Photorefractive keratectomy
PRK laser eye surgery
The same laser precision as LASIK, with no corneal flap. PRK is often the better option for thinner corneas, and your surgeon will tell you if it’s the right one for yours.
The basics
What is PRK eye surgery?
PRK (photorefractive keratectomy) is laser vision correction, like other LASIK procedures: a laser reshapes the cornea so light focuses precisely on the retina and vision improves.
The difference is how the laser reaches the cornea. Instead of creating a flap to treat the underlying layers, the thin outer layer of the cornea (the epithelium) is gently removed. It regenerates on its own within about five days, protected by a soft contact lens bandage while it heals.
What it corrects
- Nearsightedness (myopia)
- Farsightedness (hyperopia)
- Astigmatism
When it’s preferred
- Corneas too thin to safely create a LASIK flap
- Certain eye conditions your exam may reveal
The comparison
What’s the difference between LASIK and PRK eye surgery?
Both procedures use the same excimer laser to reshape the cornea, and both aim for the same result. They differ in how the cornea is accessed and how recovery unfolds:
Surface treatment, no flap
LASIK creates a corneal flap to treat the layers underneath. PRK instead removes the thin outer layer, which regenerates naturally in about five days.
Same laser, same goal
The excimer laser, programmed with your exact prescription, reshapes the curve of your cornea in both procedures. Long-term visual outcomes are comparable.
A more gradual recovery
PRK recovery takes longer and involves more early discomfort while the surface heals. Vision improves over days to weeks rather than overnight.
Watch
LASIK vs. PRK, explained
How surgeons decide between the two procedures, and what that means for your eyes.
The procedure
How does PRK work?
The PRK laser eye surgery procedure lasts about 15 minutes. Here’s what to expect, step by step.
Numbing drops
Your surgeon applies anesthetic drops so you stay comfortable throughout. No needles, no general anesthesia.
The epithelium is removed
A central area of the corneal epithelium, the thin outer layer, is gently removed to expose the part of the cornea being reshaped.
The laser reshapes your cornea
The excimer laser, programmed with your exact prescription, reshapes the underlying tissue so light focuses precisely on the retina.
A bandage lens protects the eye
A soft contact lens bandage is placed on the cornea to protect it while the epithelium regenerates over the next several days.
Recovery
Immediately after PRK eye surgery
PRK recovery is more gradual than LASIK, and the results are worth the patience. Your doctor confirms each milestone at your follow-ups.
About 5 days
The bandage lens comes off as new epithelial cells cover the surface of the eye.
Days to weeks
Vision improves gradually rather than overnight. Some blurriness early on is normal.
1 to 3 weeks
Most patients are cleared to drive, once the doctor confirms it at a follow-up.
3 to 6 months
Vision typically reaches its optimum as healing fully settles.
How much does PRK cost?
The cost of PRK is similar to that of traditional LASIK. Laser eye surgery ranges from $1,999 per eye to $4,000 or more, depending on geography, surgeon experience, technology, and your prescription. Your exact all-inclusive price is reviewed at your free consultation.
$1,999+
per eye, with financing plans and FSA/HSA options available
References
- American Academy of Ophthalmology. What is photorefractive keratectomy (PRK)? aao.org (opens in a new tab)
- Food and Drug Administration. (2020, August 25). LASIK. fda.gov (opens in a new tab)