If you’re considering laser eye surgery to correct your vision, you may have come across the term PRK (Photorefractive Keratectomy). PRK is an advanced and effective laser eye treatment offered by SNU Eye Clinic for patients with refractive errors like astigmatism, nearsightedness, and farsightedness. Unlike LASIK, PRK involves reshaping the cornea without creating a flap, making it a suitable option for patients with thinner corneas or those who are not candidates for LASIK surgery.
SNU Eye Clinic, located in Gangnam, Seoul, is known for providing world-class eye care to both local and international patients. With a team of expert ophthalmologists, many of whom have backgrounds from renowned institutions like Seoul National University and Harvard Medical School, the clinic is at the forefront of laser eye treatment. PRK surgery at SNU Eye Clinic is performed using the latest technology and is customized to meet the specific needs of each patient.
What is PRK Surgery?
PRK is a type of laser eye surgery designed to correct refractive errors by reshaping the cornea, the transparent layer at the front of the eye. During the procedure, the surgeon uses a laser to remove a small amount of corneal tissue, improving the way light enters the eye and is focused on the retina. This helps correct conditions like nearsightedness, farsightedness, and astigmatism.
PRK is similar to LASIK in that both procedures use laser technology to reshape the cornea. However, in PRK, the outermost layer of the cornea (the epithelium) is removed to allow the laser to reshape the underlying tissue. Unlike LASIK, which creates a flap in the cornea, PRK is a surface-based procedure, making it a suitable option for patients with corneas that are too thin for LASIK.
How PRK Surgery Works
During PRK surgery, the patient’s eye is numbed with eye drops, and the surgeon removes the outer layer of the cornea. The laser is then used to reshape the corneal tissue beneath. After the laser treatment is complete, a soft bandage contact lens is placed over the eye to help protect it while it heals.
PRK surgery is typically performed snuseoul on an outpatient basis, and the procedure takes around 15 minutes per eye. Most patients experience mild discomfort during the recovery period, but this can be managed with prescribed medication.
PRK Surgery for Astigmatism
Astigmatism is a common refractive error caused by an irregularly shaped cornea. This irregularity leads to blurred or distorted vision, which can be corrected with PRK surgery. At SNU Eye Clinic, the PRK procedure is carefully tailored to address astigmatism, ensuring that the cornea is reshaped in a way that improves the quality of vision.
Patients with astigmatism who undergo PRK surgery at SNU Eye Clinic often experience significant improvements in their vision. The clinic’s advanced laser technology allows for precise corrections, helping patients achieve clearer, sharper vision without the need for glasses or contact lenses.
Recovery After PRK Surgery
Recovery after PRK surgery is slightly longer compared to LASIK due to the healing process of the corneal surface. Most patients experience some discomfort, such as light sensitivity and a gritty sensation in the eye, during the first few days after the surgery. Vision may also be blurry for the first few days, and it can take several weeks for the cornea to fully heal.
At SNU Eye Clinic, patients are provided with comprehensive aftercare instructions to ensure proper healing. A follow-up visit is scheduled to monitor progress and ensure the cornea is healing correctly. Patients are typically advised to avoid strenuous activities for the first few weeks and to use prescribed eye drops to aid in healing.
The Benefits of PRK Surgery at SNU Eye Clinic
PRK surgery at SNU Eye Clinic offers numerous benefits, including:
- No Flap Creation: Since no flap is created, PRK is a better option for patients with thinner corneas or those who have certain eye conditions.
- High Success Rate: PRK surgery has a high success rate for treating refractive errors, including astigmatism.
- Quick Procedure: The procedure is relatively quick, typically taking around 15 minutes per eye.
- Long-Term Results: Most patients achieve lasting results after PRK surgery, reducing or eliminating the need for glasses or contact lenses.
Why Choose SNU Eye Clinic for PRK Surgery
SNU Eye Clinic is known for its world-class care and advanced eye treatments, including PRK surgery. The clinic’s team of highly skilled ophthalmologists is dedicated to providing personalized care to each patient. With the latest technology and a commitment to safety, excellence, and patient satisfaction, SNU Eye Clinic is one of the top choices for laser eye treatment in Seoul.
Patients who choose PRK surgery at SNU Eye Clinic can expect exceptional results and a smooth, comfortable recovery process. Whether you’re seeking to correct astigmatism or other refractive errors, the clinic offers tailored solutions to meet your needs.
Visit SNU Eye Clinic to learn more about PRK surgery and book your consultation today.