New York City-based ophthalmologist Yuna Rapoport, M.D., and Washington D.C.-based board-certified eye surgeon Michael Brusco, M.D., explain the procedure below:
Pre-Surgical Process
First, your ophthalmologist will call you in for a thorough examination to ensure that you’re a candidate for PRK. “You need to [refrain from wearing] contact lenses for three to seven days (depending on prescription),” says Dr. Rapoport. Failure to do so can lead to inaccurate eye measurements, as some contact lenses have a reshaping effect on the cornea. “Imaging and a lot of measurements will be performed.”
The examination process includes:
- Testing your vision for refractive errors and abnormalities
- Assessing other eye health issues that could jeopardize a successful outcome
- Measuring your cornea and pupil size
Additionally, you and your ophthalmologist will likely sit down to discuss realistic expectations regarding the surgery and your vision needs as it relates to lifestyle. Ophthalmologists consider the latter when recommending treatment options.
During the Surgery
“You will receive an oral relaxing tablet—like Ativan or Xanax—so you will be completely relaxed,” says Dr. Rapoport. “[After] your eye is numbed with topical numbing drops, the epithelium is then removed and the laser changes the shape of the cornea.” During the laser portion of the surgery, you’re expected to stare at the target light to avoid eye movement.
Following extraction, the ophthalmologist typically covers the cornea with a bandage contact lens to minimize pain. “The entire process takes about 15 minutes total,” says Dr. Rapoport.
After the Surgery
“After the PRK procedure, you’ll be guided to a room where you will rest your eyes for a few minutes before the doctor looks over your eyes once again before you’re discharged,” says Dr. Brusco.
Once you’re discharged, the ophthalmologist will send you home with the “bandage” contact lens over your eye. This is meant to accelerate healing during your recovery period. You should also plan to have someone pick you up after the surgery.
Recovery is the perfect time to get plenty of rest and maybe take a few sick days from work. For the first week, you’ll also want to refrain from strenuous activity to avoid delaying the healing process. According to Dr. Rapoport, individuals may experience itchiness and discomfort for the first two days. “[You can remedy the side effects] with numbing drops, a bandage contact lens and oral pain medication,” she says.
In terms of follow-up appointments, Dr. Rapoport says “you’ll be seen about a week after, during which [your ophthalmologist will remove] the bandage contact lenses. [From there], you’ll be seen for regular eye visits.” Sun exposure can cause further vision problems after surgery due to possible corneal scarring. Thus, your ophthalmologist will likely suggest wearing outdoor sunglasses for a recommended length of time.
