While LASIK is a very common refractive surgery used to correct vision problems, there are a few others that can achieve the same goal with slightly different methods. PRK or photorefractive keratectomy is an alternative laser eye surgery that can also treat astigmatism, farsightedness, and nearsightedness. The success rate for PRK procedures at the LASIK clinics in Los Angeles is high and many candidates who are not eligible for LASIK are able to achieve their vision goals through PRK. While LASIK and PRK overlap in some respects, they are not the same. So, in order to plan for your PRK recovery, you may want to read up on the procedure.
According to Los Angeles LASIK experts, the difference between LASIK and PRK lies in the corneal flap. While each procedure relies on reshaping the cornea to correct vision, PRK does so specifically without creating a flap. Certain eye complications may qualify a candidate for the more simplistic PRK surgery over LASIK because of this difference.
After receiving a PRK corrective surgery from a LASIK eye center in Los Angeles, most people will need some time to recover. The first few days will require a lot of rest in order to jumpstart the healing process. During this time, some patients may experience minor symptoms such as itchy or dry eyes. However, this should only last a short time. When you go to your post-surgery appointment, you can discuss any lingering symptoms and ensure that your eyes are healing as they should.
Most LASIK doctors will prescribe eye drops in order to offset any dry eye symptoms and ensure that your eyes are properly lubricated. You may also be advised to use an eye mask at night in order to protect your eyes from any potential irritants. Your doctor will warn you not to itch, rub, or touch your eyes during this healing period. Otherwise, you may have a longer and less smooth recovery process.
The first post-surgery appointment should be relatively soon after your PRK procedure. The next few will be staggered out a little more in order to track certain stages of your recovery. It is important to attend every scheduled appointment in order for your doctor to observe and protect your vision progress. Depending on your specific situation, your doctor may start to relax certain guidelines as far as activities you can do with your newly focused eyes. Some people are able to return to their outdoor hobbies right away while others need a little more time before jumping into anything that could risk slowing down the recovery process.
While you are recovering, you should take note of any noticeable symptoms in order to communicate them to your doctor. Some people may experience light sensitivity, halos, or trouble seeing at night. Fortunately, these symptoms are temporary and will clear up as your eyes adjust back to normal. Six months is the usual milestone for LASIK and PRK in terms of enjoying the full results of the surgery.
PRK can be just as effective as LASIK, which is why so many people consider it a worthwhile investment. Choose the right surgeon, the right clinic, and begin your journey to vision clarity and freedom.