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ABOUT PRK

PRK, known medically as photorefractive keratectomy, is a type of laser eye surgery used for laser vision correction of nearsightedness, farsightedness and astigmatism.  PRK differs from LASIK in that it does not involve the creation of a corneal flap. PRK has a longer recovery versus LASIK eye surgery due to no flap being created, but is a better option for those with high prescriptions, thin corneas, or those likely to be hit in the eye (due to sports).

 

 By eliminating the flap creation step, the risk of flap complications is eliminated allowing for a very safe, very precise correction. CustomVisionâ„¢  is a refinement in nomograms and wavefront laser eye surgery technology by Dr. Brian Stahl at Stahl Vision Dayton Ohio,  to achieve high contrast vision and can be done with PRK.

WHY PRK?

 

Some patients with thinner corneas, high prescriptions, or certain occupations may not be candidates for LASIK.  For these patients PRK may be the best option.

YOUR PRK PROCEDURE

 

Procedure day you will be given a small amount of Valium to ease your nerves. In preparation for your procedure, your technicain will place anesthetic numbing drops in your eye. Once the drops have set in your surgeon will then put in place an eyelid holder, known as a speculum, to prevent blinking. At this time Drs. Stahl or Knowles will then gently remove your epithelium, which is a thin layer of your cornea. By removing your epithelium, the laser will be able to send out millions of laser pulses to reshape your cornea. After the treatment is completed your surgeon will place a clear contact on your eye, this contact works as a bandage. This thin contact bandage is there for your comfort and to help your eye heal. It usually takes three to five days for the epithelium to re-grow over the cornea. During the re-growth period you may experience mild discomfort, which is normal and should be expected. Typically,  your surgeon will remove the contact at your one week appointment. Although the recovery takes longer, and you hav to be patient with the return of your vision, the visual results are the same as LASIK after three months.

 

 

PRK: 3 simple steps

  1. Your surgeon will begin by gently removing a thin layer of your cornea, known as the epithelium.

  2. The laser is then programmed to your eyes unique measurements, and begins to treat the surface of your eye. The laser treatment reshapes the cornea to make the necessary changes to correct your vision.

  3.  Your surgeon will then place a clear contact to work as a bandage on your eye. This is done to make it comfortable for you and to allow healing time. This contact is typically removed at your one week appointment by your surgeon.

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