Best Photorefractive Keratectomy (PRK) surgery at Medicover
Photorefractive Keratectomy (PRK) is a type of refractive eye surgery designed to correct common vision problems, such as nearsightedness (myopia), farsightedness (hyperopia), and astigmatism. PRK reshapes the cornea, the clear front surface of the eye, using a laser to improve the way light enters the eye and focuses on the retina.
What It Does: PRK surgery aims to reduce or eliminate the need for glasses or contact lenses by reshaping the cornea's curvature. The procedure improves the eye's ability to focus light, resulting in clearer vision without the need for corrective lenses.
Indications of PRK Surgery Procedure:
- Indications: PRK surgery is suitable for individuals with:
- Nearsightedness (myopia)
- Farsightedness (hyperopia)
- Astigmatism
- Individuals seeking to reduce their dependence on glasses or contact lenses.
- Purpose: The primary purposes of PRK surgery are:
- Vision Correction: To correct refractive errors and improve visual acuity.
- Reduced Dependency: To reduce or eliminate the need for glasses or contact lenses.
- Improved Quality of Life: To enhance daily functioning and overall quality of life by improving vision.
Who will treat for PRK Surgery Procedure:
- Medical Professionals: PRK surgery is performed by:
- Ophthalmologists
- Refractive surgeons
- Whom to Contact:
- Ophthalmology Clinics: Reach out to clinics or medical centers specializing in refractive surgery. They can provide information and schedule consultations for PRK surgery.
Preparing for PRK Surgery Procedure:
Preparing for PRK surgery involves several steps to ensure a successful procedure and smoother recovery:
- Consultation: Schedule a consultation with the ophthalmologist or refractive surgeon who will perform the surgery. Discuss your medical history, medications, allergies, and any concerns you may have.
- Eye Examination: The ophthalmologist will conduct a comprehensive eye examination to assess your eye health, measure refractive errors, and determine your candidacy for PRK.
- Medication Review: Inform the medical team about any medications you're taking, especially blood thinners or anticoagulants, as they might need to be adjusted before the surgery.
- Eye Health: Ensure your eyes are in good health and free from infections or inflammation before the surgery.
- Arrangements: Arrange for transportation to and from the clinic or hospital on the day of the surgery, as your vision might be temporarily affected.
- Contact Lens Discontinuation: If you wear contact lenses, you might need to stop wearing them for a specified period before the surgery to ensure corneal measurements are accurate.
- Consent: Understand and sign the informed consent form, which outlines the procedure, potential risks, and benefits.
- Questions: Prepare any questions you have about the procedure, expectations, and post-surgery care to discuss with your ophthalmologist.
What Happens During PRK (Photorefractive Keratectomy) Surgery:
During a PRK surgery procedure, the following steps generally take place:
- Anesthetic Eye Drops: You'll be positioned in a reclined chair, and numbing eye drops will be administered to ensure your comfort. You'll be awake during the procedure.
- Epithelium Removal: The surgeon will use a gentle brush or alcohol solution to remove the outer layer of the cornea, known as the epithelium. This step exposes the underlying corneal tissue for reshaping.
- orneal Reshaping: A cool ultraviolet (UV) laser beam is used to precisely reshape the cornea's curvature. The laser removes microscopic layers of corneal tissue to correct the refractive error.
- Laser Control: During the procedure, you might focus on a blinking light, and the laser's pulses are controlled by a computer. The laser treatment usually lasts a few seconds to a minute, depending on the extent of the correction.
- Bandage Contact Lens: After the cornea is reshaped, a bandage contact lens might be placed over the eye to protect the healing cornea and provide comfort during the initial healing phase.
- Observation and Post-Op Instructions: You'll be provided with specific post-operative instructions for eye care, medication, and follow-up appointments.
Recovery After PRK (Photorefractive Keratectomy) Surgery Procedure:
Recovery after PRK surgery varies based on individual factors and the extent of the procedure. Here's a general outline of what to expect:
- Rest: Rest your eyes on the day of the surgery. Your vision might be blurry, and your eyes might feel irritated.
- Medications: Use prescribed eye drops as directed to prevent infection, reduce inflammation, and promote healing.
- Bandage Contact Lens: The bandage contact lens will protect the cornea as it heals. The surgeon will remove it after a few days.
- Follow-Up Appointments: Attend scheduled follow-up appointments to monitor your healing progress and ensure there are no complications.
- Temporary Vision Changes: Vision improvements might take a few days to weeks. Initially, your vision might be blurry or hazy, but it will gradually improve.
- Activity Restrictions: Avoid strenuous activities, swimming, and exposing your eyes to dusty or dirty environments during the initial healing phase.
Lifestyle Changes After PRK (Photorefractive Keratectomy) Surgery Procedure:
- Eye Care: Follow the post-operative care instructions provided by your ophthalmologist to ensure proper healing and minimize the risk of infection.
- Avoid Rubbing: Avoid rubbing or touching your eyes during the healing phase to prevent complications.
- Sunglasses: Protect your eyes from bright sunlight or harsh lights by wearing sunglasses when outdoors.
- Contact Lenses: If you wore contact lenses before the surgery, discuss with your ophthalmologist when you can safely resume wearing them.
- Hydration and Nutrition: Stay well-hydrated and maintain a balanced diet to support overall healing and recovery.
