What should you not do before PRK?

Pre PRK Guidelines

Please do not wear any cologne or perfume the day of the procedure. Please shampoo your hair before the procedure, as you will not be washing your own hair post-operatively, until directed to do so by Dr. Belgorod, when you have sufficiently healed.

How do I prepare for PRK?

Three days before surgery: Use Zymar antibiotic drops, 1 drop in the eye(s) to be treated 4 times a day for 3 days prior to surgery. The easiest schedule for most people to remember is to do one drop at breakfast, one at lunch, one at dinner, and one at bedtime.

What should I do the night before PRK?

What disqualifies from PRK?

Patients with diseases like keratoconus or glaucoma will not be candidates for PRK. If you have scarring from eye injuries or botched eye surgeries you also are likely to not be a candidate. Eye issues are likely to make you unable to undergo any vision procedures.

Should you eat before PRK?

In fact, patients are encouraged to eat before arriving for their procedure. Even in the moments before your procedure, while you are waiting in the clinic, you may be offered a chocolate biscuit or two. This helps ensure your blood sugar is at a stable level, and that you're comfortable and relaxed during the surgery.

LASIK or PRK? Which is right for me? Animation.

How painful is PRK?

According to Adler, the surgery itself is painless because of the numbing eye drops, but once the effect of the drops wears off, you may start to feel some discomfort. This sometimes feels like a scratch on the eye and lasts for about four days after the surgery.

Can you shower after PRK surgery?

You can shower or wash your hair the day after surgery. Keep water, soap, shampoo, hair spray, and shaving lotion out of your eye, especially for the first week. Do not rub or put pressure on your eye for at least 1 week.

What makes a good PRK candidate?

Ideal candidates for PRK are people who experience refractive errors (myopia, hyperopia, astigmatism) and would like to achieve great vision without the reliance on corrective lenses. They should be in good health overall and understand the risks and benefits of PRK.

How long after PRK can I drive?

Most patients are able to see well enough to drive 6 – 7 days after their procedure, with the doctor's approval. ❖ It is not unusual to feel some discomfort following PRK. If you experience discomfort, please use the Celluvisc drops provided in your “post-operative care kit”. You may use these drops as often as needed.

How much cornea is removed in PRK?

The flap in LASIK is typically about 20% of the corneal thickness, leaving 80% of the corneal tissue to work with. In PRK, the surface layer of cells that is removed is less than 10% of the corneal thickness, leaving more available tissue to work with. Thus, PRK can be the only option for patients with thin corneas.

What should I eat after PRK?

Some great options include chicken, fish, eggs, beans, and nuts. Most fish also have high levels of omega-3 fatty acid, which is thought to improve dry eyes. Vitamins: Consuming the right vitamins can help with recovery.

Can I use my phone after PRK?

It may last up to 4 days with PRK. When after surgery can I use my computer, tablet, and cell phone? It will not harm your eyes or their recovery from surgery if you try to use your eyes immediately. However, most patients feel more comfortable closing their eyes for the first few hours after surgery.

Can I have a glass of wine 3 days before surgery?

For your own safety and well-being, it's best to avoid alcohol for at least 48 hours before your scheduled surgery. Alcohol consumption can lead to serious complications both during and after the procedure. It can lead to a longer hospital stay and longer overall recovery time.

How long is vision blurry after PRK?

It is normal for you to experience significant fluctuations in your visions for the first couple of weeks following your procedure. Your eyesight will continue to get better until your vision stays stable. This can take anywhere from two weeks to six months.

How long do eyes stay dry after PRK?

Chronic dry eye developed in a small percentage of eyes up to 12 months after PRK and LASIK, according to a study. In addition, ocular surface staining scores and corneal sensitivity changed after both laser refractive procedures.

Is PRK worth the risk?

However, when PRK is performed by an experienced surgeon, the risk of complications is quite low. In fact, this surgery is among the safest procedures today when performed properly. One advantage of PRK over LASIK is that there is no risk of flap complications because no corneal flap is created.

Is it OK to watch TV after PRK?

In the first 24 hours after PRK, it's important that patients avoid any activities that may result in eyestrain. This includes reading, using the computer, watching TV or movies, and so forth. By resting your eyes for the first day, you will improve your overall healing experience.

Can I cook after PRK surgery?

After surgery, your eyes will need time to heal. They might be more sensitive than normal, so it's important to avoid any activities that may cause them any stress. While cooking might be something you enjoy, it's best to refrain from cooking after your surgery.

How long does PRK pain last?

After PRK surgery, you could experience some mild pain for two to three days. Your doctor should prescribe eye drops for pain and also dryness, according to the American Academy of Ophthalmology.

What prescription is too high for PRK?

Degree of Refractive Error

The best candidates for PRK have an eyeglass prescription that isn't extreme. This means, if you are nearsighted, you may have myopia of up to –8.00 diopters. If you are farsighted, your hyperopia may be up to +3.00 diopters. Your level of astigmatism may be as high as +4.00 diopters.

How old should you be to get PRK?

LASIK/PRK and Age

In actuality, the only age requirement for the laser vision correction procedure is that patients be at least 18 years of age. This is because an individual's vision may continue to change and not fully stabilize until after age 18. Adults of all ages undergo LASIK/PRK each year.

Is PRK good for astigmatism?

Before Lasik, PRK was the most common refractive surgery procedure. PRK also reshapes the cornea through the use of the excimer laser and fixes - nearsightedness, farsightedness, and astigmatism. PRK is very safe and stable procedure; the surgery is FDA approved, and is a great option for qualified patients.

Can I squeeze my eyes after PRK?

You should avoid strenuous physical activity, as it could promote dislodging of the contact lenses and cause microbes and perspiration to get into your eyes. Eye rubbing, squeezing and getting soap and/or water in the eyes are to be meticulously avoided.

What can you not do after PRK surgery?

You may shower starting the day after your procedure but keep those eyes shut to make sure soap and water get nowhere near your eyes. Avoid dust, dirt, and smoke. Avoid eye makeup and skin creams around the eyes for a week after surgery. Avoid bright lights.

How soon can I return to work after PRK?

Most patients can return to work four or five days after their PRK procedure.