PTK

ptk surgery

What is PTK?

Phototherapeutic Keratectomy (PTK) stands as an advanced laser eye surgery technique designed to address a range of corneal disorders. Precision Vision, a distinguished provider situated in the heart of London, distinguishes itself by offering personalised eye treatments.

Renowned for prioritising quality over quantity, Precision Vision, led by the esteemed surgeon Dr. CT Pillai, ensures a tailored approach to patient care, fostering optimal results in laser eye surgery. Experience the freedom from glasses with our expertise, as we remain committed to delivering exceptional and personalized eye care services in the vibrant city of London.

Laser Surgery Prices starting from just £89.58 per eye/month.

with a £250 deposit for 24 months

About PTK Surgery

About Suitability

About

Precision Vision – Your Expert in Phototherapeutic Keratectomy (PTK)

Discover the advanced laser treatment, Phototherapeutic Keratectomy (PTK), exclusively offered at Precision Vision. PTK is a cutting-edge laser therapy designed to address various corneal pathologies, focusing on the front surface of the eye. While similar to the more widely known PRK (photorefractive keratectomy), PTK is distinct in its therapeutic application, serving to treat chronic corneal conditions rather than vision correction.

Key Objectives of PTK Treatment:

1. Remove or Decrease Opacities: PTK aims to eliminate or reduce opacities, including blurring, misting, and scarring, which impact visual acuity.

2. Smooth the Corneal Surface: The treatment works to create a smoother corneal surface, enhancing overall eye health.

3. Improve Adherence of the Corneal Epithelium: PTK seeks to enhance the adherence of the corneal epithelium, a crucial aspect for eye function and health.

4. Alleviate Painful Symptoms: Beyond visual improvements, PTK is instrumental in alleviating painful symptoms associated with long-term corneal conditions.

Precision Vision is your trusted partner in offering PTK, delivering a sophisticated and tailored approach to laser therapy. Our skilled team understands the unique needs of each patient, ensuring optimal outcomes in the treatment of chronic corneal pathologies.

Experience the Precision Vision difference – where expertise meets innovation. Visit our clinic to explore the possibilities of Phototherapeutic Keratectomy for enhanced eye health and relief from corneal conditions.

Benefits

Discover the transformative benefits of Phototherapeutic Keratectomy (PTK) exclusively at Precision Vision. Our advanced PTK treatment not only stops recurrent corneal problems such as pain and haze but also enhances visual quality, offering a comprehensive solution to chronic eye conditions.

Key Advantages of PTK Treatment:

1. Halt Recurrent Corneal Problems: PTK effectively puts an end to recurrent corneal issues, providing relief from pain and haze for sustained eye health.

2. Visual Quality Improvement: Experience an enhancement in visual quality as PTK addresses and rectifies corneal conditions, ensuring clearer and more comfortable vision.

3. Prescription Changes: In some cases, there might be a prescription change, which Precision Vision addresses with additional laser treatments, ensuring optimal visual outcomes.

4. Avoid Long-Term Reliance: PTK eliminates the need for long-term use of lubricants and contact lens wear, offering a sustainable solution to chronic corneal problems.

With a successful track record spanning over 10 years since the inception of the excimer laser in therapeutic treatments, Precision Vision is a trusted provider of PTK. Research in laser eye surgery underscores the effectiveness of PTK, with reported success rates as high as 90%.

Experience the Precision Vision difference – where innovation meets expertise. Visit our clinic to explore the potential of PTK for lasting relief from corneal issues and an improvement in your overall eye health.

Suitability

To be potentially suitable you must have one of the following diagnosed medical issues:

Recurrent corneal erosions
Superficial corneal scars and opacity (from trauma and inactive infections)
Dystrophies (Reis-Buckler’s, granular and lattice)
Salzmann’s nodular degeneration
Band keratopathy
Painful bullous keratopathy

Contraindications

At Precision Vision we are passionate about getting the best outcomes for our patients however we do not provide any experimental treatments and do not operate on those who suffer from conditions that prevent safe and ethical treatment.

