Keratectomy in Massachusetts & Rhode Island

Phototherapeutic keratectomy (PTK) is a procedure that treats corneal disorders and diseases using a laser, which removes cloudiness and irregularities. Until PTK was approved for cornea treatment, full-thickness corneal transplants were the only option for treating an irregular or clouded cornea. However, PTK has provided an exciting alternative that can prevent or delay the need for a transplant. PTK creates a smooth corneal surface by removing a precise amount of damaged or diseased tissue, leaving a more natural surface for light to refract off of. The innovative technique is highly customizable to meet the needs of most patients.

Contact Eye Health Vision Centers to schedule a consultation and learn more about PTK. We have offices in Middletown, RI and Fairhaven, Fall River, Taunton, and Dartmouth, MA to serve our greater South Coast-area patients.

PTK is an ideal treatment for patients that are experiencing pain, watering eyes, and inconsistent vision related to corneal disease or disorder. PTK can address most of the underlying causes of these symptoms and provide a smoother corneal surface so that vision is improved. Patients with health issues, such as rheumatoid arthritis, systemic lupus, or uncontrolled diabetes, may be better suited for a different treatment. During your consultation at Eye Health Vision Centers, a member of our team will ask about your medical history and lifestyle and perform an eye examination to determine if you are a good candidate for PTK.

Your Keratectomy will be performed at our Dartmouth or Taunton, MA office or at the New Bedford Surgicenter. This surgery is very straightforward and fast, typically completed in less than 15 minutes. Before beginning the procedure, a member of our team will numb your eyes with a specialized eye drop. Next, a special eyelid holder called a speculum will be placed over the affected eye to hold it open during the treatment. Finally, an excimer laser will be used to target and remove the diseased or damaged tissue, addressing corneal irregularities simultaneously. After the treatment is complete, a specialized contact lens will be placed over the treated eye to protect it and expedite your healing process. The contact lens also helps to decrease discomfort.

Your surgeon will prescribe medications following your appointment that should be used as directed to prevent infection and control pain. We recommend the use of cold compresses to control additional discomfort during your healing process. Patients may see improved vision in as little as one-day post-procedure with others needing a few more days to see optimal results. The possibility of infection after PTK is very low, but patients should attend follow-up appointments as scheduled so that our team can monitor your healing and detect the signs of infection early on.

Being diagnosed with a corneal disease or disorder does not mean that you have to suffer from poor vision that is not improved with glasses or contacts. If you are suffering from the symptoms of a corneal condition and would like to learn more about PTK as a potential treatment option, contact Eye Health Vision Centers at one of our greater South Coast-area facilities today. Meet with a skilled ophthalmologist during your consultation to hear about all of your options and learn if you are an ideal candidate for PTK.