PRK and LASEK Eye Surgery

PRK FAQs

How long does PRK last?

The effects of PRK are generally considered permanent, and it's important to note that as we age, our eyes can change, and vision can gradually worsen. Therefore, while PRK can provide long-lasting correction, it doesn't prevent age-related eye changes that may require glasses or contacts later in life.

How to speed up PRK recovery?

Recovery after PRK surgery can take several days to a few weeks. While the recovery period cannot be avoided entirely, some steps can be taken to help speed up the healing process.

• Following your doctor's post-operative instructions is crucial, including using any prescribed eye drops, avoiding rubbing your eyes, and protecting them from bright light and dust.
• Rest and avoid strenuous activities such as exercising, swimming, and heavy lifting.
• Use lubricating eye drops as your doctor directs to keep your eyes moist and comfortable.
• Wear protective eyewear such as sunglasses or goggles outdoors to protect your eyes from dust, wind, and other environmental factors.
• A diet rich in antioxidants and omega-3 fatty acids can help promote healing and reduce inflammation.
• Avoid smoking and alcohol consumption which can slow healing and increase the risk of complications.

How long after PRK can I watch TV?

It's important to avoid activities that could strain your eyes, including watching TV or using a computer, for the first few days after surgery.

Your doctor will provide specific instructions on when it's safe to resume normal activities, including watching TV. Most people can resume watching TV and using a computer within a few days to a week after surgery

Is PRK better than LASIK?

Both procedures effectively treat common vision problems such as nearsightedness, farsightedness, and astigmatism, but they differ in how the surgery is performed and the recovery process.

Ultimately, choosing between PRK and LASIK should be made in consultation with our experienced eye surgeon, who will evaluate your needs and recommend ‌the benefits of PRK, LASEK, or LASIK. 

How long does PRK surgery take?

The actual PRK surgery typically takes only less than 15 minutes per eye. However, the process may take several hours, including pre-operative preparations and post-operative follow-up appointments.

Can you get PRK twice?

Technically, you could, though it is infrequent at Assil Gaur Eye Institute. Sometimes a new patient comes to us after an unsuccessful initial PRK surgery elsewhere that did not fully correct the refractive error, or the patient's vision may have changed over time, thus requiring revision surgery.

It's important to note that undergoing a second PRK surgery can be more challenging than the first, as the cornea may be thinner and more fragile due to the previous surgery. Additionally, there may be an increased risk of complications such as haze and cornea clouding that can affect vision.

Does PRK hurt?

During the PRK surgery, the patient typically does not experience any pain or discomfort. This is because the LASIK surgeon will use numbing drops, and the patient may also be given a mild sedative to help them relax. The patient may experience pressure on the eye's surface, but most report no discomfort.

After the surgery, however, it is common to experience some discomfort or mild to moderate pain. 

The discomfort experienced after PRK can vary from person to person and typically lasts a few days to a week. Pain relievers and lubricating eye drops can help manage discomfort during this time.

Does PRK fix astigmatism?

Yes, PRK surgery can effectively treat astigmatism, a standard refractive error that causes blurred or distorted vision at all distances. It's important to note that while PRK can be an effective treatment for astigmatism, it is not a guarantee of perfect vision. Some patients may need to wear glasses or contact lenses after surgery, particularly for reading or other close-up work.

How long does blurry vision last after PRK?

Blurry vision is a common side effect after PRK, and its duration can vary depending on several factors.

Generally, blurry vision can take several days to weeks to improve after PRK. During the first few days after surgery, vision may be blurry, and daily activities such as driving or reading can be challenging. The blurry vision typically improves as the eye heals, but it may fluctuate for several weeks or months after surgery.

Can you get LASIK after PRK?

Yes, getting LASIK after PRK is possible. One factor to consider is the amount of corneal tissue removed during the PRK procedure. LASIK involves creating a flap in the cornea to access the underlying tissue. If too much tissue was removed during the PRK procedure, there might not be enough corneal tissue to create the flap for LASIK safely. Additionally, the shape of the cornea after PRK may not be suitable for LASIK, and other vision correction options may be recommended.

Another factor to consider is the time since the PRK procedure. Waiting at least six months to a year after PRK before undergoing LASIK is recommended to allow the cornea to heal fully and stabilize.

Can you get PRK with astigmatism?

PRK may be a good option for individuals with mild to moderate astigmatism. In some cases, other types of refractive surgeries, such as LASIK, may be recommended, depending on the severity and type of astigmatism and other factors such as age, prescription, and overall eye health.

Does PRK correct nearsightedness and farsightedness?

Yes, PRK (Photorefractive Keratectomy) is an effective procedure for correcting both nearsightedness (myopia) and farsightedness (hyperopia).

Can you wear contacts after PRK?

During the initial healing period after PRK, the eyes may be more sensitive and drier, and wearing contact lenses can exacerbate these symptoms. Additionally, contact lenses can interfere with the healing process and affect the final visual outcome.

Once your eye doctor determines that your eyes have healed sufficiently and it's safe, they may recommend a specific type of contact lens or a contact lens wearing a schedule appropriate for your needs.

Does PRK cause dry eyes?

PRK can cause dry eyes in some individuals, particularly during the initial healing period after surgery. The procedure can temporarily affect the corneal nerves and reduce tear production, leading to dry eye symptoms.

The symptoms of dry eye after PRK are usually temporary and improve as the cornea heals. However, in some cases, dry eye symptoms may persist or worsen after surgery, and additional treatment may be necessary to manage the condition.

How long after PRK can I use a computer?

After PRK, it's generally safe to use a computer and other electronic devices once your vision has stabilized and you feel comfortable doing so. However, avoiding prolonged use of electronic devices during the initial healing period is essential, as this can put additional strain on your eyes and delay the healing process.

How long after PRK can I wear eye makeup?

After PRK, it's generally recommended to avoid wearing eye makeup for at least a week or until your surgeon gives you the green light to resume using it. Eye makeup can irritate the eyes if it gets in and increase the risk of infection during the initial healing period.

How soon can you exercise after PRK?

After PRK, it's generally recommended to avoid strenuous exercise and other physically demanding activities for at least a week. This is because physical activity can increase blood flow and pressure in the eyes, interfering with the healing process and increasing the risk of complications.

Can you have cataract surgery after PRK surgery?

Yes, it is possible to have cataract surgery after undergoing PRK.