About Superficial Keratectomy
Superficial keratectomy (SK), often referred to as the Super K procedure, is done to smooth or remove the outermost (anterior) layer of the cornea, the epithelium. Smoothing or removal of the epithelium might become necessary for patients who have certain eye diseases, such as anterior corneal dystrophy, band keratopathy, or Salzmann's nodular degeneration, that cause calcium buildup, scar tissue, and other types of corneal opacities that can impair or block vision. It can also be beneficial for patients who have corneal scarring from an injury or previous eye surgery. Beyond the vision impairment, these problems can also cause chronic eye dryness, a sensation of grittiness, and even pain. A superficial keratectomy is able to smooth away the damaged epithelial tissue, which regenerates on its own over a period of days with healthier, clearer cells.
At Solomon Eye Physicians & Surgeons, we have some of the most experienced and skilled cornea surgeons in Maryland. We perform successful superficial keratectomies on a regular basis for our Greenbelt and Bowie, MD area patients.
Best Candidates
The best candidates for superficial keratectomy (SK) are otherwise healthy individuals who suffer from corneal disorders that affect the epithelium. Some of these conditions include:
- Salzmann's nodular degeneration
- Calcific band keratopathy
- Anterior basement membrane dystrophy (ABMD)
- Reis-Buckler's dystrophy
- Superficial corneal scarring
- Recurrent corneal erosion (RCE)
- Complications after LASIK
Some patients who are planning to undergo cataract surgery also consider having SK. For these patients, smoothing any irregularities of the epithelium can help ensure that the refractive measurements of their new artificial lens are perfect.
What to Expect
A superficial keratectomy is performed as an outpatient procedure with local anesthetic. It is a very safe, quick treatment that is typically completed in just a few minutes. Your eyes will be completely numbed prior to beginning the surgery to ensure your maximum comfort. Then, the surgeon will place a special device over your eye to keep you from blinking or moving the eye. Due to the numbing drops, you will only feel a slight sensation of pressure from the device.
The surgeon will then use a combination of techniques to remove the damaged corneal tissue. A very small, fine instrument will be used to manually smooth the surface of the epithelium, and a device called a diamond burr might be used to gently polish out any deeper damage. When the procedure is complete, a bandage contact lens will be placed in the eye to protect it while it heals.
Solomon Eye Physicians & Surgeons Reviews
I was visiting Maryland, and had an emergency eye situation. I Googled, "Emergency Ophthalmologist Near Me" because I had no idea what else to do and am unfamiliar with the area. Solomon Eye Physicians and Surgeons popped up. Open at 7:30 in the morning. I called and got an actual human being. I explained my issue and within minutes she had me scheduled at the Greenbelt office. Everyone I encountered from the receptionist, to the tech, to Nurse Practitioner Erin Lewis was thoughtful, kind, responsive and polite. I was treated like a long-time patient, as opposed to an emergency drop-in from another state. It was confirmed that I indeed had an urgent situation. My good fortune that I recognized the warning signs of my eye in distress, acted on them, and this listing popped up first. I appreciate the service, professionalism and the visit.
Today the team at Greenbelt were on point. Dr Nancy was running a little behind but Mikias, Lorraine & Calais handle the customers with ease & great poise. They smiled and did not buckle under the pressure of the office running behind. Great job Greenbelt team at Solomon’s Eye!
Dr. Solomon is an excellent and caring doctor. He took the time to explain everything clearly and made me feel comfortable throughout my treatment. Highly recommend!
This is an excellent clinic; Dr. Solomon is great! Very professional and thorough! The staff is courteous also, giving great customer service!
I did not visit the Bowie office, but the Greenbelt office. The staff is very friendly and professional. Their equiment is state-of-the-art. The receptionists are friendly and professional. Technician Chris and Dr. Siddiqui were friendly and professional.
809
Total Reviews
4.9
Average Rating
Follow-Up
Before your procedure, we will give you prescriptions for an antibiotic, steroid, and lubrication eye drops. You'll need to have these filled before your procedure takes place so that you can begin using them immediately afterward.
After your procedure is completed, you will be given very important aftercare instructions, including when and how to use the drops and tips for how to avoid touching your eyes. You will be required to come back to Solomon Eye Physicians & Surgeons the day following your procedure so we can monitor your progress, and we may ask you to come back for one or more further follow-ups. When aftercare instructions are followed properly, most patients recover and have clear vision in about two weeks.
You can clear your corneas
The board-certified ophthalmologists and expert surgeons at Solomon Eye Physicians & Surgeons have successfully treated hundreds of Maryland men and women with anterior corneal disease or damage. A superficial keratectomy is a quick, safe, and relatively pain-free procedure that can reduce or eliminate the symptoms of your corneal condition. Contact us at our Greenbelt or Bowie, MD office soon to find out if the SK procedure could be the solution you need.