PRK or Photorefractive Keratectomy (PRK) has emerged as a popular laser eye surgery option for refractive errors. In this article, we will discuss PRK – what it is, what it is for, safety, costs, and what to expect before, during, and after the procedure.
What Is PRK (Photorefractive Keratectomy)?
Photorefractive Keratectomy, commonly known as PRK, is a laser eye surgery aimed at correcting various refractive errors, allowing individuals to achieve clearer vision without the reliance on glasses or contact lenses. This procedure has gained popularity for its effectiveness in addressing common vision problems like myopia (nearsightedness), hyperopia (farsightedness), and astigmatism.
What Is It Used For?
LASEK eye surgery is primarily used to correct refractive errors. Refractive errors occur when the cornea (the clear front part of the eye) does not properly focus light onto the retina, leading to blurred or distorted vision.
Some refractive errors that PRK can address include:
- Nearsightedness (Myopia).
- Farsightedness (Hyperopia).
- Astigmatism.
Who Are The Suitable Candidates?
Ideal candidates are individuals with refractive errors that have remained stable over the past year. Additionally, patients should be a minimum of 18 years old, as this age is generally associated with the stabilisation of their prescription.
Good overall health is also important, and potential candidates should be free of any conditions that may impact the success of the procedure. Adequate corneal thickness is also a crucial consideration, and thorough discussions with an eye care professional are recommended to ensure suitability for PRK.
Is It Safe?
PRK is considered a safe and well-established procedure. Like any surgical intervention, there are risks, but the majority of patients experience significant improvements in their vision without complications. The absence of a corneal flap in PRK reduces the risk of flap-related complications seen in other procedures
LASIK Vs LASEK Vs PRK: What Are The Differences?
While LASIK, LASEK, and PRK are all laser eye surgeries designed to correct refractive errors, the key difference lies in the way the cornea is prepared for laser treatment.
In PRK, the corneal epithelium is completely removed before the laser treatment while LASEK involves lifting a thin flap of the corneal epithelium, which is then repositioned after laser treatment. LASIK, on the other hand, creates a corneal flap using a microkeratome or femtosecond laser, lifting it to expose the underlying cornea for laser treatment.
The choice between PRK, LASEK, and LASIK may depend on factors such as corneal thickness, lifestyle, and the surgeon’s recommendation.
What To Expect Before The Procedure
Before undergoing the procedure, a comprehensive eye examination is conducted to assess the health of the eyes and determine the suitability for the procedure. The surgeon may discuss the potential risks, benefits, and alternative options. If the procedure is deemed appropriate, detailed pre-operative instructions will be provided, including the temporary discontinuation of contact lens use.
.What To Expect After The Procedure
Following the procedure, patients may expect some discomfort, light sensitivity, and blurry vision initially. A protective contact lens may be placed on the eye to facilitate healing. Full recovery and optimal visual outcomes may take several days to weeks, and patients are advised to follow post-operative care instructions diligently.
How Long Is The Recovery Period?
The recovery period may vary from person to person. While some individuals may experience improved vision within a few days, others may take several weeks. Typically, patients may expect a full recovery within 2 to 4 weeks after the surgery.
Are There Risks?
As with any surgical procedure, PRK carries some risks, albeit rare. Potential complications may include:
- Infection.
- Halos or glare, especially in low light conditions.
- Changes in vision.
How Much Does It Cost?
In Singapore, it may cost S$3,800 and above. It is important to note that the cost may vary depending on the clinic chosen, surgeon, other fees, and other factors.
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This article is informative only and is not intended to be a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment, and should never be relied upon for specific medical advice.
