PRK eye surgery2024-09-12T15:26:27+00:00

Ditch visual aids with PRK eye surgery

Unlock clear vision with PRK in Cape Town, a safe and effective procedure that eliminates the need for glasses or contact lenses.

Ditch visual aids with PRK eye surgery

Unlock clear vision with PRK in Cape Town, a safe and effective procedure that gently reshapes your cornea, eliminating the need for glasses or contact lenses.

As seen in

As seen in

PRK FAQ: Your Guide to Clear Vision Without Glasses

Explore the benefits of PRK eye surgery and get answers to all your questions about this treatment.

PRK eye surgery suitability criteria

PRK suitability criteria include individuals seeking vision correction without glasses or contacts.

Typically, candidates are over 18 years old with stable prescriptions and healthy corneas.

This procedure is often preferred for those with thin corneas or those who may not qualify for LASIK due to certain corneal characteristics.

It’s essential to undergo a thorough eye examination to determine if PRK is the right option for your vision correction needs.

PRK eye surgery corrects vision by reshaping the cornea. Firstly, the surgeon removes the thin outer layer of the cornea, called the epithelium. Next, using an excimer laser, precise reshaping of the cornea occurs. This allows light to focus properly on the retina, improving vision.

Unlike LASIK, PRK does not involve creating a corneal flap.

Advantages of PRK:

  • Suitable for Individuals with Thin Corneas: PRK is an excellent option for people with thin corneas who may not be candidates for LASIK. Since PRK does not involve creating a corneal flap, it can safely correct vision in these cases.
  • Lower Risk of Corneal Flap Complications: Unlike LASIK, PRK does not require the creation of a corneal flap. This eliminates the risk of flap-related complications, such as dislocation or wrinkling.
  • Ideal for Active Lifestyles: PRK is often recommended for individuals with active or high-risk lifestyles, including athletes and military personnel, because there is no risk of flap dislocation with impact or strenuous activities.
  • Effective for High Levels of Refractive Error: PRK can successfully correct significant refractive errors, including high degrees of nearsightedness, farsightedness, and astigmatism, providing substantial improvement in vision.

Disadvantages of PRK:

  • Longer Recovery Time Compared to LASIK: PRK has a slower recovery process than LASIK. It can take several days to weeks for the surface of the cornea to heal and for vision to stabilise.
  • Increased Discomfort During Recovery: Patients often experience more discomfort during the initial recovery period after PRK. Symptoms can include pain, light sensitivity, and a gritty sensation in the eyes, typically lasting a few days.
  • Higher Risk of Haze Formation: There is a potential for corneal haze to develop during the healing process. This haze can cause vision to appear cloudy and may require additional treatment if it persists.
  • Potential for Temporary or Permanent Vision Fluctuations: During the healing process, some patients may experience temporary vision fluctuations. In rare cases, these fluctuations can be long-lasting, impacting overall visual clarity.
  • Not Suitable for Certain Corneal Conditions or Occupations Requiring Quick Visual Recovery: PRK is not recommended for individuals with specific corneal conditions or those in occupations that demand rapid visual recovery. The extended healing time may be a significant drawback for these patients.

PRK, like any surgical procedure, carries risks.

Potential risks include infection, corneal haze, and over or under correction of vision.

In some cases, patients may experience prolonged healing or dry eye symptoms.

While rare, serious complications such as corneal ulceration or scarring can occur. It’s essential for patients to discuss these risks with their surgeon and follow post-operative care instructions diligently to minimise the likelihood of complications and achieve the best possible outcomes.

PRK is not the only option for laser eye surgery.

Alternatives include LASIK, which involves creating a flap in the cornea, and SMILE, a minimally invasive procedure.

Patients with thin corneas or certain eye conditions may find PRK more suitable than LASIK.

Additionally, implantable contact lenses or refractive lens exchange may be considered for those ineligible for laser surgery.

Consulting with an ophthalmologist can help determine the most appropriate treatment based on individual circumstances.

