Photorefractive keratectomy (PRK), commonly referred to as Laser Vision Correction (LVC) is a remarkable new medical development which can eliminate or significantly reduce the need for glasses or contact lenses in patients with nearsightedness. Laser vision correction utilizes the micro-precision of a computer controlled excimer laser to reshape the outer surface of the cornea and thus correct nearsightedness in a matter of seconds.
After many years of research studies, laser vision correction has been approved by the Food and Drug Administration (FDA). The laser is already in use in 45 countries with several hundred thousand people already having had their nearsightedness treated.
PRK (photorefractive keratectomy) involves the direct application of the excimer laser beam to the corneal surface to reshape the cornea. The cornea is made flatter to treat nearsightedness, steeper to treat farsightedness and/or more spherical to correct astigmatism.
With PRK, there is high predictability for an excellent outcome; however, there is irritation or mild discomfort for one to two days following the procedure, until the surface has regenerated. Once this area is the eye is comfortable and the vision begins to improve. Recovery time for good visual acuity after undergoing PRK is usually 3 days to a week, but best vision may not be achieved for up to three months. Both eyes are not treated on the same day.
The laser produces an invisible beam of ultraviolet light which can remove microscopic amounts of corneal tissue without causing damage to surrounding cells. This elegant surgical tool is so precise it can etch microscopic layers off a human hair. To achieve most corrections, a microscopic amount of corneal tissue-approximately a third the thickness of a human hair-is sculpted from the surface of the cornea. The beam is precisely directed onto the surface of the eye in a series of 10 pulses per second. Each pulse removes a quarter of a micron of tissue (one hundred thousandths of an inch). The laser correction is thus extremely precise.
The laser is specifically programmed for your prescription. The treatment which lasts less then 30 seconds is painless. the discomfort after correction, which is usually mild, lasts approximately 36-48 hours and is generally relieved with pain medications.
Laser vision correction has achieved excellent results with the majority of patients no longer dependent on corrective lenses after the treatment. After one year, over 98% of people with mild to moderate nearsightedness who had undergone laser vision correction in the FDA Clinical Trials had vision good enough to pass a drivers' license vision test without corrective lenses. Since the final result depends on your own healing process, the end result cannot be guaranteed. However, the lower the degree of correction required, the better the probability of achieving the desired results. Some people will not be able to totally eliminate their need for corrective lenses but should be able to use much lower strength prescription and use for only certain tasks-thus significantly improving ones lifestyle.
As with any surgical procedure there are potential risks and side effects. they are rare but should be discussed by your surgeon or eye care specialist. See Q & A.
