PRK

PRK (photorefractive keratectomy) was at one time the most common laser eye surgery. It uses the same excimer laser as the LASIK procedure to reshape the outer layer of the cornea to correct for nearsightedness, farsightedness, and astigmatism. These days LASIK is more common, but PRK is still an alternative for patients who cannot undergo LASIK Surgery.

Reasons to consider PRK:

Nearsightedness (myopia).
Farsightedness (hyperopia.
Astigmatism (irregularly shaped cornea).
Cornea too thin for LASIK.
Pupil too large for LASIK.

The Procedure

In preparation for surgery, anesthetic eye drops are administered. Next, a speculum is placed in the eye to keep the eyelids open, which is normally not uncomfortable. While the patient fixes his or her gaze on a target, the laser reshapes the cornea by removing tissue (a process called ablation), which is controlled and closely monitored by the doctor. The laser is actually guided by a detailed map of the patient’s eye which has been programmed into a computer beforehand. The ablation usually takes around a minute for each eye, depending on how high the patient’s vision prescription is. Most patients feel no pain during the procedure. After the procedure is complete, a bandage contact lens is placed on the eye. The patient may go home shortly after the procedure; however, someone else must drive or alternate transportation must be arranged.

The Recovery

The doctor may prescribe pain medication for recovery; however, most patients don’t require it since only minor discomfort is experienced. The doctor will also schedule several check-up appointments to monitor the healing process, followed by periodic visits over the next several months. During the recovery process, the patient should rest, and refrain from any strenuous activities for at least a week. Most patients can return to work in a day or two, though it is best to take a few days off to ensure a smooth recovery.

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Testimonials

"In the fall of 2006, my optometrist informed me that it was time for my cataracts to be removed, and she recommended Dr. Yee. An appointment was set up, and Dr. Yee reaffirmed the diagnosis. She explained that I was a candidate for a new lens that was available where a patient had a greater chance of not needing to wear glasses after surgery. I could even decide whether I would like to have most of my improvement in my near or far vision. The length of the surgery and the recuperation would be the same as having the normal cataract surgery. I had been wearing glasses from morning to night for years and the possibility of not needing to wear glasses was intriguing. I pondered the extra cost of the ReSTOR® lenses and decided in favor of the newer replacements. In November the cataract in my right eye was removed; a ReSTOR® lens was implanted. I was awake during the procedure, which only took about fifteen minutes. Immediately everything seemed brighter and that evening I was reading the newspaper without glasses. Improvement in both my near and far vision had been achieved. A similar procedure was performed on my left eye in December. As a teenager I was diagnosed with Ambliopia (Lazy Eye) in my left eye. The successful improvement in that eye far surpassed what Dr. Yee and I had hoped.

Shopping at Christmas without glasses was much more pleasant without focusing my trifocals to read sizes and price tags. I don't miss glasses, which fogged up or slipped in the heat. At first it was odd seeing myself in the mirror without glasses, but I have learned to appreciate a younger person looking back at me."

-Marion Young October 16, 2007

"In the summer of 2007, I noticed my eye sight deteriorating when I would read. My Optometrist had told me several years ago that I had the start of cataracts in the corners of my eyes. In the fall of 2007, a family member recommended Dr. Yee.

Dr. Yee examined my eyes and told me I had cataracts that were ready to be removed. She explained that there were two different types of lenses available for my eyes. After much consideration and Dr. Yee's recommendation, I decided on the ReSTOR® lenses. I really wanted to have the benefit of not wearing glasses and I was willing to take the chance and pay the extra costs.

The surgery took approximately 20 minutes and was painless. I was awake during the whole procedure and was very comfortable and relaxed due to Dr. Yee and her staff making me feel at ease. My husband was very surprised to see me after surgery, because my eye looked like it had nothing done to it. My eye was not blood shot and I felt great!

I would like to thank Dr. Yee for recommending the ReSTOR® lenses, I now have 20/20 vision in both eyes and do not need to wear glasses."

-Patricia Naftzger