Common reasons why patients are found unsuitable for PTK laser treatment include:

Deep stromal lesions, dense band keratopathy
Significant corneal thinning
Neurotrophic cornea
Lagophthalmos
Severe keratoconjunctivitis sicca
Severe blepharitis
Corneal infection

Treatment

About Treatment Process

About

PTK surgery does not directly correct the vision but is used to treat the painful symptoms from anterior corneal injuries, scars and removes surface level corneal disease such as corneal dystrophy and epithelial erosion syndrome, which can affect the quality of vision.

The first layer of the cornea (epithelium) is removed using an alcohol solution, and the excimer laser is applied to the eye to remove a minute layer.

In theory, this provides a sounder base layer for healing of the erosion and also allows the corneal epithelium cells to heal all in one “sheet” – this allows for more uniform healing to occur. Following the surgery, a bandage contact lens is put in place to allow healing and reduce pain. There is also a regimen of antibiotic, steroid and pain reducing eye drops that must be followed, as well as the use of moisturising eye drops.

Treatment Process

When arriving at the clinic on the day of surgery our friendly and experienced clinical team will guide you through every step of the way. Prior to the procedure you given a mild oral sedative to help you relax.

The PTK procedure is as follows:

Anaesthetic drops are then applied to numb the eyes. You will be awake and comfortable throughout the procedure
The consultant will then apply an eye lid guard which is used to prevent blinking
The excimer laseris focussed at a particular depth and lasts for only a few seconds
A protective soft contact lens is placed in each eye for 4 days
Your specialist nurse will go through ANY precautions and medications that are needed to aid recovery
Your aftercare will begin 4 days after the procedure

Technology

SCHWIND AMARIS 1050RS Advanced Control Eye Tracking (ACE) System

Schwind Amaris 1050RS

The SCHWIND AMARIS 1050RS is a top-tier eye laser system renowned for its unmatched performance in refractive and therapeutic corneal surgery. Equipped with a 1050 Hz pulse rate and 7D eye tracking, it ensures exceptional speed, precision, and safety. Its versatility is highlighted by compatibility with standard laser treatment methods and the innovative SmartSurfACE technology, which promotes faster healing and vision recovery. The device’s convenience is enhanced by a swivelling laser arm, while its premium design adds aesthetic appeal.

High-performance laser system for refractive and therapeutic corneal surgery
Exceptional speed and safety with a 1.3 seconds per dioptre* ablation rate
Precision ensured by 7D eye tracking technology
Versatile applications including touch-free SmartSurfACE treatment
Convenience for both doctor and patient with a swivel laser arm
⁠Premium design with a high-gloss finish

Advanced Control Eye Tracking System

During the consultation a scan and map the entire iris of each eye is performed. Like finger prints, no two irises are the same and a unique digital identification is generated for each eye. It is this map that forms the foundation from which the multi-dimensional eye tracker operates.

Throughout the procedure the Advanced Control Eye-tracking (ACE) system is used, this is a 6-dimensional eye tracker which will guide the laser during the treatment by tracking and mirroring the movement of the eye, and if there is too much movement the laser will shut off.

Before treatment can begin the ACE system has to first recognise the unique ID for the eye being treated. This ensures the treatment profiles are always associated with the correct patient and the correct eye of the patient.

Iris recognition technology ensures accurate placement of your personalised laser treatment
Tracks all eye movements – 6 dimensions (XYZ, intraoperative rotations and static rotations using iris recognition technology)
Takes pictures of the eye (sampling rate) 1,750 times per second (1750Hz)
Has a response time of 2ms – so no laser pulses are ever misplaced
The eye tracker can follow the most sudden or subtle of eye movements

Your 4 step Treatment Plan

Our approach revolves around prioritising your optimal well-being.

Prior to your consultation

Your first point of contact will be with Precision Vision’s highly trained and knowledgeable patient coordinators.

Treatment

On the day of your treatment, our clinical team will guide you through the process and address any concerns or questions you may have.

Eye Surgery

Consultation

At Precision Vision, we believe that it is essential to be selective to ensure that every patient has the best treatment to suit their visual and lifestyle needs which is why determining suitability is incredibly important.

