PRK recovery is slower and more uncomfortable than LASIK in the first few days because the surface layer of the cornea needs time to regrow. Long‑term vision results, however, are usually similar.
First Few Days
The early period focuses on comfort and surface healing.
- Eyes often feel sore, gritty, watery, and light‑sensitive for 3-5 days, while a bandage contact lens protects the surface.
- Vision is typically blurred and may fluctuate significantly during this time.
- Pain relief, lubricants, and medicated drops are used regularly as prescribed.
- Resting with eyes closed and avoiding bright light can make this phase easier.
Weeks to Months
Vision improves gradually as the epithelium and cornea stabilise.
- Functional vision for everyday tasks usually returns within 1-2 weeks, with fine sharpness continuing to improve for several weeks more.
- Glare, halos, and dryness may persist for a while but generally lessen over time.
- Follow‑up visits check healing, refraction, and corneal clarity and guide tapering of topical steroids.
- Protective sunglasses and strict avoidance of eye rubbing support smooth recovery.
