What is a Corneal Surface Ablation Surgery?

Corneal surface ablation is a procedure where a vision correction surgeon gently removes the epithelium (surface) of the cornea and treats the refractive error on the front surface of the cornea. Corneal surface ablation is an alternative to LASIK that’s also commonly known as photorefractive keratectomy or PRK. Other common names are LASEK, Advanced Surface Ablation, Epi-LASIK, or no-flap LASIK.

How Long Does it Take For Corneal Surface Ablation to Work?

When Dr. Mozayeni and Dr. Nunnery perform PRK, patients are typically cleared to drive five days after their procedure and their vision continues to improve in the coming weeks. Vision does tend to fluctuate over a few months (which is perfectly normal) before it settles down to its final point, which, for ideal candidates, is typically 20/20.

Corneal Surface Ablation vs. Corneal Abrasion

Corneal abrasion is a fancy term for a scratch on your cornea. Being poked in the eye or getting something stuck in your eye can scratch the cornea and cause a corneal abrasion. Although very painful and annoying, a corneal abrasion does not require surgery. Typically, a clear ‘band-aid’ contact lens and proper eye drops provided by an eye care provider will keep you comfortable and help the cornea heal in a few days.


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