Photorefractive Keratectomy (PRK)

Performed since the 1980s, photorefractive keratectomy (PRK) – also called advanced surface ablation – has been long-established as a safe and effective refractive procedure. A predecessor to LASIK, PRK uses an excimer laser to reshape the surface of the cornea without the creation of a corneal flap. This procedure can correct nearsightedness, farsightedness, and astigmatism with results that can be more precise than corrective lenses. Laser eye surgery pioneer Dr. David Schanzlin performs PRK procedures in San Diego for patients who want vision correction but are not good candidates for LASIK.

If you are bothered by any of these vision problems and would like to learn more about your treatment options, request a consultation online, or call the UC San Diego Shiley Eye Center at (858) 822-2566.

PRK or LASIK?

Both PRK and LASIK are considered refractive eye surgeries and both use an excimer laser to ablate (remove) small amounts of tissue from the cornea to reshape it. When the cornea is properly shaped, light is focused through the pupil and lens and onto the retina, resulting in clear vision. PRK and LASIK have similar outcomes as well, with most patients achieving 20/20 or better vision. However, PRK and LASIK differ slightly, and Dr. Schanzlin and his team of highly trained professionals will carefully assess which procedure is best for your eyes and your lifestyle.

Unlike LASIK, PRK does not create a permanent flap in the deeper corneal layers, so the cornea’s structural integrity is left intact. This is an important consideration for patients who participate in high impact sports or activities that put them at high risk for eye injuries. PRK may also be a better choice for patients with thin corneas or other corneal irregularities.

Important Considerations

It is important to keep three things in mind when you are considering LASIK :

• What is the experience and skill of the surgeon?
  
  If a surgeon is not qualified the risk of possible issues with your surgery increase and you could have complications and a higher incidence of retreatment.
• What technology will be used?
  
  Technology is critical in order to have the best possible day and night vision, safest procedure and optimal outcome. At Shiley Eye Center, we are committed to staying at the forefront in laser eye surgery and use only state-of-the-art technology, including the ALLEGRETTO WAVE® and VISX® excimer lasers.

The Procedure

An outpatient procedure, PRK typically lasts less than 10 minutes per eye. Dr. Schanzlin begins by applying anesthetic eye drops to ensure comfort during the surgery. He then makes a small abrasion on the epithelium layer covering the cornea. A computerized 3D map of the surface of your cornea is used to guide the treatment in order to precisely remove only the necessary corneal tissue. The different maps that are taken of your eyes show even the tiniest aberrations, allowing for results that are often better than 20/20. Finally, he applies topical drops and a “bandage” contact lens to the surface of each treated eye to alleviate discomfort and encourage optimal long-term results.

After Surgery

During the first 3 days, the bandage lens helps accelerate healing and protects the eye. Dr. Schanzlin will also prescribe antibiotic and anti-inflammatory drops, which should be used strictly according to his instructions. He will also prescribe medication to reduce any eye discomfort that may be experienced the first few days following surgery.

By day 3, the bandage lens will be removed, and over the next couple of weeks you should be seeing much more clearly. Within a week, you should be able to return to work and be allowed to drive; vision should be sharp in 6 to 8 weeks. Final results are usually achieved after 3 to 6 months.