Is PRK (Photo-Refractive Keratectomy) Safe?
PRK is short for Photorefractive Keratectomy. It is a surgical procedure used to improve vision. It corrects refractive vision errors that result in astigmatism, nearsightedness, and farsightedness. Refractive errors happen when light does not bend correctly in the cornea.
The patient experiences blurred vision, difficulty seeing near objects, and crossed eyes in children. Severe cases result in retinal detachment and vision loss. The PRK procedure reshapes the cornea to improve the eye’s ability to focus.
What Is the Difference Between PRK and LASIK Procedures?
Both PRK and LASIK procedures are surgical interventions for refractive vision problems. They reshape the cornea to allow light to penetrate at the right angles. With LASIK surgery, the surgeon creates a flap out of the epithelial layer. This flap is made using a precision bladeless laser. It remains attached through the procedure, and it is placed back when it is done. It exposes the cornea for reshaping.
With PRK, the epithelial layer is removed completely to allow the reshaping of the cornea. The removed layer regenerates and grows back over time. Most people feel comfortable with LASIK because the recovery is easier and faster.
Why Do People Go for PRK Surgery?
Most patients who need corneal surgery go for LASIK surgery. PRK surgery is good for severe cases of refractive vision problems. People with irregularly shaped corneas are better off with PRK. If you have a poor corneal thickness or a detached retina, then PRK is better than LASIK. However, candidates must be above 18 years of age. Their eyes must be mature enough and out of the rapid growth stage.
What Are the Risks Involved With PRK?
After the PRK procedure, healing may take longer. The outer layer of the cornea is removed, and it takes time to regenerate. Because of this, there is a higher risk of eye infection. Corneal scarring and abrasion is a possible risk during surgery. Some patients experience corneal haze, which is a cloudiness in the cornea. The patient may experience sensitivity to light and wind. Blurry vision, discomfort, and inflammation are also possible risks. Some patients experience permanent dry eyes after this procedure.
Is PRK Surgery Safe?
Every medical procedure has a percentage of risk involved. With PRK, there are success stories and some unsuccessful cases. The procedure itself is safe. The conditions of the patient and the practitioner may determine the outcome. Any surgical procedure must be conducted under safe and proper conditions. The patient must undergo a series of tests and exams to ensure their eligibility for the procedure.
Patients should also consult with their caregivers to find out if they have conditions that may lead to PRK failure. People who experience a lot of scarring are not good candidates. Patients with diabetes, advanced glaucoma, corneal abrasion, and severe cataracts are not good candidates for PRK. Pregnant or nursing women are also not eligible. If you have a history of eye infections, you may want to take extra precautions for PRK to work. Aside from that, the care before and after will determine the outcome.
To know more about PRK, visit Laser Vision Delaware at our offices in Wilmington, Delaware. You can also call 302-656-2020 to book an appointment today.
