Refractive Surgery

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Introduction

Photorefractive Keratectomy (PRK) / Advanced Surface Ablation (ASA)

PRK/ASA is a laser procedure that effectively corrects nearsightedness, farsightedness and astigmatism without the use of the blade used in the traditional LASIK procedure.

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Candidates

Candidates for PRK/ASA

This procedure is ideal for patients who:

• Are over the age of 18
• Have a stable eye prescription
• Have no major health issues
• Seek to improve nearsightedness, farsightedness or astigmatism

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Benefits

Benefits of PRK/ASA

This procedure offers patients many benefits over LASIK, including an elimination of flap complications and reduced risk of dry eye after surgery.

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The Procedure

The PRK/ASA Procedure

PRK/ASA takes about 30 minutes to perform and is done on an outpatient basis using only anesthetic eye drops. During the procedure, your surgeon will first remove the surface layer of the eye (epithelium). Once the epithelium is removed, the cornea is then carefully reshaped with a laser to correct vision. The advanced laser used during this procedure customizes vision correction for each individual patient to ensure successful results. A bandage contact lens is then placed over the eye to promote proper healing.

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Recovery

Recovery from PRK/ASA

After the PRK/ASA procedure, patients will be able to go home, although someone will need to drive you home. The bandage contact lens will be worn for 5-7 days. Eye drops will be prescribed to prevent infection and keep the eyes moisturized. In most cases, patients can return to work the next day, although strenuous exercise should be avoided for at least a week.

Patients will notice an improvement in vision within the first few days after surgery, with full results gradually developing over the course of six months.

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Results

PRK/ASA Results

Some patients may still require glasses or contact lenses after treatment. It is important to note that PRK/ASA does not correct presbyopia, the natural change in the eyes that occurs after the age of 40, so older patients will still need reading glasses after surgery.

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Learn More

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