PRK FAQs

PRK, or Photorefractive Keratectomy, is a type of laser eye surgery designed to correct refractive errors and reduce or eliminate the need for glasses or contact lenses. It's a surgical procedure that reshapes the cornea, the transparent front part of the eye, to alter how light enters the eye and is focused on the retina. PRK is particularly effective in treating nearsightedness, farsightedness, and astigmatism.

PRK differs from LASIK in the initial steps of the procedure. In PRK, the surgeon doesn't create a flap on the cornea's surface, as in LASIK. Instead, the outer layer of the cornea, called the epithelium, is gently removed to expose the underlying corneal tissue. Subsequently, an excimer laser is used to precisely reshape the cornea based on the patient's unique prescription. As no flap is created, the healing process in PRK may take a bit longer compared to LASIK. The corneal surface gradually regenerates, providing a smooth and reshaped surface for improved vision. The choice between PRK and LASIK depends on individual factors, and a comprehensive eye examination by a qualified eye care professional is essential to determine the most suitable option for a patient's specific needs.

Everyone’s eyes are different, and it will take time for your vision to stabilize after PRK surgery. Some patients see perfectly one month after their PRK recovery. Others may not have clear vision until six months after surgery. However, most people can expect full sight correction between 3 and 6 months. Always follow your doctor’s medical advice regarding your specific PRK recovery timeline.

Right after surgery:

• Your vision will be blurry
• You’ll wear a contact lens-like bandage
• Someone should drive you home
• Rest your eyes by taking a nap, or relax with your eyes closed at home
• Use prescribed eye drops as instructed by the doctor
• Over-the-counter pain relievers are fine for any discomfort
• Do not stare at your phone or computer screen
• Contact your doctor if you have pain that’s not treated by over-the-counter pain medications

One week after PRK:

• Continue using prescribed eye drops as recommended
• Wear the bandage until your doctor removes it (around day five post-surgery)
• Treat discomfort with over-the-counter pain relievers
• You may experience watery eyes, light sensitivity, blurry vision, slight burning or itching, dry eyes, or the feeling that there’s something in your eye
• Do not rub your eyes; it could interfere with healing
• Get the rest you need to heal

One month after PRK:

• You can return to work, drive, some exercise, and using face and hair products when directed by your doctor
• Avoid high-impact sports
• Avoid activities that could cause chemicals or debris to get in your eye
• You may still experience some visual side effects, including halos, glares, starbursts, or difficulty seeing well at night
• Contact your doctor if side effects or discomfort worsens rather than improving

Six months after PRK:

• You should achieve full vision correction by month six
• You should be able to partake in all normal activities
• You may still have light sensitivity, so wear sunglasses when necessary

One year after PRK:

• Your eyes may be sensitive for the first year following surgery
• Continue wearing sunglasses in bright light
• Discuss anti-glare glasses if looking at screens bothers your eyes

Not getting anything in your eyes during the first week after surgery is vital. Lotions, shampoo, and soap can all irritate the eyes, so take care when showering. Avoid baths, pools, and hot tubs. Avoid wearing makeup, using hair products, and getting your hair colored for as long as directed. Don’t participate in any sports, exercise, or physical activity until you have your doctor’s approval. Getting sweat in your eyes can have adverse effects on your ability to heal.

The more you rest your eyes in the first days after surgery, the faster they will recover. Spend time in darkened rooms and avoid looking at your phone, computer screen, and TV. Stay hydrated and eat a healthy diet incorporating omega-3 fatty acids and lots of vitamins. Wear sunglasses to protect your eyes from UV rays. This is always important, especially for PRK recovery, as your eyes may be sensitive to light for a year following surgery. Sunglasses and anti–glare lenses will help protect your eyes and speed up your PRK recovery time.

You’ll likely experience some discomfort in the first days of your PRK recovery. Days two and three are usually the most uncomfortable, and there can be some eye pain. Blurred vision, sensitivity to light, and itchiness are common after-effects of PRK surgery. Taking over-the-counter pain medication should ease the pain. If this doesn’t help, if you’re still in pain after a week, or if your symptoms worsen, contact your doctor at Dello Russo Laser Vision for advice.

Your eyes need time to recover following PRK, so it’s recommended you don’t read or watch TV on the day of your surgery. The following day, you can pick up your favorite book. However, you may have blurry vision, and your eyes might quickly become tired. If this happens, take regular 10-minute breaks before starting to read again.

It’s normal to experience dry eyes after any corrective surgery. During PRK recovery, your cornea is regenerating and recovering which can cause dry eye symptoms. Medicated eye drops will be prescribed to aid healing, but it’s also essential to keep your eyes lubricated using artificial tear drops. If symptoms persist, speak with your doctor.

Start with a free consultation with one of the skilled doctors at Dello Russo Laser Vision to discuss which eye surgery options are suitable for you. Free, no-obligation virtual consultations are currently available, or feel free to schedule a time to drop by one of our convenient locations. Once your doctor confirms that you are a good candidate for PRK, you can schedule your PRK surgery.