PTK in Beverly Hills (phototherapeutic keratectomy) surgery is performed with an excimer laser. This state-of-the-art laser allows our eye surgeons to remove the thinnest outer layer of tissue from the cornea with ultimate precision. This treatment can resolve an array of vision problems that, in the past, could only be repaired with a corneal transplant.

How does PTK work?

PTK allows our eye surgeons to remove microscopically thin layers of corneal tissue to remove scars, irregularities, or cloudiness on the corneal surface. The surgery is so precise that the rest of the cornea is virtually undamaged. Once the surface of the cornea has been smoothed, new tissue regenerates over the surface.

Woman sipping coffee and staring out the window.

PTK vs. Cornea Transplant

A corneal transplant may be necessary for some patients. Still, with the development of PTK, many people with damage to the cornea can restore vision and comfort with much less invasive surgery, and faster recovery time – days, not months.

This procedure may be performed as an alternative to LASIK if you have been diagnosed with epithelial basement membrane dystrophy, an eye condition affecting the cornea.

What is the procedure like to experience?

This laser surgery takes very little time to complete. You will not experience pain and will be resting comfortably throughout the process. Once the precise amount of corneal tissue is vaporized with the excimer laser, and the cornea smoothed, a contact lens bandage is placed over the eye surface to speed healing and reduce residual discomfort. You will be prescribed several eye drops to administer, which must be applied as directed. You will need a few days away from work or other activities to recover and will have pain medication to keep you comfortable. You must not touch your eyes during your recovery.

You can expect your vision to be blurry or cloudy in the early phase of your recovery, which will improve as the days pass. The maximum vision correction is achieved at about six months following PTK surgery.

Why undergo PTK surgery?

PTK surgery may be the most effective treatment if you suffer from any of the following eye conditions:

Corneal scars
Recurrent erosion syndrome (a breakdown of the top layer of the cornea leading to severe eye pain and other symptoms)
Map dot fingerprint conditions (The bottom layer of the cornea thickens or folds creating shapes that appear as dots or fingerprints)

Beverly Hills Institute of Ophthalmology: Why choose us?

Your vision is one of the most treasured of all senses, and damaged vision affects every area of life. When PTK surgery is needed, you want to ensure that your procedure will be performed by a leading eye surgeon with an impeccable reputation. At Beverly Hills Institute of Ophthalmology, we have remained at the forefront in the latest developments in eye surgery and technology, and focus on providing concierge-style service and patient-focused care. As the longest established eye surgery clinic in Beverly Hills, we are proud to have the honor of being considered the premier eye care center in the area.

PTK Beverly Hills

How does PTK work?

PTK vs. Cornea Transplant

What is the procedure like to experience?

Why undergo PTK surgery?

Beverly Hills Institute of Ophthalmology: Why choose us?

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