Used to treat
Myopia, Hypermetropia, and Astigmatism
Equipment Used
Schwind Amaris 750S Excimer laser
Method
This method differs from LASIK in that a corneal flap is not created. There is no cutting of the cornea to create a flap.The laser sculpts the surface of the cornea. We offer two forms of surface laser treatment:
PRK
The surface layer of cells (epithelium) is gently removed and the underlying cornea is sculpted using the Schwind Amaris 750S Excimer laser in accordance with the patient’s individual refractive error. A bandage contact lens is placed on the cornea at the end of the procedure and is kept in place for about 5 days. Local anesthesia in the form of eye drops is used during the procedure, as well as a mild oral sedative if the patient so wishes.
Trans-Epithelial 'No Touch' Laser
This procedure is unique to the Schwind Amaris 750S Excimer laser. The laser in 'one-step' removes the epithelium (surface layer) and does the laser correction concurrently. The advantages of this technique are the precise removal of epithelium allowing for faster healing and the manual aspects of the PRK procedure are minimised, making it a 'no-touch' procedure.
Recovery
Recovery time is slightly longer than for LASIK. The eyes may be uncomfortable for a few days and visual recovery may take a couple of weeks in some instances. This procedure is preferred in some cases, such as if the patient has a thin cornea, a high refractive error, or to avoid flap complications. These issues will be discussed in consultation with your surgeon.