Exceptional PRK Eye Surgery in Minneapolis and Surrounding Areas
If you are not a candidate for LASIK surgery because of corneal distortions, PRK may be an excellent alternative. The PRK procedure reshapes the cornea, improving visual acuity and often reducing or eliminating a patient's need for eyeglasses or contact lenses. Northwest Eye provides PRK for individuals in Minneapolis, Maple Grove, Wayzata, Plymouth, Robbinsdale, and surrounding Twin Cities areas. We also treat many patients from around the globe drawn to our team's expertise with PRK, comprehensive treatment for related or additional eye problems, and patient-focused care. We welcome individuals weighing their surgical eye care options to contact Northwest Eye to receive expert, individualized guidance on their treatment options.
What is PRK?
PRK is a surgical treatment for nearsightedness, farsightedness, and astigmatism - problems that occur when the cornea, the part of the eye that refracts light onto the lens, is misshaped. PRK corrects these visual problems by removing the outer layer of the cornea (the epithelium), re-shaping the cornea with a laser, and replacing the outer layer.
PRK vs. LASIK
PRK and LASIK surgery have several similarities: both treat corneal distortions by re-shaping the cornea, both are relatively quick procedures, and both help patients achieve reduced dependence on corrective eyewear. Wavefront technology can also be used with the PRK procedure to create a map of the cornea prior to surgery.
PRK is different from LASIK in several important ways. The procedure involves removing the epithelium, not just creating a corneal flap. PRK may be appropriate for patients with corneal distortions for whom LASIK is not an option, since the epithelium is removed entirely. Unlike LASIK, patients must wear protective contact lenses for several days or weeks after PRK surgery. Finally, recovery is sometimes longer and more uncomfortable after PRK than after LASIK surgery.
Contact Northwest Eye for more information on PRK eye surgery. We welcome patients from Minneapolis, Maple Grove, Wayzata, Plymouth, Robbinsdale, and surrounding Twin Cities communities, as well as locations throughout the world.
The PRK Procedure
The PRK procedure usually takes about 15 to 20 minutes to complete. The surgeon begins the procedure by applying anesthetic eye drops, which completely numb the eye. Next, he uses a microkeratome blade or laser to carefully remove the epithelium. Then, he uses an excimer laser to re-shape the cornea. He then smoothes the epithelium back into place. Finally, he covers the eye with a protective contact lens, which the patient wears for several days or weeks. The eyes are generally sore for a few days after surgery, although most patients can resume normal activities within three days. Patients should not expect to notice results in less than one or two weeks.
Candidates for PRK
Candidacy for PRK is similar to candidacy for LASIK surgery. However, patients who have corneal distortions (which would eliminate them from LASIK candidacy) may be candidates for PRK.
Contact Northwest Eye
To learn more about PRK surgery, contact Northwest Eye, serving Minneapolis, Maple Grove, Wayzata, Robbinsdale, Plymouth, and surrounding areas. Our expertise, compassion, and state-of-the-art facilities attract patients from all over the globe seeking the best in comprehensive eye care.