LASEK/PRK
Warsaw · Krakow · Vienna · Zurich
Photorefractive keratectomy (PRK) is a surgical procedure performed since 1987, recognized as one of the older methods of refractive laser surgery.
The procedure itself involves removing the upper cellular layer of the cornea (epithelium) and then appropriately reshaping the underlying corneal tissue using an excimer laser.
The procedures are effective and safe, and most importantly, they guarantee patients significant vision improvement.
Procedure Course
Initially, the face is cleansed with an antiseptic solution. The patient receives a local anesthetic in the form of eye drops. The eyelids are painlessly immobilized with a speculum. Throughout the entire operation, the patient looks at a flashing light above. In the first stage, the upper cellular layer of the cornea (epithelium) is manually removed.
Next, the surgeon uses a highly precise laser beam to remove a thin layer from the corneal surface. The laser models and shapes the existing corneal tissue to correct vision defects and corneal curvature. The patient does not experience pain – the only sensation may be the sound of the laser. The entire procedure is constantly monitored by the surgeon, who supervises the laser’s use through a microscope.
During the final stage of the LASEK/PRK procedure, soft, bandage contact lenses are inserted to protect the eyes after surgery. The protective lenses are removed by the surgeon after 2-4 days.
Preparation
Before starting the procedure, the patient’s facial area is thoroughly disinfected. The patient then receives anesthetic eye drops, and their eyelids are immobilized with speculums for the duration of the procedure. All of this is painless. During the procedure, the patient is asked to look at a flashing light above.
Epithelium Exposure
In the first phase of the procedure, the surgeon manually removes the upper cellular layer of the cornea, i.e., the epithelium. In newer generation procedures (e.g., LASIK or Femto-LASIK), the epithelium is only folded back, not completely removed.
Excimer Laser Correction
The next stage of the LASEK-PRK method involves using a highly precise laser beam to model and appropriately shape the cornea to eliminate vision defects.
Eye Protection After the Procedure
The final phase of laser vision correction is to protect the eyes with soft contact lenses that have high oxygen permeability. These are removed by the surgeon after 2-4 days.
Schedule a non-binding appointment and consultation to learn how we can improve your vision.
Important Information
The difference between individual treatment methods lies in the way the epithelium is removed:
PRK – the epithelium is completely removed after being softened with an alcohol solution.
LASEK – the epithelium is gently pushed aside before the laser procedure. After laser vision correction, an attempt is made to reposition the epithelium – this is not always possible.
Epi-LASIK – epithelial cells are detached from the underlying corneal tissue using a mechanical microkeratome, allowing them to be repositioned after the procedure.
No-Touch-PRK – the epithelium is removed by an excimer laser beam before the actual correction, which minimizes the risk of infection. This is the most precise method of surface laser vision correction.
EBK – the epithelium is precisely removed with an Epi-Clear knife.
Recovery After EBK Procedure
After the operation, the patient notices improved vision, but the eyes should remain protected for the rest of the day. Cell regeneration after surgery occurs within the first 2-3 days and may cause severe pain because the upper layer of the cornea is removed. Pain can be relieved with painkillers. It should be noted that the quality of vision may still change in the first weeks and months after the procedure.
Is laser vision correction painful?
What influences the choice of the appropriate procedure for our patients?
We are a Schwind
Reference Center
SwissLaser is the laser reference center for Schwind. We are experts in laser vision correction with international experience. We use modern, certified technologies that allow you to successfully free yourself from glasses!
Our SwissLaser clinic collaborates intensively with Schwind on scientific research. Dr.
Victor Derhartunian trains physicians worldwide in laser vision correction
using highly advanced SCHWIND eye-tech-solutions devices.
European standard of treatment
The establishment of SwissLaser marks Dr. Victor Derhartunian’s return to his Polish roots – bringing European knowledge, experience, quality, and renowned Swiss precision to our country, so that every patient in need of vision correction receives the best in terms of technology, expertise, and care.
Our priority is the continuous deepening of knowledge in the field of refractive surgery, lens and laser operations, so that Polish patients can receive treatment at the highest level.
Dr. Victor Derhartunian received the Patients’ Choice Award from 2012-2023.
