Photorefractive Keratectomy (PRK)

Preparing for PRK

Preparing for PRK involves several steps to ensure your best possible outcome. In the weeks leading up to your surgery, it’s crucial to have a consultation at our office where we will perform a thorough eye exam, assessing your overall eye health while our ophthalmologists will determine if you are a good candidate for surgery.

Prior to your visit you will need to discontinue wearing contact lenses and wear your glasses to the consultation:

• Hard contacts (RGP, Scleral) for at least 2 weeks
• Soft contacts (Monthly, Dailies, etc) for at least 3-5 days

It’s important to follow these instructions before your consultation as contacts can alter the shape of the cornea, which could potentially cause inaccurate measurements for surgery.

It’s also imperative to discuss any medications being taken, as some might affect healing and potential outcomes. Once surgery is scheduled prescription drops will be called into your local pharmacy. A few days before surgery, make sure to pick up the prescribed antibiotics and anti-inflammatory eye drops from the pharmacy along with Preservative Free artificial tears and arrange for transportation home, as you won’t be allowed to drive immediately following surgery. On the day of surgery, you should avoid drinking caffeinated beverages, and arrive with a clean face, free of makeup, lotions, or perfumes. We also ask that you not wear your contact lenses or any jewelry on the day of surgery. Proper preparation can significantly contribute to smooth surgery and optimal healing post-operatively.

What to Expect During PRK Surgery

PRK is performed using advanced laser technology in our state-of-the-art surgical suite. When you arrive, we’ll offer you a relaxing oral medication followed by anesthetic eye drops to ensure you’re comfortable and that your eyes are numb. The surgeon will begin by delicately removing a thin layer of corneal tissue known as the epithelium. Utilizing the precision of the excimer laser, the corneal tissue beneath is reshaped, and tailored to the distinctive contours of your X Trusted Source Photorefractive Keratectomy (PRK) Eye Surgery Cleveland Clinic Go to Source eye. A protective bandage contact lens is then placed on the eye, facilitating comfort and swift healing.

Recovery After PRK

During PRK recovery, your cornea undergoes healing and regeneration. In the initial days post-surgery, you may experience mild to moderate discomfort, which can include a gritty feeling in the eyes, light sensitivity, and a degree of blurriness. Pain-relieving eye drops, preservative-free artificial tears, oral medications like Tylenol or Ibuprofen and a cool compress may be used to alleviate these sensations. A bandage contact is placed in each eye for comfort and to assist healing until the epithelium, or the outer layer of the cornea, is adequately regenerated before being removed at your first post-operative appointment. Using the prescribed antibiotic and anti-inflammatory eye drops is crucial to prevent infections and reduce inflammation. Frequent use of preservative free artificial tears, daily use of vitamin c and wearing sunglasses while outdoors is just as important for a smooth recovery. During the first week after surgery, it’s important for patients to avoid rubbing their eyes, wear the nighttime goggles we provided and refrain from strenuous activities. You should also avoid swimming for 1 month following surgery. You may notice vision fluctuations and gradual improvement in vision each week as you heal, complete visual stabilization can take up to 3-6 months. Post-operative visits will be scheduled to monitor your healing, ensuring recovery is on track so keeping these appointments are imperative in your outcome.