By Eoin Colfer 
PRK (photorefractive keratectomy) refractive vision surgery is a kind of laser eyesight surgery used to fix refractive mistakes such as myopia, hyperopia, and astigmatism. This procedure has been in use since the 1980s and is a popular choice for people who want to improve their vision without needing glasses or contact lenses. Read to learn more about PRK refractive eye surgery in Shreveport, LA.
How PRK Refractive Eye Surgery Works
PRK refractive eye surgery uses a laser to reshape the cornea, the clear front part of the eye. The laser removes a thin layer of tissue from the cornea’s surface, which allows the cornea to be reshaped and the incoming light to be properly focused on the retina. This correction of the corneal shape leads to a significant improvement in the patient’s vision.
Preparing for PRK Refractive Eye Surgery
Before the surgery, the patient will undergo a comprehensive eye examination to ensure they are a good candidate for the procedure. Patients with certain eye conditions, such as dry eye or corneal abnormalities, may not be suitable for PRK refractive eye surgery. The patient will also need to stop wearing contact lenses for a specified period before the surgery.
The PRK Refractive Eye Surgery Procedure
The PRK refractive eye surgery typically takes 10-15 minutes per eye. The patient will receive anesthetic eye drops to numb the eyes and keep them comfortable during the procedure. The surgeon will then use a special laser to remove the thin layer of tissue from the cornea, reshape it, and improve the patient’s vision.
Recovery and Postoperative Care
After the surgery, the patient will need to rest for a few hours before going home. They will need to wear a protective eye shield for a few days and use eye drops to prevent infection and reduce inflammation. The patient may experience some discomfort and blurry vision during the first few days of recovery, but this will gradually improve.
Conclusion
PRK refractive eye surgery is a safe and effective way to correct refractive errors and improve vision. It is a popular choice for people who want to reduce their dependence on glasses or contact lenses. Proper preparation makes the procedure relatively quick and simple, and the recovery time is short. While risks and complications are associated with PRK refractive eye surgery, these are rare, and most patients experience a significant improvement in their vision after the procedure. If you are considering PRK refractive eye surgery, talk to your eye doctor to find out if you are a good candidate for the course.