PRK Eye Surgery: A Comprehensive Guide to the Procedure and Benefits

What is PRK Eye Surgery?

PRK, or photorefractive keratectomy, is a type of laser eye surgery designed to correct vision issues. It works by reshaping the front surface of your eye, called the cornea. By adjusting how light enters the eye, PRK helps it focus more accurately onto the retina and improves vision.

This procedure is often recommended for people who aren’t suitable candidates for LASIK. Unlike LASIK, PRK doesn’t involve creating a flap in the cornea. Instead, the cornea’s outer layer is gently removed, and the laser is applied directly to reshape the underlying surface. The outer layer grows back naturally, though this may take a longer time, usually up to a week.

PRK eye surgery is commonly used to correct nearsightedness, farsightedness, and astigmatism. Many patients in India have benefited from PRK, especially those with thin corneas who are not suitable for LASIK. 

With PRK, vision improves gradually over time, offering freedom from glasses and discomfort caused by contact lenses.

Who can get PRK?

PRK surgery is suitable for adults who are at least 18 years old, ideally 21 or above, with stable refractive error for at least a year. If you have had no significant change in your spectacle prescription recently, this could be a good option to consider.

It is particularly helpful for those with active lifestyles. If you are into sports or have a job that involves physical activity, PRK treatment can be more reliable than LASIK since there’s no risk of a corneal flap becoming displaced.

PRK eye surgery is also recommended for people with thin corneas or abnormal corneal surface, where LASIK may not be suitable. Women who are pregnant or breastfeeding, however, are usually advised to wait, as hormonal changes can affect vision. A consultation with a specialist, such as the experts at Nethradhama Super Specialty Eye Hospital, can help determine if PRK is the right choice for you.

What conditions can PRK be used to treat?

PRK laser eye surgery can correct a variety of vision issues.

Nearsightedness (Myopia): People with myopia have trouble seeing distant objects clearly.

Farsightedness (Hyperopia): Those with hyperopia struggle to focus on close objects.

Astigmatism: This condition causes blurry or distorted vision due to an unevenly shaped cornea.

PRK can be combined along with corneal collagen cross linking, called as PRK XTRA in patients with borderline/thin corneas, which offers better stability to the cornea.

In India, where long working hours and screen time are common, many people find PRK to be an effective way to restore clarity to their vision.

Benefits of PRK Laser Eye Surgery

Choosing PRK laser eye surgery comes with several advantages listed below.

Long-lasting results: The effects of PRK surgery are typically long-lasting, though natural age-related changes in vision may still occur over time.

No risk of flap complications: Since PRK doesn’t create a flap like LASIK, it’s a safer choice for people with physically demanding routines.

Improved vision: Many patients achieve 20/20 or 20/40 vision after PRK treatment, which may reduce or eliminate the need for glasses.

Fewer dry eye symptoms: PRK may be a better alternative for those prone to dry eyes as it doesn’t disturb corneal nerves as much as LASIK. However, temporary dry eye symptoms can still occur during recovery period.

PRK can significantly improve the quality of life by reducing dependence on corrective lenses. After all, who wouldn’t want to wake up in the morning and see the world clearly without scrambling for glasses?

PRK Procedure

The PRK eye procedure follows a structured process. Here’s what you can expect.

What happens before a PRK?

Before the PRK operation, your eye specialist will thoroughly examine your eyes. This will include measuring the thickness of your cornea and checking for any underlying conditions. You’ll also need to stop wearing contact lenses atleast a week before the procedure, as they can affect the shape of your cornea.

During this visit, your doctor will also discuss what you can realistically expect from the surgery. While PRK improves vision, some patients, especially older adults, may still need glasses occasionally—for example, for reading small print.

What happens during a PRK?

The PRK operation itself takes about 10 to 15 minutes per eye. You’ll be awake throughout the procedure, but your eyes will be numbed with anaesthetic drops. 

Your eye surgeon will carefully apply a clip to your eyes to keep your eyelids apart and then remove the outer layer of your cornea using a tool or specially prepared alcohol. You’ll then be asked to focus on a target light while the laser reshapes the cornea. The procedure is completely painless, though you might feel slight pressure during the process.

What happens after a PRK?

After the PRK procedure, your surgeon will place a protective contact lens over your eye to help it heal. You may experience some discomfort or blurriness for a few days. Eye drops will be prescribed to prevent infection and ease any irritation. It’s essential to follow your doctor’s instructions for a smooth recovery.

PRK Surgery Recovery Time

Most patients start noticing clearer vision within a week, but full recovery and visual stability can take up to a month or longer for some people. During the first few days, avoid strenuous activities and wear sunglasses outdoors to protect your eyes from UV exposure. By following your doctor’s advice and attending follow-up visits, you’ll ensure the best outcome.

Risks and Complications of PRK

Like any surgery, PRK laser surgery has potential risks. Some patients may experience temporary dry eyes, halos around lights, or sensitivity to bright light. In rare cases, vision may be slightly undercorrected or overcorrected, which can be managed with additional treatment or glasses. Chances of post surgery ectasia are much lesser as compared to LASIK. However, complications are uncommon, and most patients recover without any long-term issues.

If you have concerns about the risks, it’s best to consult a trusted specialist. Nethradhama Super Specialty Eye Hospital offers personalised care to help you understand the procedure and reduce risks.

Conclusion

PRK eye surgery offers a reliable solution for people seeking clearer vision without the hassle of glasses or contact lenses. It’s especially useful for those with thin corneas, dry eyes, or active lifestyles. While the recovery may take some time, the long-term benefits make it worth considering. 

If you are exploring vision correction options, consult with a specialist to see if PRK is the right fit for you. With the proper care and guidance, you’ll be on your way to clearer vision and a more comfortable life.