What PRK is and who it is for
Clear vision matters for daily activities and quality of life, yet many people have refractive errors: nearsightedness, farsightedness or astigmatism. These can be corrected with glasses or contact lenses. For people who want a longer-term alternative, laser vision correction is one option.
Photorefractive keratectomy (PRK) is a well-established laser vision correction procedure that has been in use for over two decades. It is suitable for selected patients with nearsightedness, farsightedness or astigmatism and aims to reduce their dependence on glasses or contact lenses.
How the eye focuses
When we look at an object, light enters the eye through the cornea, the clear outer layer. The cornea bends the light and focuses it on the retina at the back of the eye, which converts it into electrical signals the brain interprets as images. When the cornea's shape is irregular, light is not focused precisely on the retina and vision is blurred. Nearsightedness, farsightedness and astigmatism are all the result of this mismatch.
The procedure
PRK reshapes the cornea to correct refractive errors. A laser removes a small amount of tissue from the surface of the cornea, changing its curvature so that light focuses more accurately on the retina. Unlike LASIK or SMILE, no incision is made and no flap is created.
PRK is an outpatient procedure that typically takes about 30 minutes in total. Your eye is numbed with drops beforehand. You are awake throughout and may be given medication to help you relax. During the treatment your surgeon uses the laser to reshape the cornea.
After the procedure a bandage contact lens may be placed on the eye to protect it while the surface heals. Some discomfort and sensitivity to light are common for a few days. Your doctor prescribes medicated eye drops to reduce inflammation and prevent infection.
Key facts
- A surface laser procedure: no flap, no incision
- Reshapes the cornea to correct nearsightedness, farsightedness or astigmatism, from mild to severe
- Typically about 30 minutes as an outpatient
- Some discomfort and blurred vision are expected during the early recovery period
- Many patients notice clearer vision within a few days to a week, with vision continuing to stabilise over the following weeks
- Results are long-lasting for most patients
Is PRK right for me?
PRK can improve vision and reduce dependence on glasses or contact lenses, but not everyone is a good candidate. Your eye doctor carries out a thorough eye examination and medical history review before recommending it. PRK may not be recommended if you have:
- Thin or irregular corneas
- Severe dry eye
- An active eye infection or inflammation
- Pregnancy or breastfeeding
- Previous eye injury or eye surgery
- Degenerative or autoimmune disease
- Long-term use of certain medications
If PRK is not suitable for you, your eye doctor may discuss alternatives such as LASIK or SMILE.
Results and recovery
It can take several days to several weeks for vision to stabilise after PRK. During this time you may notice blurriness, haze or fluctuations in your vision. Most people notice a significant improvement within a few days to a week.
Most patients achieve good vision after PRK, but outcomes vary, and some people need a second procedure, called an enhancement, to reach the intended result. You will need to avoid rubbing your eyes and exposing them to irritants such as dust or wind for several weeks, and to avoid swimming and hot tubs for at least a week.
Risks and limitations
Discomfort, light sensitivity and blurred or fluctuating vision are expected in the early recovery period, and vision can take weeks to settle. The conditions listed above can increase the risk of complications. Your surgeon will discuss the risks that apply to you before you decide.
To find out whether PRK is a suitable option for your eyes, contact Spanish Eye Clinic in Dubai to arrange a consultation with one of our eye doctors.