What is PRK (Photorefractive Keratectomy) Surgery?
PRK surgery, short for Photorefractive Keratectomy, is a type of laser eye surgery used to correct vision problems such as nearsightedness, farsightedness, and astigmatism.
The surgeon works by carefully removing the outer layer of the cornea (the epithelium) and then reshaping the underlying corneal tissue with an excimer laser. This reshaping process improves how light enters the eye and focuses on the retina, allowing for clearer and sharper vision.
It is often recommended for patients who may not be suitable for LASIK due to thin corneas, irregular corneal shapes, or lifestyles that carry a higher risk of eye trauma may be better suited for PRK.
Because the surface layer of the cornea naturally regenerates after treatment, PRK can be a suitable choice for patients who need excellent long-term visual stability without compromising corneal strength.
Types of Photorefractive Keratectomy Procedure
PRK is not a single uniform procedure; it can be performed in several variations depending on the patient's eye health, prescription strength, and visual requirements.
Each type uses advanced laser technology but differs in how the corneal surface layer is removed and how the reshaping process is guided.
Standard PRK
- In this approach, the surgeon gently removes the thin outer epithelial layer of the cornea, usually with a small surgical instrument or a special brush.
- Once the surface layer is taken away, the excimer laser is applied to reshape the corneal tissue beneath.
- This method is reliable and has been widely used for many years, offering predictable and consistent outcomes.
Transepithelial PRK (No-touch PRK)
- This technique is more advanced because it eliminates the need for mechanical instruments. Instead, the laser itself removes the outer epithelial layer in a smooth and uniform manner before reshaping the cornea.
- Since no scraping or brushing is involved, many patients experience less discomfort during the healing process and a slightly quicker recovery in the early stages.
Wavefront-guided PRK
- For patients seeking the most customised correction, wavefront-guided PRK uses detailed three-dimensional mapping of the eye's unique optical system.
- This map allows the laser to address not only basic refractive errors like myopia or hyperopia but also subtle visual imperfections called higher-order aberrations.
- As a result, patients often achieve sharper vision, improved night vision, and reduced glare or halos compared to standard treatments.
15-30 Minutes
Surgery Duration
Local (Eye Drops)
Anesthesia Used
3-6 Months
Full Recovery Timeline
When is Photorefractive Keratectomy Surgery Recommended?
PRK surgery is usually recommended for patients who are not good candidates for LASIK but still want freedom from glasses or contact lenses. Doctors suggest this procedure in several situations where the health or shape of the cornea makes PRK a safer and more effective option.
Vision problems like myopia, hyperopia, or astigmatism
- PRK is effective in correcting common refractive errors. It can improve nearsightedness (myopia), farsightedness (hyperopia), and blurred or distorted vision caused by astigmatism.
- The surgery reshapes the cornea so that light focuses correctly on the retina, leading to clearer and sharper vision.
Thin corneas not suitable for LASIK
- patients are not eligible for LASIK because their corneas are too thin to safely create a flap. PRK does not require flap creation, making it a better choice for people with thin corneas while still offering similar long-term results.
Dry eyes or irregular corneal surfaces
- Patients with chronic dry eye symptoms or those with irregular corneal shapes often benefit more from PRK than LASIK.
- Since PRK removes only the surface layer of the cornea without cutting deeper tissue, it reduces the risk of worsening dryness or complications linked to corneal irregularities.
Active Lifestyles Where LASIK Flap Complications are a Concern
- For athletes, military personnel, or individuals with jobs and hobbies that involve physical impact or risk of eye injury, PRK is often safer than LASIK.
- Because the procedure does not create a corneal flap, there is no risk of flap displacement in the future, making it more suitable for physically demanding lifestyles.
How to Prepare for PRK Surgery?
Proper preparation plays a crucial role in ensuring that PRK (Photorefractive Keratectomy) surgery goes smoothly and that recovery is as quick and comfortable as possible.
By following your doctor's advice and making certain adjustments in advance, you can minimise risks and support better healing.
