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Photorefractive keratectomy is a laser eye surgery that reshapes the corneal surface to correct nearsightedness, farsightedness, or astigmatism. The epithelium is removed, then an excimer laser sculpts the stroma to the planned curvature. A bandage contact lens protects the eye while the surface heals. PRK suits patients with thinner corneas or those at risk from corneal flaps.
read more about photorefractive keratectomy prk ...LASIK creates a flap before laser reshaping, while PRK treats the surface without a flap. PRK healing takes longer and can be more uncomfortable initially, but long term visual results are comparable. Athletes and certain professions prefer PRK to avoid flap related issues. Surface healing usually completes over several days.
LASIK offers quicker comfort due to the protective flap. PRK suits people who want fewer flap related risks. Both improve focus by reshaping the cornea with precise pulses. Over time, results usually match closely.
Adults with stable prescriptions, adequate corneal thickness, and healthy ocular surfaces are considered. Dry eye, irregular topography, or certain systemic conditions require caution. Preoperative mapping and tear assessment refine selection. A detailed consult aligns goals with outcomes.
Vision improves gradually over weeks as the epithelium smooths. Patients use antibiotics, steroids, and lubricants while the bandage lens remains in place for several days. Glare and fluctuations are common early on. Most resume normal activities within a week.
Potential issues include haze, infection, regression, or dry eye symptoms. Modern techniques and medications reduce these risks. Night halos often fade as healing completes. Regular follow up ensures steady progress.
Photorefractive Keratectomy. StatPearls (NCBI Bookshelf). https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK549887/. September 14, 2025.
PRK Eye Surgery. Cleveland Clinic. https://my.clevelandclinic.org/health/procedures/prk-surgery. June 28, 2024.
Laser eye surgery and lens surgery. NHS. https://www.nhs.uk/conditions/laser-eye-surgery-and-lens-surgery/. February 15, 2024.
PRK in 2024: Who, Why and How? Review of Ophthalmology. https://www.reviewofophthalmology.com/article/prk-in-2024-who-why-and-how. September 10, 2024.
Photorefractive Keratectomy. PubMed. https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/29262140/. 2025.
Photorefractive Keratectomy. StatPearls (NCBI Bookshelf). https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK549887/. September 14, 2025.
PRK Eye Surgery. Cleveland Clinic. https://my.clevelandclinic.org/health/procedures/prk-surgery. June 28, 2024.
Laser eye surgery and lens surgery. NHS. https://www.nhs.uk/conditions/laser-eye-surgery-and-lens-surgery/. February 15, 2024.
PRK in 2024: Who, Why and How? Review of Ophthalmology. https://www.reviewofophthalmology.com/article/prk-in-2024-who-why-and-how. September 10, 2024.
Photorefractive Keratectomy. PubMed. https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/29262140/. 2025.