PRK FAQ's

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	FAQs

PRK

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What is PRK?

PRK is an abbreviation for Photorefractive Keratectomy. PRK is a vision correction procedure which uses a laser to reshape the cornea. PRK takes just a few minutes and is done under topical anesthesia.

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Who is a candidate for PRK?

Patients whose corneas are too thin for LASIK

Athletes who may have a possibility for eye trauma

Patients who may have a physically active lifestyle.

Patients with certain corneal diseases

Patients with a certain degree of dry eyes

Patients concerned about a corneal flap

Patients with large pupils

Patients with thin corneas
Patients who had previous eye surgery, such as RK, LASEK or LASIK

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What is the difference between PRK, LASEK and LASIK?

LASIK, LASEK and PRK treat nearsightedness, farsightedness, and astigmatism, but if you have have larger pupils or thin corneas, PRK may be the best procedure for you.

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Will I need reading glasses after my surgery?

Generally, patients under the age of 40 still read well without the use of glasses following the surgery. Patients over the age of 40 may need reading glasses for small print. Presbyopia is a term that refers to the natural weakening of the muscles that occurs in our early to mid 40s, causing us to need reading glasses. LASIK does not correct or prevent presbyopia. Should you fall into this age category, we will be happy to discuss monovision with you at your consultation. This is an option that allows many patients the convenience of near and distance vision without the use of reading glasses.

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When can I return to sporting activities or my physically active lifestyle?

Once your vision allows, you can resume all activities. You should however, avoid intense or direct strong sunlight and dirty or dusty environments for as long as possible after treatment.

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How soon can I drive after PRK?

We will require that you have someone drive you home following your procedure. However, you may drive when you feel comfortable enough to drive safely, possibly the next day.

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Do I have to avoid all activities post-operatively?

No. We typically demonstrate to the patients that they can bend over immediately after surgery, pick up 20-30 pounds, and shower, provided they don't get water into their operative eye. We do ask that they wear an eye shield at bedtime for the first few weeks after surgery so they do not inadvertently rub the eye during sleep. Typical follow-up evaluations are scheduled at 1 day, 1 week, 3 weeks, and 6 weeks, with glasses being prescribed between the 3rd and 6th week visit.

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Why cant I wear my contact lens wear before my preoperative exam?

Contact lenses can change the shape of your cornea similar to how a watchband can make an imprint on your wrist. If you have your eyes examined too soon after removing your contact lenses, several of the eye tests could give inaccurate results and negatively influence your surgical outcome. Discontinue wearing soft contact lenses according to the doctor's recommendation prior to the preoperative measurements and surgery. Rigid gas permeable (RGP) contact lens wearers may require a more protracted amount of time out of lens wear. Our Doctor will advise you if your corneas have not returned to their natural shape after removing your contact lenses.

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Will I still need glasses or contact lenses?

You may need glasses or other corrective lenses after the procedure on a temporary or permanent basis.

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What if I had a previous corneal transplant or radial keratotomy?

Research has shown that PRK can be successfully performed after a corneal transplant or previous radial keratotomy (RK) refractive surgery. However, the decision depends on many factors. See us for a pre-operative consultation and exam to see if you are a good candidate.

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Appelman Eye Associates is located in St. Peters Missouri
Dr. Appelman, Dr. Carenza, and the caring staff provide personalized 'One-on-One' eye care. We have earned our reputation by providing the finest in eye health care, eyewear, and contact lenses at affordable prices.

We will make every effort to take a complete approach to your eye care. This means that we will take the time to not only understand your eye health and visual needs, but your general health, lifestyle, and dietary habits as well. This is somewhat rare in health care today, but we think you will find it to be a refreshing change.

Seeing 20/20 doesn't necessarily mean your eyes are healthy. Many eye problems can only be detected during a thorough eye exam. Our eye doctors uses the latest innovative diagnostic equipment to detect even the smallest changes in your vision and eye health. We will evaluate your risk factors for diseases of the eye. It's important to know that diseases of the eye can also be an indicator of general health issues.

Schedule your Eye health and Vision appointment today with our experienced eye care providers at our St. Peters Missouri office and give your vision the level of care and attention it deserves.