PRK (Surface Laser)

PRK (photorefractive keratectomy) is a laser treatment for short-sight, long-sight and astigmatism. Instead of making a flap, the thin outer skin of the cornea (the epithelium) is gently removed, the laser reshapes the surface, and the epithelium grows back over a few days.

Adults with stable glasses power who may not be suited to LASIK — for example, people with thinner corneas — or whose work or sport carries a risk of eye injury. Suitability is decided after a full check-up.

A detailed pre-PRK evaluation — including a full refraction, corneal topography and tomography, corneal thickness measurement, assessment of the ocular surface and tear film, a pupil and retinal check, and a review of your medical history — helps decide whether PRK, LASIK or a phakic IOL is the better option for your eyes. On the day, the eye is numbed with drops, the thin outer layer of the cornea (the epithelium) is removed, and the laser reshapes the surface underneath; no corneal flap is made. A temporary bandage contact lens is then placed over the eye to protect it while the epithelium heals. The procedure is usually done as day surgery under topical anaesthesia, with no overnight stay.

Recovery takes longer than LASIK. Discomfort, watering, blurred vision and sensitivity to light are common for the first few days while the surface heals. Use the prescribed drops, avoid rubbing your eyes, and do not remove the bandage contact lens yourself — it is removed at a follow-up visit. Vision improves gradually over several days to weeks; follow your doctor's advice about swimming, eye make-up and dusty places.