Skip to content
Phototherapeutic Keratectomy – PTK
The problem
- The front of the cornea has an irregular shape causing irritation, reduced vision, contact lens intolerance or pain
Surgery
- This Excimer laser is used also for refractive surgery
- A laser is required to smooth and polish the cornea restoring vision
- During surgery, you will note an unusual smell from the gas discharge of the laser. This is NORMAL
- The time for surgery is variable depending on the type of problem, around 30 minutes
- No stitches are required, and a contact lens may be placed before padding the eye.
- The pad is removed day 1.
- The eye will be sore until the skin grows back over the cornea
After Surgery
- The eye may appear slightly red, and this may last a few days
- Discomfort is normal, especially in the first few days. Pain relief tablets will help
- Vision may take several weeks to return to normal, as the skin of the eye remodels
- You may need to change your glasses, and Dr Maloof will advise when this can be done
- In some cases, the original disease process can recur years later
What to do
- Leave the contact lens in place
- Commence eye drops the next day after removing your pad
- Take any pain relief prescribed
- Continue any glaucoma eye drops
- You may be given anesthetic drop for comfort. Please only use one drop every 4 hours, for 3 days
- Expect some discomfort to sunlight or bright lights
- Expect some side effects from pain relief medications including nausea, dizziness, and constipation