Autologous serum (PRP) eye drops that help promote healing of eye wounds

 

Dry eye syndrome is a common ophthalmic condition that causes discomfort by damaging the surface of the eye due to either insufficient tear production or excessive tear evaporation. It is very prevalent — affecting approximately 75% of adults in Korea. While it was previously more common among the elderly, its incidence has recently increased in younger populations due to increased use of IT devices such as smartphones, computers, and tablets, as well as environmental factors like fine dust and air pollution.

Common Symptoms of Dry Eye Syndrome

Dry eye syndrome can cause symptoms such as stinging, dryness, itching, and redness. These symptoms may lead to corneal epithelial damage, and in severe cases, may result in decreased vision. When symptoms are significant, patients may have difficulty keeping their eyes open, which can interfere with daily activities. Eye fatigue and headaches may also accompany the condition.

In the early stages of dry eye syndrome, artificial tears may provide temporary relief. However, when symptoms progress, artificial tears alone are often insufficient for adequate improvement. In such cases, specialized ophthalmic treatments such as IPL (Intense Pulsed Light) therapy or PRP eye drops may be considered.

What Are PRP Eye Drops?

PRP (Platelet-Rich Plasma) is plasma derived from blood in which platelets—responsible for wound healing and tissue regeneration—are separated and concentrated. PRP eye drops, approved by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA), are a regenerative treatment option used in the management of dry eye syndrome and are gaining attention as a safe and effective therapeutic approach.

PRP eye drops help relieve microscopic corneal injuries and pain, while promoting regeneration of damaged tissue and accelerating the healing process.

An important factor influencing the effectiveness of PRP eye drops is the concentration of autologous serum. Higher concentrations may contribute to improved tissue regeneration and faster recovery. Because PRP eye drops are prepared from the patient’s own blood, they are associated with a low risk of immune rejection or significant adverse effects.

Indications for PRP Eye Drops

PRP eye drops may be effectively used in the following cases:

1. Patients with Dry Eye Symptoms

The use of PRP eye drops before and after ocular procedures may help suppress infection and inflammation and can positively influence the recovery process.

2. Patients Undergoing or Planning Refractive Surgery

For patients undergoing refractive procedures such as SMILE, LASIK, or LASEK, PRP eye drops may promote regeneration of damaged corneal epithelial cells and support more stable postoperative recovery.

3. Patients with Corneal Pain or Injury

In cases accompanied by corneal pain or epithelial defects, PRP eye drops may help reduce discomfort and facilitate faster healing.

Important Considerations When Using PRP Eye Drops

Since PRP eye drops do not contain preservatives, proper storage and hygiene are essential. If considering PRP eye drops for dry eye treatment, it is important to verify the following:

• Whether high-concentration autologous serum preparation is available

• Whether the facility maintains safe and sterile manufacturing and management systems

• Whether single-use containers are provided for convenient and hygienic application

PRP Eye Drop Treatment at Bright Eye Clinic

At Bright Eye Clinic in Gangnam, PRP eye drop therapy is provided to support stable recovery after various refractive surgeries, including LASIK, LASEK, and SMILE. The clinic utilizes advanced university hospital–level equipment and a comprehensive 17-step precision eye examination system conducted by experienced medical professionals to deliver individualized treatment tailored to each patient’s ocular condition.

If you are experiencing discomfort from dry eye syndrome or other ocular conditions, professional evaluation and treatment at Bright Eye Clinic may be considered.