How safe is PRK surgery?

When you’re thinking about vision correction, safety is always the first question. PRK (photorefractive keratectomy) has been around since the 1980s and is trusted worldwide, but how safe is it really?

The short answer: PRK is very safe for most people when performed by an experienced surgeon. Let’s look at why.

How PRK works

PRK uses a laser to gently reshape the cornea to correct nearsightedness, farsightedness, and astigmatism. It’s different from LASIK because it doesn’t involve a corneal flap. Instead, the outermost layer of cells is removed and then grows back as you heal.

Safety track record

PRK has decades of proven success:

• Millions of procedures worldwide
• FDA-approved for over 30 years
• High patient satisfaction and success rates

Common side effects

Like any procedure, PRK has some temporary side effects, including:

• Blurry vision for a few days
• Light sensitivity
• Mild discomfort while the eye heals

These usually improve within a week or two. Vision continues to sharpen over the following weeks.

Rare risks

Serious complications are rare but possible, including:

• Infection
• Haze on the cornea
• Over- or under-correction

Most can be managed with medication or follow-up care.

Why PRK may be safer for some patients

For people with thin corneas, dry eye, or higher-risk lifestyles, PRK can sometimes be safer than LASIK because there’s no flap that could shift or be injured.

How to stay safe

Your safety starts with a thorough exam. At Elite LASIK & Cataract, we:

• Map your eyes with advanced imaging
• Check for conditions like keratoconus or dry eye
• Review your full eye health and medical history

Recovery tips

• Use prescribed drops as directed
• Wear sunglasses outdoors
• Avoid rubbing your eyes
• Follow your post-op visits closely

Healing usually takes longer than LASIK, but the results are just as clear and lasting.

Bottom line

PRK is a safe, effective choice for many patients. The key is proper screening, a skilled surgeon, and good aftercare.

Curious about PRK? Start with our quick suitability self-test to see if you’re a candidate.