Schedule a non-binding appointment and consultation to learn how we can improve your vision.
How much do LASEK/PRK procedures cost?
We perform surface procedures primarily in the modern, touch-free variant Trans-PRK smart surFace: PLN 10,000 for both eyes (PLN 5,500 per eye). The final method and price are determined by the qualification examination (PLN 400).
- 2 check-ups during the first month included in the package
- instalment payment available (Santander Consumer Bank)
- qualification examination: PLN 400
The LASEK/PRK procedure – step by step
- Qualification examination (approx. 90 minutes): corneal diagnostics (thickness, topography) and selection of the method.
- Day of the procedure: anaesthetic eye drops; removal of the epithelium and correction with the excimer laser – without creating a flap.
- Protection: a soft bandage contact lens protects the healing epithelium.
- After the procedure: you return home with an accompanying person; the doctor removes the lens at a check-up after a few days.
Recovery day by day
- Days 1–3: regeneration of the epithelium – discomfort and pain are possible, effectively relieved with drops and painkillers.
- Days 3–7: removal of the bandage lens; return to everyday activities.
- First month: vision improves markedly; 2 check-ups included in the package.
- 3–4 months: full stabilisation of the result – this is normal for surface methods.
Safety and possible side effects – honestly
Surface methods do not create a corneal flap – they therefore eliminate the associated risks and are safe for physically active people as well. To be honest, however: the first 2–3 days after the procedure can be painful (healing of the epithelium), and some patients temporarily experience hazy vision (haze) or dry eye. Full visual acuity stabilises within 3–4 months. We discuss your individual risk at the qualification examination.
Expert commentary
“PRK has been performed since 1987 – it is the longest-proven laser method in the world. Today we use it for selected indications, most often in its modernised, touch-free form, Trans-PRK.”
Dr Victor Derhartunian, FEBO, FWCRS – refractive surgeon, over 25 000 laser procedures
Frequently asked questions (FAQ)
What does the PRK procedure involve?
Photorefractive keratectomy (PRK) is a surgical procedure performed since 1987 and regarded as one of the older methods of laser refractive surgery. It involves removing the upper cell layer of the cornea (the epithelium) and then reshaping the underlying corneal tissue with an excimer laser. The procedures are effective and safe, and patients achieve a significant improvement in vision.
How does PRK differ from LASEK?
The difference lies in how the corneal epithelium is handled. In PRK the epithelium is removed completely after being softened with an alcohol solution, whereas in LASEK the epithelium is folded to the side and, after the laser correction, an attempt is made to reposition it – which is not always possible. There are also related variants, such as Epi-LASIK, No-Touch-PRK and EBK, which differ in how the cornea is prepared.
Is the LASEK/PRK procedure painful?
The procedure itself is painless – the patient receives anaesthetic eye drops and the eyelids are painlessly held open with a speculum; during the laser treatment you only hear its sound. Pain may occur after the procedure, during the cell regeneration period of the first 2-3 days, because the upper layer of the cornea has been removed. The discomfort can be effectively relieved with painkillers.
How long are bandage lenses worn after LASEK/PRK?
At the end of the procedure, soft bandage contact lenses with high oxygen permeability are fitted to protect the eyes after surgery. The surgeon removes them after 2-4 days. Bear in mind that the quality of vision may still change in the first weeks and months after the procedure, which is why follow-up appointments are important.
Who are the LASEK/PRK surface methods suitable for?
Surface methods are chosen, among other reasons, when the structure of the cornea – for example a cornea that is too thin – is a contraindication to flap-based methods such as LASIK. Suitability is always decided by the doctor after a detailed preliminary examination, assessing the eye’s parameters and the stability of the refractive error. During the consultation, the correction technique best matched to your specific refractive error is proposed.
How much does surface laser vision correction cost?
At SwissLaser, surface procedures are performed primarily as the modern, no-touch Trans-PRK smart surFace variant, priced according to the official price list at PLN 10,000 for both eyes (PLN 5,500 for one eye). The suitability assessment costs PLN 400. Payment in instalments through Santander Consumer Bank is available; NFZ (Poland’s national health fund) does not reimburse laser vision correction.
