PRK

Surface Ablation (PRK)

What is Surface Ablation?

Surface ablation is also called photorefractive keratectomy (PRK), LASEK and epi-LASIK.

Surface ablation is a procedure which uses the energy of the excimer laser to create a flattening of the cornea (in myopia/nearsightedness) or a steepening of the cornea (in hyperopia/farsightedness).  This is similar to its surgical counterpart LASIK.  A flap is not made with surface ablation; rather the superficial corneal tissue, the epithelium, is removed.  This is performed using topical anesthesia (eye drops).  Once the epithelium is removed, the laser will gently reshape the cornea.

Why perform surface ablation and not LASIK?

This procedure is safer in certain patients.  The most common reasons for having this procedure include having corneas that are too thin for LASIK, previous scarring, deep-set or small eyes, and weak surface tissue.

For thin corneas surface ablation is preferred.  Because LASIK typically requires the treatment to be deeper, these patients would be at risk for developing a serious progressive corneal thinning called ectasia.  Surface ablation would reduce that risk.

For some patients with previous scarring on the cornea, making a LASIK flap may be a bigger risk.

Patients with extremely deep-set or small eyes may not be able to have LASIK.  It may be difficult or impossible to apply the appropriate instrumentation required to create the flap for LASIK.

Patients with weak surface tissue or a history of recurrent erosions may need surface ablation to reduce the risk of having a poor or irregular LASIK flap which could lead to poor vision.

What should I expect after surface ablation?

Expect a slower recovery to full vision that LASIK.  During the recover you may find that you have the following symptoms

• Redness
• Discomfort with mild to significant pain
• Tearing
• Light Sensitivity
• Blurred Vision

As the eyes heal, these symptoms will improve.  Having surface ablation on both eyes on the same day may prohibit you from returning to work or driving immediately.  It may take up to five days for you to be able to return to full function.  Swimming/water sports, eye make-up and eye rubbing are NOT advised for at least two weeks following the procedure.

What is the post-operative care for eyes after surface ablation?

After the laser treatment, a soft contact lens will be placed on the eye for up to six days.  Frequent visits will be necessary to follow your progress.  Antibiotic and anti-inflammatory eye drops may be necessary for at least one to two weeks and preservative-free artificial tears will need to be used frequently for at least one month.  Steroid eye drops may be used for up to two months to regulate healing.

Is wavefront-guided CustomVue available for surface treatment?

Yes!  Studies show that customized or wavefront treatments give superior vision with the least amount of enhancements.