The New Age of Refractive Surgery

People on every continent are now experiencing a clearer view of the world. With the invention of the excimer laser, patients no longer have to depend on glasses and contact lenses for vision correction. Refractive surgery is helping people lead more active, carefree lives. For many, Photo-Refractive Keratectomy (PRK) represented the first step in this direction. The excimer laser's contribution to vision correction lies in its ability to correct refractive errors. Although results may vary, the accuracy of this laser, combined with the latest in computer technology, has made PRK an extremely successful procedure.

Photo-Refractive Keratectomy (PRK)

Nearsightedness, farsightedness and astigmatism can all be successfully treated today with PRK. Harnessing the precision of the excimer laser, in PRK, gentle pulses of ultraviolet light reshape the cornea, improving the eye's ability to refract light. The tissue surrounding the cornea is unharmed by this process. Because PRK does not involve making incisions, the cornea's structure is left intact. The excimer laser reshapes the cornea in less than one minute and the whole PRK procedure usually lasts less than 30 minutes. PRK is usually performed on an outpatient basis. Although an anesthetic (in the form of an eye drop) is applied during PRK, patients may experience slight discomfort following the procedure. This normally subsides as the epithelium (or outer area of the cornea) heals, typically between 48-72 hours. Patients may experience marked improvement in vision within a few days, while for others this process takes weeks or even months. However, patients normally return to their usual routines within a few days.

While LASIK is the most advanced procedure and treatment of choice for vision correction available today, Dr. Rende can help determine what’s best for you, based on your lifestyle and other factors.

Am I a Candidate for PRK?

PRK is ideal for patients over the age of 18 whose corneas are healthy and strong. If your prescription has increased significantly within the past year, you should consider delaying your PRK procedure. The PRK procedure should not be performed on patients who suffer from certain medical conditions, nor on pregnant women.

Expectations

What's The First Step?

Dr. Rende will be able to determine your level of refractive error at the time of your consultation. If your refractive error falls within the parameters considered appropriate for PRK, more extensive tests will be performed. If it is concluded that you are not a good PRK candidate, you may still be able to pursue other refractive procedures for vision correction. Again, Dr. Rende can help you decide what is best for your individual vision needs.

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