What is PRK?

Photorefractive keratectomy (PRK) is another type of refractive surgery. This kind of surgery uses a laser to reshape the cornea without cutting a flap. During the surgery, the top layer of the eye called epithelium is removed and the laser is fired onto the underlying cornea to achieve the desired result. The top layer grows back on its own within 3-4 days of the surgery.

Since there is no flap created, patients with thinner corneas or higher refractive errors might be more suitable for PRK. Patients with weak corneas also are likely to be subjected to this procedure.

PRK would normally take about 10-15 minutes for both eyes. A contact lens is placed on your eyes at the end of the procedure. You may sleep with the contact lenses on. They will be removed by your doctor when you come for your visit after 1 week. Since the top layer takes 3-4 days to grow back, it is expected to have burning sensation, light sensitivity. Watering and lid swelling in the initial 3-4 days after PRK.

Vision recovery depends on the refractive error being corrected and may take longer than LASIK. You can expect 90% of the vision to be achieved in one week, and the rest 10% to be achieved by one month of the surgery.

Some of the common side effects expected after LASIK are dry eyes leading to grittiness and irritation, glare and haloes especially during driving at nights.

Whether you are suitable for PRK or not, is something your doctor would decide during your consultation.