PRK is short for Photorefractive Keratectomy. PRK is an outpatient procedure lasting about 15 minutes. It begins with the gentle removal of the outer protective layer of the cornea (the epithelium). The VISX® Star S4 IR Excimer Laser, guided by Advanced CustomVue™ WaveFront then removes the appropriate amount of corneal tissue with a series of cool, computer-controlled laser pulses. Each pulse removes a microscopic amount of tissue without cutting or burning.
After your PRK treatment is completed, a contact lens is placed on the cornea to promote healing, and several types of drops are given. You should return home and rest for several hours.
A contact lens is needed until the epithelium heals. This typically happens within three to four days. Eye discomfort and irritation may be present until the contact lens are removed. While the contact lens is in place, you will need to use several types of drops. These usually minimize any discomfort you may experience, and promote healing.