Medical Evaluation & Tests
- Before surgery, you will undergo a series of eye examinations to confirm whether you are a suitable candidate for PRK. These include corneal thickness, pupil size, tear production, overall eye health.
- Vision tests are also carried out to measure refractive errors such as nearsightedness, farsightedness, or astigmatism.
- In some cases, your doctor may also review your general health history and medications to avoid complications.
Lifestyle Adjustments
- Your surgeon will likely ask you to stop wearing contact lenses for a period before the surgery, as lenses can temporarily change the shape of your cornea and affect test results.
- Limiting smoking and alcohol consumption in the days before surgery is also important, as it can dehydrate the body and eyes. These small but important lifestyle changes help create the best conditions for recovery.
Home Preparation
- You should arrange for someone to drive you to and from the hospital on the day of your procedure, since you will not be able to drive immediately afterward.
- Stocking up on doctor-recommended lubricating eye drops, pain relievers, and protective sunglasses will help you manage dryness and light sensitivity in the days following surgery.
- Preparing a comfortable, low-light resting space at home can also be very beneficial during the first few days of recovery.
Day Before & Day of Surgery
- Follow doctor's fasting and hygiene instructions. Do not wear makeup or apply creams around the eyes.
- On the day of surgery, wear comfortable clothing and avoid accessories like earrings or necklaces that may interfere with the procedure.
- Keeping your face clean and makeup-free reduces the risk of infection and helps your surgeon operate with maximum precision.
What Happens During Photorefractive Keratectomy Surgery?
Photorefractive Keratectomy (PRK) is a safe and effective laser vision correction procedure designed to improve eyesight by reshaping the cornea.
Although it involves delicate eye work, the surgery itself is relatively quick and generally painless. The process is carried out in several carefully planned steps.
Preparation & Anesthesia
- Before surgery begins, the eye is cleaned and prepared in a sterile environment. To ensure comfort, numbing eye drops are applied so the patient does not feel pain during the procedure.
- Unlike general anesthesia, this method allows patients to remain awake but relaxed, with minimal sensation in the treated eye.
Surface Layer Removal
- The next step involves gently removing the thin, outermost layer of the cornea known as the epithelium.
- This is done using a special instrument, brush, or alcohol solution. The removal of this layer exposes the underlying corneal tissue, which is then ready to be reshaped by the laser.
- The epithelium naturally grows back over the course of several days after surgery.
Laser Reshaping
- Once the surface is prepared, an exact excimer laser is used to reshape the cornea.
- The laser emits cool ultraviolet light pulses that remove microscopic amounts of corneal tissue, correcting refractive errors such as nearsightedness, farsightedness, or astigmatism.
- The process is computer-guided and lasts only a few seconds to minutes, depending on the level of correction needed.
Protective Lens Placement
- After the corneal reshaping is complete, a soft contact lens is placed over the eye. This "bandage lens" protects the treated surface, reduces discomfort, and helps the epithelium heal smoothly.
- The lens usually remains in place for several days and is removed during a follow-up visit once healing has progressed.
Recovery Room
- Following the procedure, patients are moved to a recovery area where they rest briefly while the medical team monitors their comfort and vision.
- Since PRK is an outpatient surgery, patients can usually return home the same day.
- However, they will need someone to drive them due to temporary blurriness and light sensitivity.
Who Performs the PRK Surgery Procedure?
Medical Professionals: PRK surgery is performed by:
What to Expect After PRK Surgery?
Recovery after Photorefractive Keratectomy (PRK) takes longer compared to LASIK, but the long-term visual results are equally successful.
Understanding the recovery timeline helps in managing expectations and ensuring the best possible outcome.
First Few Days After Surgery
- In the initial days, it is common to notice blurry or hazy vision, along with eye discomfort, mild pain, or a burning sensation. Many patients also experience a heightened sensitivity to light.
- During this phase, doctors usually prescribe lubricating and medicated eye drops to reduce irritation and prevent infection.
