PRK stands for photorefractive keratectomy, a type of laser repair for nearsightedness and astigmatism. According to Refractive Surgery News, PRK is the second most common type of laser eye surgery after LASIK and is used in instances where LASIK might not be safe. PRK uses a laser to reshape the cornea after the central part of the top layer is removed. As with any surgery, complications can occur after PRK.
Postoperative Complications
Significant pain lasting up to one week occurs in 1 in 10 patients after PRK, because of the removal of part of the epithelial layer of the cornea, according to the Angeles Vision Clinic. Pain medications may be prescribed. Infection occurs in 1 in 100 people undergoing PRK, according to the Angeles Vision Clinic, and may need to be treated with antibiotic eye drops. The eye may be red, swollen or tear excessively for one to three days after surgery, according to the Cleveland Clinic.
Vision Problems
Approximately 1 in 100 patients has over- or under-correction in vision from the surgery, according to the Angeles Vision Clinic. This can result in a decrease in visual acuity and loss of vision over pre-surgery vision. According to the Cleveland Clinic, glare or halos around images can be a complication of the surgery for the first six months. Blurred vision and light sensitivity may occur for the first few days after surgery, according to Refractory Surgery News.
Corneal Scarring
Corneal scarring or a haze on the cornea occurs in 1 percent to 5 percent of patients after PRK, according to the Angeles Vision Clinic, and may make you feel like you're looking through a dirty windshield. Incidence is higher if the amount of correction needed is greater.
Dry Eyes
Dry eye syndrome can occur after any type of laser surgery. This occurs because of the disruption of the corneal surface. Patients blink less, and tear production is disturbed because signals from the damaged cornea aren't relayed to other parts of the eye, according to USA Eyes. Dry eye syndrome usually resolves within six months after surgery and causes feelings of irritation, fatigue and grittiness in the eye. Lubricating eye drops are prescribed to treat the problem.
