LASEK and PRK Post-Op Care

San Francisco, Oakland & San Jose, California

For patients undergoing advanced surface ablation such as LASEK and PRK, the healing period will be longer than LASIK, but comparably quicker and less uncomfortable than many other elective procedures. Remember that your eyes are being treated with LADARVision laser technology, which is far gentler on your tissue than instruments.

With LASEK, the epithelium (top corneal layer) is put back in place after treatment, and it will only take about a day for the flap edge to heal. You'll be able to see just minutes after LASEK, but it may take a few days for your final clear vision results to materialize. Dry eyes, itching, and other irritating side effects are normal after this procedure and should disappear as the epithelium heals. You will be asked to wear a contact lens "bandage" to help with the healing process for just a few days.

Patients may experience irritation in the eyes, and minor side effects like haloing or glare should subside within a few days. Eye drops will help with the healing process and minimize your discomfort. You should be able to return to everyday activities with no problem - your eye surgeon will give you guidelines and ask that you refrain from swimming and certain activities for a designated period of time.

With PRK, the epithelium is removed and allowed to regroup.

A bandage contact lens will encourage the epithelium regrowth, which should only take a few days. Patients can expect some discomfort and sensations of irritation or scratchiness in the eyes. Visual recovery can take one to two weeks (or longer, depending on the patient), so you'll be relying on your opposite eye to see during the healing process.

Most patients are able to return to normal activities quickly, such as reading, watching TV, and driving. Swimming and other activities that affect the eye are restricted. Patients are also asked to avoid rubbing their eyes during healing. Eye drops will help soothe the eyes and minimize discomfort.

Are you ready to see the world in a whole new light? Discover the difference vision correction can have on your lifestyle during a free vision consultation at our San Francisco laser eye center.

408.984.1010