Who is a Candidate for PRK Surgery?

PRK eye surgery is ideal for:

• Individuals with thin corneas who may not be eligible for LASIK.
• Patients with mild to moderate myopia, hyperopia, or astigmatism.
• Those experiencing chronic dry eyes, as PRK causes less post-surgical dryness compared to LASIK.
• Individuals involved in contact sports or professions where corneal flap-related complications from LASIK could be a concern.
• People who want a long-term solution for vision correction without undergoing LASIK.

PRK Eye Surgery Procedure

PRK laser surgery involves three main steps:

• Removal of the Epithelium

– The thin outer layer of the cornea (epithelium) is gently removed using a laser or alcohol solution.

• Reshaping the Cornea

– An excimer laser is used to reshape the corneal surface, correcting refractive errors.

• Healing & Recovery

– A special bandage contact lens is placed on the eye to promote healing and reduce discomfort. The epithelium naturally regenerates within a few days.

The procedure is quick, taking approximately 15 minutes per eye, and is performed under topical anesthesia to ensure a pain-free experience.

PRK vs. LASIK: Which is Better?

While both PRK eye surgery and LASIK offer effective vision correction, there are key differences:

• Corneal Thickness:

PRK is preferred for patients with thin corneas, as it does not require creating a corneal flap like LASIK.

• Healing Time:

PRK has a slightly longer recovery period since the epithelium needs to regenerate, whereas LASIK offers immediate visual improvement.

• Dry Eye Risk:

PRK has a lower risk of post-surgery dry eyes compared to LASIK.

• Suitability for Active Lifestyles:

PRK is recommended for athletes and military personnel due to the absence of a corneal flap, reducing the risk of flap-related complications.

Ultimately, the choice between PRK and LASIK depends on individual eye health, lifestyle, and personal preference.

PRK Eye Surgery Recovery & Healing Time

Recovery after PRK eye surgery typically follows these stages:

• First 3-5 Days:

The epithelium regenerates, and mild discomfort, light sensitivity, and blurry vision may occur.

• First Week:

The bandage contact lens is removed by the doctor, and vision gradually starts improving.

• 1-3 Weeks:

Clearer vision develops as the eyes heal.

• 3-6 Months:

Full vision stabilization occurs, with results being long-lasting.

Patients should follow post-operative care instructions, including using prescribed eye drops, avoiding bright lights, and refraining from rubbing their eyes for optimal healing.

What Are the Risk Factors of PRK Eye Surgery?

While PRK eye surgery is generally safe, some potential risks include:

• Temporary Discomfort:

Mild irritation and light sensitivity are common in the first few days.

• Delayed Vision Clarity:

Unlike LASIK, visual improvement takes a few weeks.

• Haze Formation:

Some patients may experience corneal haze, which is treatable with medicated eye drops.

• Dry Eyes:

Though less severe than LASIK, some dryness may occur during the healing phase.

Following proper post-operative care minimizes these risks and ensures the best possible results.

PRK Eye Surgery Cost in India

The cost of PRK eye surgery in India varies based on several factors, including:

• The hospital and surgeon’s expertise.

• The technology and laser system used.

• Pre-operative evaluations and post-operative care.

On average, PRK surgery costs between ₹30,000 to ₹60,000 per eye in India. Dr Agarwals Eye Hospital offers affordable and high-quality PRK treatment with advanced technology and experienced specialists.

Trans PRK Surgery – An Advanced No-Touch PRK Procedure

Trans PRK (Transepithelial Photorefractive Keratectomy) is an innovative, no-touch laser eye surgery technique that eliminates the need for alcohol or mechanical removal of the epithelium. Instead, the excimer laser removes the epithelium and reshapes the cornea in a single step, enhancing precision and reducing healing time. This method ensures greater comfort and faster recovery for patients.

PRK Surgery vs. Other Vision Correction Procedures

PRK is often compared to other vision correction procedures, such as:

• SMILE (Small Incision Lenticule Extraction)

 Suitable for high myopia, but PRK is better for patients with thinner corneas.

• ICL (Implantable Collamer Lens)

 A good alternative for those unsuitable for laser surgery.

• Refractive Lens Exchange (RLE):

Recommended for older individuals with presbyopia.

Each procedure has unique advantages, and the choice depends on the patient’s eye condition and lifestyle needs.

Why Choose Dr Agarwals Eye Hospital for PRK Treatment?

Dr Agarwals Eye Hospital is a trusted name in eye care, offering:

• Advanced PRK laser eye surgery with advanced technology.
• Highly experienced ophthalmologists specializing in laser vision correction.
• Comprehensive pre-surgery assessments and personalized treatment plans.
• Affordable pricing and easy financing options.
• Dedicated post-operative care for optimal results.