’s crucial to consult an ophthalmologist to determine which procedure is most suitable for you.
