PRK surgery is a type of refractive eye surgery that helps to definitely correct the degree of vision problems such as myopia, farsightedness or astigmatism. It works by changing the shape of the cornea using a laser that corrects the curvature of the cornea, helping to improve vision.
This surgery has many similarities with Lasik surgery, however, some steps of the procedure are different in each technique, and although this surgery appeared before Lasik surgery and has a longer postoperative period, it is still used in many cases, especially in people with thin corneas. To know more details about Lasik surgery.
Although it is a safe surgery and provides excellent results for the vision, it is still possible to have the risk of post-operative complications, such as infection, corneal lesions or alterations of vision, for example, and to avoid it is necessary to take some care how to use prescribed eyedrops, sleep with special protective goggles and avoid swimming in public places for 1 month.
How is the surgery done
PRK surgery is done without general anesthesia and therefore the person is awake throughout the treatment. In order to reduce pain and discomfort, anesthetic eye drops are used to numb the eye a few minutes before starting the procedure.
To perform the surgery, the doctor places a device to keep the eye open and then uses a substance that helps remove the thinner and more superficial layer of the cornea.
Then, a computer controlled laser is used which sends light impulses to the eye, helping to correct the curvature of the cornea. At this time it is possible to feel a slight increase in pressure in the eye, however, it is a quick sensation because the procedure takes about 5 minutes.
Finally, lenses are applied over the eyes to replace the thin layer of cornea that has been removed from the eye. These lenses, besides protecting the eyes from dust, help prevent infections and speed recovery.
Price of PRK surgery
The price of PRK surgery can vary between 3, 000 and 5, 000 reais, depending on the location chosen for the surgery. However, in some cases indicated, as in very high degrees, the surgery can be done by the SUS, not having any cost.
How is the recovery in the postoperative period?
After surgery is very common the appearance of discomfort in the eye, with sensation of dust, burning and itching, for example. These symptoms are normal due to inflammation of the eye and usually disappear after 2 to 4 days.
To protect the eye, during surgery, special lenses are placed which act as a dressing, so it is recommended to take care during the first few days, such as not rubbing the eyes, resting the eyes and wearing dark glasses outdoors.
In addition, other important cares include:
First 24 hours
- Avoid wetting the eyes during bathing;
- Properly use eyedrops prescribed by the doctor;
- Do not watch television or use the computer if the eyes are dry;
- Do not consume alcoholic beverages.
General care
- Wear special safety goggles to sleep during the time recommended by your ophthalmologist to avoid scratching or injuring your eyes during sleep;
- Use prescribed anti-inflammatory medicines, such as ibuprofen, to relieve headaches and eye pain;
- After the first 24 hours, you should wash your head during the bath with your eyes closed;
- You should only drive again after the doctor's appointment;
- Make-up can be re-used about 2 weeks after surgery and should be applied with care;
- You should not swim for 1 month and you should avoid using jacuzzis for 2 weeks;
- One should never try to remove the lenses placed in the eyes during the surgery. These lenses are removed by the doctor about 1 week after surgery.
Day-to-day activities can be resumed slowly after 1 week, however, those with higher impact, such as sports, should be resumed only with the physician's indication.
PRK Surgery Risks
PRK surgery is quite safe and therefore complications are rare. However, one of the most common problems is the appearance of scars on the cornea, which worsens vision and creates a very blurred image. This problem though is rare, can be easily corrected with the use of steroid eye drops.
In addition, as with any surgery, there is a high degree of infection and therefore it is very important to always use the antibiotic eye drops prescribed by the doctor and to take care of the hygiene of the eyes and hands during the recovery period. Check out the 7 essential care to protect vision.
Difference between PRK surgery and Lasik
The main difference between these two types of surgery is in the first steps of the technique, because while in PRK surgery the thinner layer of the cornea is removed to allow the passage of the laser in Lasik surgery, only a small opening is made in a more layer of the cornea.
Thus, although they have very similar results, PRK surgery is recommended for those who have a thinner cornea, because in this technique, it is not necessary to make a deeper cut. However, since a thin layer of the cornea is removed, the recovery is slower to allow that layer to regrow naturally.
In addition, while the result of surgery is faster to appear, in PRK the expected result may take up to 6 months to emerge due to the progressive growth of the thin layer of cornea.
