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When treating myopia, or nearsightedness, the surgeon uses the laser to flatten the corneal surface in a circular pattern.  In comparison, when treating astigmatism, the laser is programmed to remove tissue in an elliptical pattern, selectively reshaping some portions of the cornea to form a smooth symmetrical surface.  This procedure requires precise evaluation of the astigmatism so that the correct amounts of laser energy are delivered to the appropriate areas of the cornea.

Are you a PRK Candidate?

PRK is not for everyone. There are a few medical conditions that some people have that make them poor candidates for this procedure. These conditions are rare and can be detected during your pre-procedure examination with what is called a Corneal Map. If a condition exists, it is not wise to proceed and you will be told.

Additionally, a condition brought on by the aging process called presbyopia, cannot be treated. Presbyopia, simply defined, is the loss of flexibility of your eye lens, causing many people to need reading glasses as they get older.

However, most people can have PRK. After (these conditions) have been ruled out, there are few impediments to a successful procedure.

Following is a short quiz that will give you an idea if you are a possible candidate for PRK. From here, professional advice from a qualified eye surgeon is required.

• My correction is:
  • a) + or - 6 or less
  • b) higher than 6
• I have
  • a) Slight astigmatism
  • b) Heavy astigmatism
• Typically, my body heals
  • a) Quickly
  • b) Slowly

Look at your answers. If you answered mostly a's you are probably a very good candidate. If you answered mostly b's then you may not be, but don't discount it until you have checked it out thoroughly. It may be that you can have PRK, but with lower expectations as to the possibility of being able to see 20/20 after the procedure. It may be that a realistic correction for you to expect is 20/40. This may be completely acceptable to you and your lifestyle.

If any of the following conditions apply to you, you are NOT a good candidate to have PRK:

• Pregnancy.
• Unstable refractive error (your vision correction has been changing over the past 12 months).
• Collagen/Vascular disease.
• Active ocular disease.
• Under 20 years of age.
• Pacemaker users.

Call Eyes Over Texas Eye Care Center at 281-398-0747 to schedule your consultation today or use our convenient online appointment/consultation request form.