PRK FAQs for OKC Patients

Is PRK better than LASIK?

PRK and LASIK are both highly effective laser vision correction procedures, but one may be a better fit depending on your individual needs. PRK is often recommended for patients with thinner corneas, chronic dry eyes, or certain lifestyle factors that might make LASIK less ideal. While PRK has a longer initial recovery time compared to LASIK, it offers equally excellent long-term vision outcomes. During your consultation, we’ll help you determine which procedure is the best match for your eyes and your goals.

How long does PRK last?

PRK provides permanent vision correction by reshaping the cornea. Once your eyes have healed, the results are long-lasting. However, it’s important to remember that natural changes to the eyes, like presbyopia (age-related near vision loss), can still occur over time, just as they would without surgery. Many PRK patients enjoy years—even decades—of clearer, sharper vision without glasses or contacts.

How painful is the procedure?

During PRK surgery, your eyes are numbed with special drops so you won’t feel pain during the procedure itself. Some discomfort typically begins a few hours afterward as the surface of the eye starts to heal. Most patients describe the sensation as mild to moderate burning, grittiness, or light sensitivity over the first few days. We’ll provide you with medications, lubricating drops, and detailed care instructions to keep you as comfortable as possible throughout your recovery.

When can I drive after PRK surgery?

Most patients can resume driving about 5 to 7 days after PRK, once the surface of the eye has had time to heal and vision is clear enough to meet legal driving standards. Your surgeon will monitor your progress closely and let you know when it’s safe to get back behind the wheel. Until then, it’s important to arrange transportation and take it easy while your vision stabilizes.

PRK FAQs for Norman Patients

Is PRK more successful than LASIK?

Both PRK and LASIK have extremely high success rates and offer excellent long-term vision correction. In terms of outcomes, they are very comparable—most patients achieve 20/20 vision or better with either procedure. The main differences are in the recovery experience and candidacy requirements. For some patients, especially those with thinner corneas or specific eye health concerns, PRK may actually be the safer and more appropriate choice.

What are the disadvantages of PRK surgery?

The main disadvantage of PRK compared to LASIK is the longer recovery time. Since PRK reshapes the surface of the eye, it takes several days to a week for the outer layer to heal, during which time you may experience discomfort, blurry vision, and light sensitivity. Full visual recovery can take several weeks. However, the long-term results are just as impressive as LASIK once healing is complete, and PRK may offer added benefits for patients with certain eye conditions.

Can you get 20/20 vision with PRK?

Yes, many PRK patients achieve 20/20 vision or even better once healing is complete. Your results will depend on several factors, including your original prescription and overall eye health, which we will thoroughly evaluate during your consultation.

What is the failure rate of PRK?

PRK has a very low failure rate. Serious complications are rare, and most patients are highly satisfied with their results. While no surgery is completely risk-free, advances in laser technology and surgical techniques have made PRK safer and more effective than ever. Careful patient screening, experienced surgeons, and detailed aftercare all help ensure PRK’s exceptional outcomes.

PRK FAQs for Moore Patients

What disqualifies me from PRK?

Certain factors may disqualify you from PRK, including very thin or irregular corneas, active eye infections or diseases, uncontrolled diabetes, or autoimmune conditions that could interfere with healing. Pregnancy and nursing can also temporarily make you ineligible. During your consultation, we’ll perform a thorough evaluation to ensure PRK—or another vision correction option—is safe and effective for you.

How long are you blind after PRK surgery?

You’re not truly “blind” after PRK, but your vision will be blurry and hazy for several days as the surface of your eye heals. Most patients notice meaningful improvements within about a week, with gradual sharpening over the following weeks. It’s important to give your eyes time to heal naturally, and we’ll monitor your progress closely during your recovery.

How painful is PRK recovery?

PRK recovery can involve mild to moderate discomfort, especially in the first few days after surgery. You may experience burning, stinging, or a gritty feeling as the surface cells regenerate. We provide medicated drops, pain relievers, and detailed instructions to keep you as comfortable as possible during this short healing period. Most patients find that the discomfort noticeably improves after the first 3 to 5 days.

Can you look on your phone after PRK?

You should limit screen use, including phones, computers, and TVs, for at least the first few days after PRK to reduce eye strain and support healing. Short, gentle use may be allowed after the first 3 to 5 days, but take frequent breaks and follow your surgeon’s personalized guidelines. Protecting your eyes early on can make a big difference in achieving the best long-term results.