PRK/Excimer
PRK (Photo Refractive Keratectomy) is a recent advancement in the correction of refractive errors. This laser technology offers new hope for sight with the possibility of reducing your dependence upon glasses or contact lenses.
What is PRK?
| The Eximer Laser has been used for refractive correction since 1989. It has only recently been FDA approved for use in the United States. In the procedure itself, the doctor directs the Excimer Laser with precision control onto the surface of the cornea. |  |
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| The laser flattens the cornea by vaporizing a very small part of the corneal surface. The total area affected is only microns thick. The result, by the miracle of laser light, is a reshaped cornea. The operation is bloodless and doesn't involve any cutting or sutures. PRK can be entirely performed on an outpatient basis. |  |
What are Myopia and Astigmatism?
- Myopia
Myopia, or nearsightedness, is a condition in which light rays focus in front of rather than precisely on the retina. The result is blurry vision, especially when looking at objects in the distance. Myopia occurs because the cornea is too curved or the eyeball itself is too long. The amount of nearsightedness varies from person to person. - Astigmatism
Astigmatism is caused by an irregular curvature in the cornea. Rather than being shaped symmetrically, like a basketball, it is curved like a football. This curvature bends light rays entering the eye unevenly, producing a blurred image. Both near and distance vision can be affected by astigmatism.
Is PRK for you?
Not everyone is a good candidate for PRK surgery. Some factors taken into consideration, before any prediction can be made about the procedure, are: the degree of your refractive problem, the thickness of your cornea and your age. PRK is an entirely elective procedure. The decision to undergo PRK must be made in careful consultation with our eye surgeons. However, if the idea of reducing your dependence on glasses or contact lenses fits your lifestyle, call the Florida Eye Clinic PRK coordinator at (407) 834-7776 extension 104 to arrange a free evaluation appointment, or click here to schedule an appointment online.
What to expect
During your evaluation, the doctor will perform several tests. Among them will be a refraction test to measure the amount of myopia, hyperopia and astigmatism present. Additional tests will determine the curvature and thickness of the cornea and the density of its cells. A glaucoma test will determine the fluid pressure within the eye. Additionally, we will need your medical history, including general health and known allergies.
Laser Procedure
The PRK procedure is performed under local anesthesia (eye drops). The laser beam affects only the cornea of your eye. You should experience only mild discomfort during the procedure. PRK is almost always done on an outpatient basis. You will be seated in a reclining chair. During the procedure itself, the doctor directs the Excimer Laser with precision control onto the surface of the cornea. The laser vaporizes a very small portion of the cornea which flattens it, and the result is a reshaped cornea. The actual procedure should take from one to six minutes, however your actual time in the laser room may be longer.
After Surgery
After the procedure is complete, you will be alert and ready to go home. For the first few days following your operation, you will probably find that your eyes are scratchy and especially sensitive to light. Eye drops and aspirin are usually sufficient to handle any pain. You'll be given complete written instructions to follow. These will help you to completely understand how to care for your eyes as they heal. Most people return to work and resume normal activities within 2 to 3 days following the procedure, depending on your occupation this may differ. Normally you will be farsighted initially following surgery. It should take approximately one month for your vision to stabilize. During this process you may experience halos and or glare especially when driving at night. The results and rate of vision improvement may vary due to individuals rates of healing and varying degrees of nearsightedness.
Risks
PRK is an elective procedure, and with any medical procedure, there are risks involved. PRK cannot always produce 20/20 or even 20/40 vision. PRK does not correct presbyopia-a condition that many times requires bifocals in patients over 40 years of age. After PRK, some patients may require reading glasses for close work. Should you desire to proceed with PRK, you will be given a written consent form which will list the possible risks and benefits involved. It is important that you understand these risks; our doctors and staff will take the time to help you fully understand these risks.
Benefits
Occupations that require good vision without glasses or contact lenses may benefit from PRK. The cosmetic, recreational and psychological aspects are all positive.
Free PRK Information & Screening
As one of Florida's leading centers for PRK surgery, the Florida Eye Clinic offers a variety of ways for you to learn more about the procedure and to determine if it is appropriate for you. If you'd like to schedule a free screening exam, call Florida Eye Clinic at (407) 834-7776 extension 104 to speak with the PRK coordinator, or schedule an appointment online. There is no cost or obligation for the private screening appointment.