Technique PRK (PHOTOREFRACTIVE KERATECTOMY)
The PRK technique is very effective in correcting small degrees of myopia, hyperopia and astigmatism.
In PRK, the surface membrane of the cornea (epithelium) is removed using a special tool, and then Excimer Laser treatment is applied, to modify the cornea curvature and correct the refractive error.
At the end of the surgery, a contact lens is applied to help the epithelium heal within the next three to four days. Full recovery and restoration of vision is slower with this technique compared to LASIK technique, because PRK alters the external surface of the cornea.
PRK is recommended as a method instead of LASIK for patients with thin corneas and for the correction of a rather small refractive error. The removal of the cornea’s epithelial layer is accomplished with a special tool and the help of either the laser or a liquid solution. This is called ‘NO TOUCH’ PRK.
Technique PRK XTRA (PHOTOREFRACTIVE KERATECTOMY EXTRA)
In cases of patients with high degrees of a refractive error and marginal cornea thickness for PRK, we apply the technique PRK XTRA. Through this procedure we can correct ametropia and at the same time stabilize the cornea and eliminate the improbable case of postoperative ectasia.
Thus, after applying the classic technique PRK, and before placing the contact lens, we instill riboflavin drops for 90 seconds and then irradiate the cornea with ultraviolet light for 90 more seconds.
