PRK of the second eye must be delayed until 3 months after a stable surgical result is achieved in the first eye. In the United States, because of FDA requirements, this procedure must be performed under the direction of an institutional review board, whereas elsewhere in the world, it is accepted as a routine procedure. Worldwide, this procedure is preferred because of excellent results, quick recovery of vision, and minimal discomfort. Findings in the clinical trial conducted by Summit Technology, Inc,1 have proved the safety and efficacy of laser-assisted refractive surgery. Vision fluctuates from morning to night until the cornea stabilizes, which may take several weeks to months.
Fluctuation varies according to the extent of surgery, degree of correction, and patient age.
Exposure to bright light may cause glare and the star-burst effect, which resolve within several months after surgery. Regression can occur and may require performance of an enhancement or refinement procedure to produce the desired result. In patients with high degrees of myopia, a hyperopic shift can be of concern for several months to years postoperatively. With ALK, postoperative uncorrected vision is much better than preoperative uncorrected vision, but maximum visual improvement may not be obtained for weeks to months after surgery. Pain or discomfort is minimal.