PRK ( Photorefractive Keratectomy ) is a treatment method that corrects refractive errors like Lasik . Unlike the lasik technique, which is still the most widely used, in the PRK method a thin layer ( flap ) is not created with an incision in the cornea, the laser starts directly from the outer surface. PRK surgery is the process of applying the Excimer laser to the underlying tissue by scraping the thin living tissue called the epithelium at the top of the cornea. At the end of the operation, a transparent and unnumbered contact lens is attached to the eye for a few days to protect the corneal surface. The process of getting good vision goes to Lasik and can take up to 3-4 weeks. About 2-4 days after the operation are painful and uncomfortable, the reason is that the healing of the epithelial tissue is complete during this period.
Lasek is based on the principle of removing epithelial tissue from the eye using alcohol. Once the laser is applied, it propagates towards the epithelium. Although both of these surface methods achieve safe results, patients may experience burning, stinging, and watering for 2-3 days. Vision becomes clear in 1 week-10 days on average.
Characteristics of the PRK and LASEK methods:
- Although the ocular grade is small (up to 3 degrees of myopia and astigmatism), it is recommended for certain ocular structures whose corneal thickness is not suitable for Lasik.
- The eye is anesthetized only with drops, as in the Lasik method.
- The patient does not feel pain during the operation.
- Contact lenses are worn in order to recover the epithelium and protect the eye, and they are removed under the supervision of the doctor 3-4 days after the operation.