- A protective bandage contact lens is also placed on the eye to shield the healing cornea. Wearing sunglasses both indoors and outdoors can help minimise discomfort caused by light sensitivity.
Weeks 2-4 of Recovery
- By the second to fourth week, vision begins to gradually improve as the surface layer of the cornea continues to regenerate.
- The bandage contact lens is usually removed once the epithelium has healed sufficiently.
- Although vision may still fluctuate during this period, patients start noticing clearer sight for daily activities.
- It is still important to avoid eye rubbing, strenuous exercise, or exposure to dust and smoke, as these can slow down recovery.
Weeks 5-6 After Surgery
- Around the fifth or sixth week, most patients are able to return to their normal routines, including work and moderate physical activities.
- Vision becomes more stable, though occasional dryness or glare, especially at night, may still be noticeable. Continued use of lubricating eye drops ensures the eyes remain comfortable and hydrated during this stage.
Three to Six Months
- Between three to six months after PRK, the cornea completes its healing process, and final vision stabilisation occurs.
- At this point, patients usually achieve sharper and clearer eyesight, comparable to LASIK outcomes.
- Any temporary side effects, such as glare or halos, typically diminish with time.
- Regular follow-up visits with the ophthalmologist are crucial to monitor progress and confirm that healing is on track.
Doctor's Tip:
"Avoid rubbing your eyes after PRK. Use eye drops regularly as advised to prevent dryness and speed up healing."
Benefits of PRK Eye Surgery
Photorefractive Keratectomy (PRK) provides many vision-related advantages that make it a preferred option for certain patients:
Effective correction of vision problems
- PRK can successfully correct nearsightedness (myopia), farsightedness (hyperopia), and astigmatism.
- By reshaping the cornea with a laser, it helps light focus properly on the retina, resulting in clearer and sharper vision without heavy reliance on glasses or contact lenses.
No risk of corneal flap complications
- Unlike LASIK, PRK does not involve creating a corneal flap. This eliminates the possibility of flap-related issues, such as dislocation or incomplete healing.
- Making it a safer choice for individuals engaged in contact sports or jobs that carry a higher risk of eye injury.
Safer for thin or irregular corneas
- Patients who are not good candidates for LASIK due to thin corneas or irregular corneal surfaces may still qualify for PRK.
- The procedure removes only the surface layer (epithelium) and reshapes the cornea without weakening it significantly.
Stable and long-lasting vision results
- Once the eyes heal fully, the improvements achieved through PRK are generally permanent.
- Patients can enjoy stable vision for years, with minimal risk of regression, as long as they maintain healthy eyes and natural age-related changes are considered.
Risks of PRK Surgery
Although PRK is considered safe, it does carry certain risks and potential side effects that patients should understand:
Temporary blurry vision and dryness
- During the initial healing phase, it is common to experience blurred vision and a sensation of dryness in the eyes.
- These symptoms usually improve as the epithelium regenerates over several days to weeks.
Eye discomfort during recovery
- Because the surface layer of the cornea needs time to regrow, patients may experience mild to moderate discomfort, irritation, or a gritty feeling in the eyes for the first few days after surgery.
- Medications and protective lenses are often used to reduce these symptoms.
Risk of infection or delayed healing
- Although rare, infections can occur if proper post-operative care is not followed.
- In some cases, healing may take longer than expected, requiring closer monitoring by the eye surgeon to prevent complications.
Night glare or halos in some patients
- A small number of patients may notice glare, halos, or starbursts around lights, especially at night.
- These visual effects usually decrease over time, but in rare cases, they may persist and require further treatment or adaptation.
PRK Eye Surgery Cost in India
The price of PRK laser eye surgery in India can vary, as no two eyes or treatment plans are the same. Factors like the technology used, the surgeon's experience, and the level of aftercare all play a role in deciding the final cost.
On average, patients invest between Rs. 35,000 and Rs. 75,000 per eye for PRK surgery. Think of it not just as a cost, but as a lifetime investment in clearer vision, freedom from glasses, and everyday comfort.
040 68334455
WhatsApp
Patient Portal
Home Care
