If you’ve suffered an eye injury, like corneal scarring, or are dealing with substantial dryness from being unable to close your eye, you understand just how painful eye conditions can be. Treatments for corneal injuries generally only treat the inflammation, which can mean you still must deal with pain or scarring.
However, there are other options to help get you through the healing process. If you need to protect your eye while it heals, your McAllen eye doctor can prescribe you a one-of-a-kind treatment — Prokera® amniotic membrane. Also known as Prokera® len, is essentially a bandage for your eye that promotes anti-inflammation, anti-scarring, and healing on damaged eye surfaces.
What Is a Prokera Lens?
The Prokera® lens looks like a large contact lens that consists of an amniotic membrane held in a poly-carbonate ring frame. This membrane has antibacterial properties and stem cells that can help your eyes heal quicker.
The membrane is developed from donated placentas and is thoroughly tested before it is used to heal your eye.
What Does the Prokera® Lens Treat?
The Prokera® amniotic membrane is perfect for any condition where your cornea needs a barrier to protect it from infection or debris. It can also help treat ocular surface disease and dry eye syndrome symptoms.
Your vision specialist may recommend the Prokera® lens if you have any of the following symptoms:
- Eye pain
- Eye infection
- Red or burning eyes
- Distorted vision
- Itchy or watery eyes
- Eye fatigue
Is the Prokera® Amniotic Membrane FDA-Approved?
Prokera® has been recognized by the FDA to reduce inflammation and scarring of the eye. It is currently the only device using an amniotic membrane that has been approved for use by vision specialists.
What Are the Side Effects of Prokera®?
Allergic reactions to the Prokera lens are pretty rare. However, you should let us know if you are allergic to Dulbecco’s Modified Eagle Medium (DMEM), Ciprofloxacin, Glycerol, and/or Amphotericin B.
While they are uncommon, you can always consult your eye specialist if you have concerns about any of the following side effects of treatment:
- Discharge
- Red eyes
- Watery eyes
- Blurry vision or worsened vision
You may also feel the Prokera lens like any other foreign body in your eye. While this can be uncomfortable, it shouldn’t be painful. We can provide some solutions to help relieve any discomfort.
What Can I Expect During Treatment With the Prokera® Amniotic Membrane?
The whole process typically takes about 4-5 days. During the procedure, your eye specialist will put the Prokera lens in place. This will make your vision blurry or cloudy, so you will need someone to drive you home.
During treatment, you will need to keep your face away from water. Don’t go swimming or submerge your face underwater. You should also be sure not to rub your eyes or otherwise dislodge the Prokera amniotic membrane.
You can also expect discharge that can stick your lashes together. You can clean this with a clean wet towel by gently wiping it away, just be sure not to press too hard. Your vision levels will also change as the membrane dissolves at around day 3-4.
You will undergo a checkup to see if another round of treatment is needed. Either way, your doctor will remove the lens during this visit. Be sure you keep any follow-up appointments since you won’t be able to safely remove the lens yourself!
Is Prokera® Covered by Insurance?
Prokera® is covered under Medicare, if your eye doctor has determined that the procedure is medically necessary. Many other insurances cover the treatment as well, but you will need to contact your provider to find out more.
Learn if the Prokera® Amniotic Membrane Can Help You
If you’ve been dealing with a corneal injury or ocular surface disorder, and want to restore the health of your eyes, Prokera® can help you find relief. The vision specialists at Gelman Vision will be able to tell you if you’re a prime candidate for this amazing treatment.
If you’re ready to restore your vision, eye health, and improve your quality of life, look no further than Gelman Vision. Get in touch with us today and see how this form of treatment can work for you!