PRK Standard
The first method of laser vision correction. We remove the corneal epithelium and reshape the surface of the cornea
What is the PRK Standard and what does it consist of?
PRK (Photorefractive Keratectomy) is the oldest and proven method of surface laser vision correction. As in EBK, it involves removing the epithelium (the superficial layer of the cornea) and reshaping the corneal tissue with an excimer laser.
Who is the PRK procedure for?
The PRK method is used in patients for whom a flap-based procedure (LASIK/FemtoLASIK) is indicated:
- with thin corneas , or where deeper methods cannot be safely performed,
- patients who accept a longer healing period in exchange for maximum corneal biomechanical safety and no flap.
Using the PRK method, we correct*:
- short-sightedness: -0.25 to -6.0 D
- mild hyperopia
- astigmatism up to 1.0 D
*Indicative range only. The consultation and method choice are determined by your doctor after examination. The final range is based on corneal thickness and geometry, pupil diameter, tear film quality, topography/tomography findings and fundus examination.
Advantages of the PRK method
Maximum safety
no corneal flap risk. Ideal for athletes and people with active lifestyles
Stable results
Very stable long-term vision correction results, confirmed in clinical studies
The most established method
The longest-running and safest method of laser vision correction
See how the procedure works
Step 1: Preparation
The eye is numbed with anaesthetic drops. You lie down under the laser. A gentle eyelid speculum keeps your eye open throughout the procedure and a soft suction device stabilises the eye.
Step 2: Epithelium removal
The surgeon gently removes the thin corneal epithelium, approximately 50 micrometres thick. In PRK, this is done mechanically. The epithelium will regenerate naturally within a few days.
Step 3: Laser reshaping
The excimer laser precisely contours the exposed corneal surface to correct the refractive error. The eye-tracking system tracks eye movements and adjusts the laser position in real time for maximum precision.
Step 4: Protective contact lens
A therapeutic contact lens is placed on the eye to protect the cornea during healing and reduce discomfort. The lens remains in place for 3–5 days, until the epithelium regenerates.
Recuperation after PRK
Day of procedure
A therapeutic contact lens is applied. Once the anaesthetic has worn off, you may experience discomfort, tearing and a burning sensation — this is a normal part of healing. You may take painkillers and rest in a darkened room.
First follow-up visit
The corneal epithelium is regenerating. At your follow-up visit, your doctor removes the therapeutic contact lens. Discomfort decreases significantly. Vision slowly improves but may still be blurred.
Back to work
Your vision improves significantly and you can return to work. You may notice slight irregularities in vision that gradually settle. Continue to avoid eye make-up and swimming pools.
One-month follow-up
Your vision should be stable and sharp. You can return to all activities, including high-intensity sport, swimming and contact sports. Full stabilisation within 2–3 months.
Limitations and possible symptoms
Which rules out the procedure:
- Unstable topography/risk of ectasia (PRK does not „replace” healthy biomechanics)
- Significant scarring or dystrophy and abnormalities in corneal topography, cornea too thin
- Active inflammation, severe dryness (treat this first)
- Pregnancy/breastfeeding, unstable refraction
- Uncompensated systemic conditions (diabetes, autoimmune disease)
- A tendency to scarring (higher risk of corneal haze)
What you may experience afterwards:
- Pain, watery eyes, sensitivity to light for 2–4 days, blurred vision
- Slower improvement in acuity (weeks), fluctuating vision
- Dry eye, transient induced astigmatism, night vision disturbances
- Risk of corneal haze (monitored and managed at follow-up visits), delayed epithelial healing
- Rare: sterile infiltration or infection
CONTACT
Ready for PRK?
Book an assessment and find out if PRK is right for you.
FAQ
We will answer all your questions
The PRK and EBK methods - how do they differ?
Both are surface (no-flap) methods: the excimer laser reshapes the cornea after the epithelium is removed, and a therapeutic contact lens is placed for a few days. The difference lies in how the surface is prepared — in PRK the epithelium is removed mechanically, while in EBK it is gently lifted with a disposable instrument, which typically provides a smoother surface for ablation. The first 1–3 days can be uncomfortable with both methods, but EBK tends to feel more comfortable and the epithelium often heals a little faster. The final result is comparable and transient corneal haze can occur with both. The choice of method is decided at your consultation, based on measurements of your cornea and your medical history.
How soon will I return to normal life after PRK?
The corneal epithelium regenerates within 3–5 days, at which point your doctor removes the therapeutic contact lens. Visual acuity improves gradually — full stabilisation occurs within 2–3 months. Most patients can return to work after 5–7 days.
Does PRK hurt?
The procedure itself is painless thanks to topical anaesthesia (anaesthetic eye drops). Afterwards, you may experience discomfort for 2–3 days — burning, tearing and light sensitivity (photophobia). This is a normal part of the healing process. A therapeutic contact lens will be placed on your eye. If you are in pain, you may take over-the-counter painkillers.
What is PRK?
PRK (Photorefractive Keratectomy) is a surface laser correction method in which the corneal epithelium is removed and the corneal surface is directly reshaped with an excimer laser. Unlike LASIK, no flap is created — making PRK a suitable option for patients with thin corneas.