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Phototherapeutic keratectomy (PTK) is a laser procedure used to treat conditions affecting
the corneal surface, such as recurrent erosions, superficial scars, and certain dystrophies.
Unlike laser vision correction, PTK removes damaged tissue to improve comfort, clarity, and
eye health.
PTK is a type of laser eye surgery used to treat conditions affecting the superficial layers of
the cornea. PTK uses the same excimer laser as PRK, but for a different purpose. Rather
than reshaping the cornea to correct prescription, PTK removes irregular or damaged
surface tissue, allowing healthier tissue to regenerate.
When the surface layer repeatedly peels away, causing sudden severe pain, watering, and light sensitivity – often upon waking.
Also called map-dot-fingerprint dystrophy, this condition causes irregular surface patterns leading to recurrent corneal erosions and/or visual blur.
From previous injuries, infections, or surgery – PTK can reduce or remove shallow scars affecting vision.
Reis-Bucklers, lattice, or granular dystrophies causing superficial deposits or changes.
Calcium deposits on the corneal surface causing opacity and discomfort.
The excimer laser precisely removes thin layers of damaged corneal tissue. For recurrent
erosions, the laser freshens the surface so new epithelium adheres more securely. For scars and dystrophies, it removes affected tissue to restore smoothness and clarity.
Both use the excimer laser on the corneal surface, but PRK is a refractive procedure (corrects prescription) while PTK is therapeutic (treats corneal disease).
In some cases, PTK and PRK can be combined—if you need surface treatment and also want to reduce dependence on glasses.
PTK is typically considered when conservative treatments (lubricants, ointments, bandage
lenses) haven’t controlled your condition.
• Recurrent erosions not responding to conservative treatment
• Superficial scars affecting vision
• Corneal dystrophies causing symptoms
• Band keratopathy or other superficial deposits
• The pathology extends too deep into the cornea
• There is active infection or inflammation
• Corneal thickness is insufficient
You’ll have a comprehensive assessment including corneal imaging to determine the depth
and extent of the condition. Bring your current glasses prescription, medication list, and
details of any previous treatments.
• Numbing drops are applied
• A speculum gently holds your eyelids open
• The epithelium is removed (by laser or manually)
• The excimer laser treats the affected area (~30–60 seconds)
• A bandage contact lens is placed to support healing
The procedure takes approximately 10 minutes per eye.
• The first 3 days are most uncomfortable (watering, light sensitivity, grittiness)
• The bandage lens stays in place for about a week
• Vision improves gradually as the surface heals
• Most people take about a week off work
• Full stabilisation can take up to three months
For recurrent erosions
Studies show success rates over 96% for preventing further erosions. Most patients
experience significant relief from the pain and disruption caused by repeated episodes.
For scars and dystrophies
PTK can improve clarity by removing superficial opacities. Dystrophies may gradually recur
(as they’re genetic), but PTK provides meaningful improvement for years.
Possible side effects
• Temporary discomfort during healing
• Corneal haze (usually mild, often resolves)
• Hyperopic shift (may need updated glasses)
• Recurrence of underlying condition
PTK can often be repeated if needed, provided sufficient corneal thickness remains.
For superficial conditions, PTK can delay or avoid corneal transplant – restoring clarity without the complexity of transplant surgery. However, deeper pathology may still require transplantation.
Professional expertise
Corneal expertise across erosions, dystrophies, and scarring
Combined treatment options
Combined PTK + PRK available when appropriate
It’s repeated breakdown of the corneal surface due to poor epithelial adhesion, often at the site of a previous injury. Causes sudden severe pain, watering, and light sensitivity, typically
upon waking.
PTK can cause a small prescription shift, usually toward long-sightedness. Your glasses prescription may need updating once stable.
Vision is blurry for the first few days while the surface heals, then improves gradually. Full stabilisation can take weeks to months.
The procedure itself is painless as numbing drops are used. Discomfort occurs for several
days afterwards while the surface heals, and is managed with drops and a bandage lens.
No. PTK treats corneal disease; PRK corrects prescription. Both use the same laser, and can sometimes be combined.
Yes, if the condition recurs and sufficient corneal thickness remains.
For superficial conditions, yes – PTK can restore clarity without a corneal transplant. Deeper pathology may still require transplantation.
Rediscover clearer vision
Location: G11-12/566 St Kilda Road, Melbourne VIC 3004
Phone: (03) 9070 0955
Fax: (03) 9978 9426
E-mail: info@cityeyesurgeons.com.au
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