How does PRK eye surgery work​?

What is PRK surgery?

PRK stands for photorefractive keratectomy. It is a type of laser eye surgery used to improve vision.

The treatment works by reshaping the cornea. The cornea is the clear front part of the eye.

When the cornea is shaped well, light can focus better. This helps you see more clearly.

PRK can treat short sight, long sight, and astigmatism.

It was one of the first types of laser vision correction and is still used around the world today.

How does the eye focus light?

The eye works a bit like a camera.

Light enters through the cornea and lens.

These parts help focus light onto the retina at the back of the eye.

If the shape of the cornea is not correct, light does not focus properly. This can make vision blurry.

PRK works by changing the shape of the cornea so light focuses more clearly.

How does PRK work?

During PRK surgery, a laser gently reshapes the surface of the cornea.

First, the outer layer of the cornea is removed.

This thin layer is called the epithelium.

The treatment is very precise and is designed for each patient’s eyes.

The laser then treats the layer underneath.

After the laser treatment, the surface layer grows back naturally during healing.

The role of the laser

The laser removes tiny amounts of tissue from the cornea.

This changes the way light enters the eye.

The amount of tissue removed depends on the patient’s prescription.

The laser works very quickly and with high precision.

How long does the procedure take?

La PRK est généralement rapide.

Le traitement laser dure souvent moins d’une minute par œil.

Le rendez-vous complet est plus long pour préparer les yeux avant l’opération.

Les patients rentrent chez eux le jour même.

What happens before the surgery?

PRK surgery is usually quick.

The laser treatment itself often takes less than a minute per eye.

The full appointment may take longer because the eyes need to be prepared before treatment. Most patients go home the same day.

What happens before surgery?

Before PRK, patients need a full eye examination.

The doctor checks vision, corneal thickness, and overall eye health. These tests help decide if PRK is suitable.

Patients can also ask questions and learn what to expect during recovery.

Preparing for surgery

Patients may be asked to stop wearing contact lenses before the appointment.

This helps the cornea return to its natural shape.

On the day of surgery, numbing eye drops are used to help keep the patient comfortable.

During this time, vision may be blurry. The eyes may feel sensitive or dry.

What happens after PRK?

After surgery, the eye begins to heal.

A soft contact lens may be placed on the eye to protect it during recovery.

The eyes may feel watery or sensitive for a few days.

Vision can be blurry at first but usually improves over time.

Healing after PRK

The surface layer of the cornea needs time to grow back.

This is why recovery after PRK can take longer than some other laser treatments.

Many patients notice gradual improvement over several weeks.

The doctor monitors healing during follow-up visits.

Why do some patients choose PRK?

PRK may be suitable for people with thinner corneas.

Some people also choose PRK because it does not involve creating a flap in the cornea.

It can also be suitable for people with active lifestyles or contact sports.

Every patient is different, so a full assessment is important.

What are the benefits of PRK?

Many patients enjoy clearer vision after PRK.

The procedure may reduce the need for glasses or contact lenses.

Results can be long lasting for many people.

PRK has been used successfully for many years.

Understanding your options

Not every treatment suits every eye.

Some people may be more suitable for PRK, while others may benefit from different treatments.

An eye specialist can explain the options and recommend the most suitable treatment. Learning about the procedure can help patients feel more confident.

Take the first step

If you are thinking about TransPRK or another type of laser eye surgery, the first step is simple.

Take the Vision Laser suitability self test today. This quick online check can help you discover if PRK or another treatment may be right for you.