An Introduction to Custom PRK
- Surgeons use PRK to correct your vision so you can enjoy freedom from contact lenses and glasses.
- Photorefractive keratectomy (PRK) is the original laser eye surgery.
- In certain cases, we use PRK to treat nearsightedness, farsightedness and astigmatism.
- PRK delivers particularly outstanding results for those who are nearsighted.
- Most patients have 20/20 vision or better a year after the procedure.
What Conditions Does Custom PRK Address?
Surgeons use Custom PRK to treat:
How Do You Know if Custom PRK Is Right for You?
Many people ask “what the difference is between PRK surgery and LASIK eye surgery?”
The difference is that we perform Custom PRK on the top surface of the cornea after removing or lifting the corneal epithelium rather than the corneal flap. Custom PRK is the right procedure for people with large pupils, or thin or structurally unique corneas, and for individuals involved in contact sports.
Therefore, if you are not a candidate for LASIK or SMILE, you may want to consider Custom PRK surgery instead. These procedures deliver the same result.
Preparing for Custom PRK Laser Eye Surgery
The success of your Custom PRK laser surgery lies with preparation. This includes careful screening by our vision care specialists to ensure that you are a good candidate, and stand to regain improved eyesight. To achieve this, you will also need to do your part by following pre-op instructions, and taking note of post-op care.
Preparing for bladeless or flapless surgeries like PRK is similar to LASIK:
- Patient screening: Undergo tests to determine the course of your PRK laser eye surgery treatment, and ensure that you are a good candidate.
- Restore cornea to original shape: Your eye surgeon will advise you to stop wearing your contact lenses in the days leading up to your PRK laser treatment. This prevents the cornea from distorting, which could lead to corneal swelling, complications, and persisting refractive errors.
- Pre-op intake: Right before your PRK laser eye surgery, you will be given anesthetic eye drops to numb your eye, and ensure your comfort and the overall success of the procedure.
- Understand post-op care: PRK laser eye surgery relies on state-of-the-art technology and equipment to correct your vision, and restore it to optimal health. But it’s only part one — complete results and improved quality of life are achieved with strict adherence to post-op care instructions. You will be instructed to rest for 2 to 3 hours, and may experience mild sensitivity or discomfort during this time. You will also need to see your doctor for post-op visits to monitor your recovery and progress.
Undergoing a PRK laser treatment can do wonders for your vision, mobility, and quality of life. At Clearview, our eye surgeons are committed to your safety and the success of your PRK laser eye surgery, from initial consultation to post-op care. We take great care to follow the highest PRK treatment standards, use the latest technology, and devote ourselves to excellent patient care and long-term vision health.
What Does Custom PRK Look Like?
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FAQs
Can individuals with thin corneas undergo Custom PRK?
Yes, individuals with thin corneas may be suitable candidates for Custom PRK (Photorefractive Keratectomy). Custom PRK involves less corneal tissue removal compared to some other laser eye surgeries, making it a potentially viable option for individuals with thinner corneas. During the initial consultation with our eye care professional, the thickness of your cornea will be assessed, and they will determine the most suitable vision correction procedure based on your eye characteristics and needs.
Can individuals with a history of eye infections undergo Custom PRK?
The eligibility of individuals with a history of eye infections for Custom PRK is typically assessed on a case-by-case basis. Our eye care professional will carefully evaluate the specific details of your medical history, including the nature and severity of past eye infections. Depending on the circumstances and the current health of your eyes, you may still be considered a candidate for Custom PRK. It is crucial to discuss your complete medical history, including any history of eye infections, with your eye care professional during the initial consultation to determine your suitability for the procedure.
What should I expect during the initial consultation for Custom PRK Laser Eye Surgery?
During the initial consultation for Custom PRK Laser Eye Surgery, you can expect a comprehensive eye examination. This examination assesses your eye health, measures your prescription, and evaluates the corneal thickness. Our eye care professional will discuss the potential benefits and risks of Custom PRK, address any questions or concerns you may have, and provide information about the procedure and the expected recovery process. This consultation allows for a personalized assessment to determine your eligibility and helps you make an informed decision about moving forward with Custom PRK.
Are the results of Custom PRK permanent, or might additional treatments be needed in the future?
While Custom PRK aims for long-lasting results, individual factors and age-related changes can impact vision over time. In some cases, additional treatments or enhancements might be needed in the future to maintain optimal visual acuity. Discussing the potential longevity of Custom PRK results and the possibility of future treatments with our eye care professional will provide a clearer understanding based on your specific circumstances.
What are the potential benefits of choosing Custom PRK over other laser eye surgeries?
Choosing Custom PRK offers personalized vision correction using advanced technology, addressing higher-order aberrations for enhanced visual quality. With advantages such as suitability for thin corneas, reduced risk of flap-related complications, and long-term stability, Custom PRK provides a versatile and precise alternative to other laser eye surgeries.
Is Custom PRK better than LASIK?
Both are excellent procedures with similar risk profiles and rates of success. The visual recovery of PRK can sometimes take longer and medicated eyedrops are used for a longer period. It is very patient dependent as to which procedure is best. This will be determined during your consultation and after reviewing final tests
How long does it take to recover from PRK eye surgery?
It can take up to 3 months. Initially for the first 3-5 days there may be some mild pain, light sensitivity, watering, discomfort, and fluctuating vision. Mild vision fluctuations may occur while the eye is healing for up to 3 months. Most people are visually functional during the healing process
Is PRK surgery painful?
PRK recovery is associated with some soreness and discomfort, but it can be well managed with cool compresses, artificial tears and over the counter painkillers
How many years does PRK last?
Your vision correction is permanent once your eyes have stabilized
Dear Dr. Kranemann, Many thanks in the nice, smooth and trouble free cataract surgery you carried out on both my eyes at Clearview Institute. I would like also to extend my thanks to all the staff of clearview. They are efficient, kind hearted and very helpful.
Dr. Kranemann is exceptionally intelligent and experienced. He is passionate about achieving perfect results for his patients, and proved it by correcting my father’s vision perfectly. We are very happy and grateful and highly recommend Dr. Kranemann.
Had the new vision correction procedure SMILE. WOW is all I can say. Life without glasses is amazing. Great surgeon and medical staff. Will refer his expertise on to family and friends.
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