PRK Eye Surgery Advice

Updated on March 19, 2011
S.O. asks from Sturgis, SD
5 answers

So I've decided to have Custom PRK laser vision correction done in April. Any suggestions from those with experience on how to make the healing process quicker and less painful? Thanks!
My vision isn't too terrible now (-1.75 and -2.00) but my cornea's are too thin for LASIK.

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So What Happened?

I had my left eye done in April and my right eye done in May (I have a history of forming keloid scars so the Dr's wanted to be sure that my cornea didn't scar from the procedure). At 2 months out (left eye) and 1 month out (right eye) I am already seeing 20/20 and my Dr. still thinks that I'll get down to the 20/15 line!

More Answers

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R.F.

answers from Dallas on

I had the same procedure as well. Just follow the doctor's post-op to the T! I skipped an appointment and was still using the drops, which could have been really bad - totally my fault. He scolded me - deservedly.
PRK usually means you have bad vision - mine was horrible (-7.5 with contacts). I now have 20/20 vision and could not be happier. I never had to use the numbing drops because I wasn't in a lot of pain, but I did rest my eyes A LOT like the other post said. Plus, the goggles you have to wear are soooo sexy :). Good luck and congrats!

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S.G.

answers from Norfolk on

I had this surgery last year. First I would suggest watching some of the surgeries on youtube to see what will happen during the procedure. It's kind of gross but it's good to know what's going on. I took vitamin C tablets, 500mg twice a day starting a few weeks before surgery. This was supposed to aid the healing process. I followed the doctor's advice 100% to the letter. Make sure after the procedure you rest your eyes a LOT. Even a week or a month after, just shut your eyes for a few minutes every hour. And use your wetting drops liberally. Please feel free to PM me if you have any particular questions about the surgery or what went on after. Good luck!

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R.D.

answers from Des Moines on

I only had mild discomfort for a few days after, but do make sure that you clear your schedule so that you aren't trying to do things when you're supposed to have your eyes closed. I had a gap in childcare about the 3rd day in and had to watch my son for a couple of hours. That was the only time they really started to hurt.

My husband also had the same procedure and reported almost no discomfort and I think had an even faster recovery than I did.

My main advice would be to follow the dr's orders and stay on top of all the drops and things that you're supposed to use and it will be over pretty quickly.

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A.P.

answers from Los Angeles on

My girlfriend just has this done since she was not a candidate for Lasik, she said she wishes someone would have told her about the recovery process, she was in pain for weeks and got real swollen, couldnt go to work or drive. If you have more questions I can put you in touch with her via email.

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S.W.

answers from Minneapolis on

Like Rebecca, I was surprised at the lightness of your prescription. That is my eyesight 7 years after Lasik and I only wear glasses to drive. I was legally blind before surgery. I'm not sure that amount of correction would be worth the pain and after care needed from this surgery.

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