PTK or “phototherapeutic keratectomy” is a laser surgical procedure to manage various corneal conditions. Top surgeon Dr. Ella Faktorovich has performed advanced PTK procedures for over 15 years. PTK treats superficial corneal disease, irregularities, and opacities. It is an effective alternative for LASIK patients who have been diagnosed with epithelial basement membrane dystrophy.
PTK is a surgical therapeutic treatment that uses a medical device called an excimer laser, with the control of a computer to remove a small outer layer of diseased tissue from the cornea. The precision of the procedure leaves the surrounding area with very little trauma. After removing the damaged layer, new tissue is left, which will naturally restore over the newly smoothed surface area. Once the procedure is complete, a contact lens bandage is placed to allow adequate healing and to reduce any pain or discomfort felt. Antibiotics and prescription eye drops will be prescribed and are an important element of the recovery process.
You should plan to take a few days off from work to allow time to recover fully. You may experience some minor discomfort in the early stages of healing. Ensure you are using the prescribed antibiotic eye drops and take pain medication if needed. You should not touch or rub your eyes during recovery. If needed, an eye shield will protect your eyes. Your eyesight will be cloudy or blurry for the first seven days after surgery but will consistently improve over time. Allow at least six months for your peak vision correction from PTK to be achieved.
You will need to plan on having someone drive you to your appointment and be there to drive you home. During the next few days, you should plan on resting at home. It will take seven to ten days before your eyesight begins to stabilize. Each patient is different, but you should be able to drive again if you feel comfortable at that time.
PTK is similar to laser vision correction surgery in the actual surgical process. The main difference is that LASIK is a vision correction procedure selected by those who want to correct vision, so they have no need to wear glasses or contacts. PTK is used to treat corneal disease, rather than correct vision.
Like any form of surgery, there are some risks that should be considered. Patients can experience bacterial infection or corneal haze. These issues are usually mild and resolve over time. When considering PTK, it is important to discuss all your questions and concerns with us, so you are confident that our recommended treatment is appropriate, based upon your condition, and that you are being treated by a top eye surgeon in San Francisco.
Specializing in world-class vision correction surgery, LASIK surgery, and a range of other laser eye surgeries, Dr. Ella Faktorovich is one of the most respected vision correction specialists in the San Francisco Bay Area. She and her practice are the first choice for other physicians, surgeons, CEOs, and corporate leaders in the Bay Area and beyond. The team at Pacific Vision Institute is driven by Innovation, Leadership, and Passion for Perfection. From the minute you enter the doors at Pacific Vision Institute, you will immediately know you are under the care of some of the nation’s most respected vision correction specialists. We take your trust in us very seriously.
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