Do’s and Don’ts After PRK Surgery

If you have been longing to see more clearly but have been told you cannot have LASIK, you may think you have no options other than glasses or contacts. Fortunately, PRK surgery offers all the benefits of laser eye surgery for people who cannot have other forms of this procedure for a variety of reasons.

What is PRK Surgery?

PRK (photorefractive keratectomy) is a form of laser eye surgery. This type of vision correction works by using a laser to alter the shape of the clear structure called the cornea. As light passes through the cornea, it is bent to focus on the back of your eye for clear vision. If this focus is off, the result is blurred vision at various distances. PRK corrects astigmatism, farsightedness, and nearsightedness. . 

How Does PRK Work?

Like other forms of laser eye surgery, PRK works by reshaping the cornea. To give the laser access, your eye surgeon removes the outermost layer of the cornea (the epithelium). The laser then removes microscopically thin layers of corneal tissue to create a shape that will focus light correctly. Our advanced laser system tracks your motions so precisely that it will move with your eyes or stop immediately if you cough, sneeze, or otherwise move your head. 

Do’s and Don’ts After PRK Surgery

Because PRK removes the entire corneal epithelium, your eye surgeon will apply a medication to help your cornea heal without scarring, then place a contact lens that acts as a bandage over the eye. This lens is usually removed after three to five days, and you will start enjoying clearer vision around this time. As the outer layer of your cornea regrows, following your recovery instructions will help you achieve your best results. 

DO:

• Use your eye drops as directed and as often as directed
• Be patient while your results develop over about a month
• Wear sunglasses outside and even indoors if bright lights bother you
• Attend all your scheduled follow-up appointments
• Discuss any concerns with your eye surgeon

DON’T

• Touch or rub your eyes
• Use anything in your eyes not prescribed by your eye surgeon
• Swim or get water in your eyes
• Expose your eyes to dusty or smoky air
• Engage in strenuous activities until your eye surgeon approves it
• Apply eye makeup, creams, or other products around the eyes

Am I a Candidate for PRK Surgery?

While PRK has a longer recovery time than LASIK, you may be a candidate even if LASIK is not right for you. Reasons you might be a good candidate for PRK include:

• You have frequent problems with dry eye
• You engage in contact sports
• Your prescription is too strong for LASIK
• You have abnormal or thin corneas

Only a consultation can determine whether PRK is the best solution for you. Even if this procedure does not meet your needs, we have other options to help you explore 

Take the Next Step

If you’d like to learn more about PRK surgery, schedule a consultation with our Heart of Texas Eye Care team, serving Dripping Springs, Austin, Kyle, Bee Cave, Marble Falls, and other surrounding areas. Contact us at (512) 213-2220 today!

*Individual results may vary