Glasses, contact lenses, and other corrective eyewear can help correct your vision problems, but it isn’t a permanent solution. PRK eye surgery is one way to ensure long-term relief from refractive errors like nearsightedness, farsightedness, and even astigmatism. Thanks to the latest laser technology, ophthalmologists can make accurate measurements and precise reshaping of the cornea, ensuring a safe and effective treatment for PRK patients.
If you are looking to get PRK laser eye surgery in the Philippines, it is important to know the essential details prior to an appointment. This guide outlines what PRK eye surgery is, its cost, who can get it, and the step-by-step overview of the operation.
Photorefractive keratectomy, or better known as PRK, is a type of eye surgery that is used to correct refractive errors. It treats vision problems caused by the cornea’s inability to bend light properly. This includes myopia, hyperopia, and astigmatism.
PRK uses an excimer laser to reshape the cornea (the outer layer of the eye) to help it refract light the right way. Eye doctors ensure a painless PRK laser eye surgery using numbing eye drops. They also use advanced technology to diagnose patients, take eye measurements, and program lasers for safe and precise application.
Both PRK and LASIK eye surgery both use lasers to treat refractive errors but differ in method and recovery period.
During PRK laser eye surgery, the topmost layer of the cornea is removed, and a bandage contact lens is placed over the exposed area to help it heal. The recovery period takes about 30 days.
Meanwhile, LASIK eye surgery makes a small, circular flap in the cornea, which is folded back into place to begin the healing process. Patients can make full recovery in just a few days to weeks.
Although LASIK is less invasive and allows faster recovery, PRK surgery is the safer option for people with thin corneas or a higher risk of eye trauma. They also share the same benefits: clearer eyesight, long-term vision improvement, and better lifestyle.
PRK eye surgery cost ranges anywhere from Php 50,000 to Php 75,000 for both eyes. Pricing is affected by several factors, such as:
A PRK consultation is necessary to know if this type of treatment is right for you. Not everybody is suitable for PRK; however, people with certain vision problems have a good chance to be eligible for treatment.
Individuals with high degrees of refractive errors may be recommended for PRK. Mild or extremely severe cases, however, will likely be ineligible. The threshold for each condition ranges between the following:
Besides this, you will need to have stable vision. PRK is recommended for people over 18 years old, whose eyes have completely developed. Additionally, your eye grade must not have changed over the past year.
PRK eye surgery is also great for people who maintain an active lifestyle. Eyewear can be a hassle for people who regularly exercise, do sports, or work a physically demanding job. These types of activities make lenses and glasses prone to misplacing or breakage. PRK can correct your vision for long-term relief.
An eye exam is a prerequisite for any eye operation. Your ophthalmologist will test your eye health, vision, and measure your eye surface to determine whether you are a good candidate for PRK.
On the day of the surgery, your eye surgeon will place numbing drops on your eye. This will prevent you from feeling any pain. However, expect to feel a slight discomfort or pressure while the surgery is performed. In some cases where the patient is experiencing the jitters or anxiety, the doctor can prescribe calming medication (usually benzodiazepine or diazepam) to be taken prior to the surgery.
A laser, liquid, or incision tools are used to gently remove the epithelium, or the cornea’s surface. There is no need to worry because this surface regenerates after a few days of recovery. Expect to feel a slight pressure during this and the following step.
Once the epithelium is removed, an excimer laser is used to reshape the cornea. You will be instructed to look towards a target light to prevent your eyes from moving. The laser will begin removing small amounts of corneal tissue. The laser refines the surface according to the measurement of your cornea, and will create the ideal shape to correct your vision.
The entire procedure will only take around five to fifteen minutes. When the surgery is finished, a ‘bandage’ contact lens will be placed over your eye. This will protect and help your eye heal. It is recommended to have somebody else drive you home after the surgery.
The bandage contacts will be removed by your surgeon within 3-7 days post-surgery. After mild irritation or pain, it is normal for your vision to be blurry at first, but as you blink, your vision will begin to improve and feel more comfortable.
Recovery from PRK laser eye surgery is slower than LASIK. The outer surface or epithelium grows back in 3-5 days. You will be prescribed medicated eye drops for at least a month. This keeps your eyes moist and prevents infection. Dosage and usage period will depend on your ophthalmologist.
During the first 2-3 days after PRK surgery, you might experience the following side effects:
These symptoms are manageable with over-the-counter medication; however, if you notice high degree or persistent pain, consult your eye doctor immediately.
With the help of the right eye doctor, you can experience undivided care every step of your PRK journey. Getting PRK eye surgery is not just a big step towards clearer vision, but also a brighter future. Freedom from glasses or contact lenses can enhance your lifestyle and confidence.
ALSO READ: Everything You Need to Know About Lasik Eye Surgery Philippines
AsPac Eye Laser & Surgicenter is an all-inclusive eye clinic based in Laguna, Philippines. Get exclusive expert care for your PRK laser eye surgery through our professional team of doctors. Our clinic uses a number of sophisticated eye equipment for refractive surgeries, which let you experience state of the art eye care. We also offer LASIK and ICL eye surgery, eye tests, and various comprehensive treatment plans for your vision. Let’s connect! Book an appointment with us here.
Founded in 2009 as a response to the need for a diagnostic and therapeutic eye center of a growing number of patients from the Southern Tagalog Region.
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