PRK eye surgery, involves several steps:

  • Step 1: Anaesthetic eye drops are applied to numb the eye.
  • Step 2: The outer layer of the cornea, called the epithelium, is gently removed.
  • Step 3: A cool laser is used to reshape the cornea by removing tiny amounts of tissue. The laser precisely reshapes the cornea to correct refractive errors like nearsightedness, farsightedness, and astigmatism.
  • Step 4: a soft contact lens is placed on the eye to protect it while the epithelium regenerates.
  • Step 5: Over time, the epithelium heals, and vision gradually improves, reaching optimal clarity within a few weeks.

PRK typically yields excellent results, providing clear vision and reducing or eliminating the need for glasses or contact lenses.

Most patients experience improved vision within a few days, although full visual recovery may take several weeks.

Many achieve 20/20 vision or better, enhancing their quality of life and daily activities. While some may still require glasses for certain tasks, they often have significantly reduced dependence on corrective eyewear.

PRK’s long-term effectiveness is well-documented, with many patients enjoying lasting vision improvements.

Overall, PRK can offer lasting clarity and freedom from visual limitations, enhancing overall satisfaction and lifestyle.

Not sure if you qualify for SMILE?

Book a free video call to uncover the potential for crystal-clear vision. Most people assume they are either definitely a candidate or definitely not. The screening usually surprises people either way.

Not sure if you qualify for SMILE?

Book a free video appointment to uncover the potential for crystal-clear vision. Most people assume they are either definitely a candidate or definitely not. The screening usually surprises people either way.

3 simple steps to unlock your vision’s full potential

Navigating the world of laser eye surgery can feel like a maze. We’ve streamlined the process, making your path to clear vision simple

Tell us about your eyes

Wondering if laser eye surgery is your ticket to a life without glasses or contacts? The journey begins here. Connect with our welcoming team via +27 79 686 6565 for Foreshore & Blaauwberg or +27 21 802 2853 for Somerset West or effortlessly book your free video call online. It’s your first step towards clarity.

Come in for a screening

Your ophthalmologist maps your cornea, measures your prescription, and assesses whether SMILE, or any procedure,  is appropriate for your eyes. This is where suitability is confirmed. Cost of the screening will be given when you book.

Decide with full information

If you are a candidate and choose to go ahead, your ophthalmologist will walk through the procedure, the risks, what to expect, and the full cost in writing. Surgery is only scheduled once you are satisfied and have given informed consent.

What patients at Atlantic Eye Laser Centre have said

These are patient accounts. Experiences and outcomes differ between individuals.

We answer your questions about vision correction treatment in Cape Town

Get a quick overview of everything you need to know about restoring your vision

See your future clearly, without the frames

Laser eye surgery isn’t a one-size-fits-all deal. Your eyes and your lifestyle play a big part. Ready to see which type suits you? Take this 2-min self-test and find out.

See your future clearly, explore all your options

Laser eye surgery isn’t a one-size-fits-all deal. Your eyes and your lifestyle play a big part. Ready to see which type suits you? Take this 2-min quiz and find out.

Hi, I’m Daemon McClunan

I’m proud to be the founder of both the Atlantic Eye Centre, a leading eye specialist centre; and LIQID Medical Pty, an award-winning biotech company. My passion for research and innovation has led me to create four patented devices, and earn various prestigious awards during my specialist training.

With a medical degree from Stellenbosch University, a specialist degree from the University of Cape Town, and experience working in renowned Laser Eye Surgery centres in Canada, Germany, India and London, I’m dedicated to providing top-tier care.

Beyond the clinic, I’ve embarked on humanitarian missions, travelling over 15,000km by motorbike to provide rural eye screenings. In my downtime, I love mountain biking, diving, and spending quality time with my family.

My goal is to provide a world-class service which ensures every patient leaves my practice feeling happier than when they first walked in.

Dr Daemon McClunan

MBChB(SU), DipOphth(SA), MMed(UCT), FcOphth(SA)

How to find us in Cape Town
How to reach us

Dr James Beatty

Dr Daemon McClunan

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