Aftercare

Your aftercare begins immediately after treatment when you are taken to the recovery room to relax and, when you are ready to leave, our specialist nurse will examine you before you go home.

Price Guide

PTK

Deposit payment prior to the consultation – £200

This deposit is taken at the time of booking and is non refundable once the consultation has been attended.

Phototherapeutic Keratectomy – £2100 per eye

A deposit of £250 per eye is required when booking, this is deducted from the final cost of treatment.

Once the aftercare program has been completed, you will be discharged, however, it is recommended that check-ups are scheduled after 4 or 5 days. 

Precision Vision’s Gold Standard PTK Package includes:  
A fully comprehensive consultation with Precision Vision’s expert team – including essential eye tests, health checks, dilation, biometry and topographic mapping.
A personalised treatment plan tailored to your needs.
Safe, gentle, and touch-free treatment with SmartSurf AC
All inclusive 12 month aftercare program.
24-hour post treatment telephone access to Precision Vision's expert team.
All post-operative medication is provided for 1 month after surgery.
Affordable payment options designed for everyone, with interest free and interest bearing options available

Why choose Precision Vision for PTK Laser Eye Surgery?

Top-notch Treatments

Precision Vision sets the standard in laser eye treatments, with Advanced Wavefront technology used in all our procedures, ensuring our patients always get the best results.. Our clinic features the world’s highest-performance eye laser for refractive and therapeutic corneal surgery.

Exceptional Surgeons

Precision Vision is committed to providing truly personalised treatment plans, uniquely tailored for each eye of every patient. Dr. Pillai, our Medical Director and laser surgeon, stands as one of the pioneering surgeons in the UK to execute bilateral Lasik treatment, treating both eyes on the same day. With over 30 years of experience as an ophthalmic surgeon, Dr. Pillai specialises in refractive and corneal procedures, ensuring the highest level of expertise and care for our patients.

Premium Service

In cases where laser treatment is deemed unsuitable for a patient, Precision Vision provides alternative treatment options to correct their prescription. With the country's largest independent optometrist network, patients have the flexibility to receive treatment at the Harley Street clinic and convenient aftercare at a location closer to them. Our commitment to transparency extends to pricing, ensuring that all patients, regardless of the complexity of their prescription, pay the same price for our services.

PTK Surgery FAQ’s

Does PTK hurt?

Before the procedure, the surgeon will apply anaesthetic drops to numb your eye so no pain is felt. However, the eye lid guard that prevents blinking throughout the procedure can cause some discomfort.

How much time off work will I require?

Following PTK treatment the majority of patients are back to work within a week. However, this can vary depending on your occupation; working in a dusty environment may mean that more time off is needed. The amount of time off work needed will be suggested at your consultation.

Will my private medical insurance cover PTK?

It is not clear to say whether your private medical insurance will cover PTK, as it is entirely dependent on your policy. You should check over your policy in detail and if you are still unsure, contact your insurance company.

Do you treat both eyes simultaneously?

Yes, we treat both eyes on the same day because of the speed of the treatment.

How is PTK different from LASIK or PRK?

Photo-Therapeutic Keratectomy is a laser procedure that is very similar to the more well-known vision correction surgery known as PRK. Preparation, the procedure itself, and post-op are identical in both types of surgery. The main difference is that in Photo-Therapeutic Keratectomy, no vision correction is done. The main purpose is to treat surface level corneal disease and not to remove the need to wear glasses or contact lenses.

PTK differs from LASIK in two main ways. Firstly, LASIK is performed to reduce spectacle and contact lens dependence, therefore making it a vision correction procedure. Secondly, in LASIK, a flap in the cornea is created. In PTK, no flap is created, making it appropriate for those with thin corneas or dry eye. Also, in PTK no vision correction reshaping of the cornea is done.

What are the risks of PTK?

It is a safe and permanent procedure but like any form of surgery it does have a small amount of risk. These risks include glare, halos, starbursts and light sensitivity.

These are usually mild and tend to disappear over a period of time, although they can be permanent in a tiny number of cases. The surgeon will discuss these with you during the consultation as well as assessing your suitability for PTK.