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PRK is a type of refractive surgery that corrects myopia, hyperopia, and astigmatism. At Pristyn Care, we perform PRK eye surgery as required to help people get a clear vision.
PRK is a type of refractive surgery that corrects myopia, hyperopia, and astigmatism. ... Read More
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Photorefractive Keratectomy (PRK) is a medically recognized laser procedure used for the correction of common refractive errors like myopia, hypermetropia, and astigmatism. Laser surgery is an evolving field with PRK being one of the most tried and tested procedures. According to the American Academy of Ophthalmology, the procedure is extremely effective since more than 90% of patients achieve 20/40 vision or better after PRK surgery for their common refractive errors. The procedure is especially helpful in thin corneas or where professionals from a physical background favor flapless procedures.
PRK is a trusted procedure in refractive surgery in India, the United States, and many other countries. The procedure, benefits, and risks are described in the paragraphs to follow to help get a better understanding of this surgical therapy.
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PRK improves vision by reshaping the cornea so that light can focus more accurately on the retina. On removing the very outer layer of the cornea, a specialised laser is used to smooth and correct the curvature of the exposed surface. This will minimize aberrations that often lead to double, blurred, or strained vision.
The absence of a corneal flap in PRK lowers the chances of flap-related complications, making it a preferred choice for those with active lifestyles or professions involving physical impact. Although visual clarity may take longer to stabilize, clinical data from the American Academy of Ophthalmology shows that several patients eventually achieve 20/40 vision or better. These outcomes support the continued use of PRK as a dependable surgical option in both Indian and international settings.
Eye specialists recommend PRK mostly for people who cannot undergo LASIK due to any medical or social limitation. It is a solution for those who want to improve their vision without depending on glasses or contact lenses over the long term.
Several clinical factors are tested by doctors before determining eligibility, but typically, suitable candidates meet the following criteria:
PRK may be preferred for those whose daily activities pose a higher risk of eye injury, especially:
A person fulfilling both the medical and lifestyle-oriented criteria stands a better chance of gaining the benefit of PRK while having less risk for side effects.
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Before the PRK laser eye surgery procedure, patients are required to undergo a thorough eye examination to check corneal measurements, surface shape, and overall eye health. This step helps confirm that the patient’s eyes are suitable for the procedure and that the intended vision correction can be successfully achieved. An exhaustive review of medical history is also crucial, especially for ailments like diabetes or autoimmune conditions that may affect healing.
Certain preoperative steps are usually recommended:
Following these instructions ensures accurate surgical mapping, diminishes the chance of complications, and paves the way for appropriate recovery.
Some medical or ocular conditions greatly increase the chances of the risk of poor outcomes following PRK. Patients with unstable vision prescriptions, significant corneal abnormalities, or systemic health issues are generally advised against the procedure. A thorough consultation with an eye surgeon helps to determine if risks outweigh possible benefits.
People with health conditions like diabetes that are not under control, autoimmune diseases such as lupus or rheumatoid arthritis, or connective tissue problems may take longer to heal. PRK is also not advised during pregnancy or while breastfeeding, because vision can change due to hormonal shifts.
PRK is not a good choice for those who have severe dry eyes, active infections, scarring on the cornea, or an irregularly shaped cornea such as keratoconus. These problems can affect healing and may result in unclear or poor vision.
People who work in dusty, windy, or very active surroundings may face more challenges during healing. Since PRK removes the top layer of the eye, the surface is more exposed during recovery. Also, if someone’s glasses number keeps changing (more than 0.5 in one year), it is better to wait until it becomes stable.
During the PRK laser eye surgery procedure, a laser reshapes the corneal surface to correct refractive errors by removing a small portion of tissue beneath the surface layer. The procedure is carried out under local anesthesia, usually completed in less than twenty minutes for both eyes, with the patients then fitted with a therapeutic contact lens to aid healing.
PRK Laser surgery procedure:
Anesthetic application and eye stabilization
Numbing eye drops are applied to eliminate pain. A lid-holder device keeps the eyelids open, and a target light may guide steady fixation. Eye tracking technology keeps track of small eye movements and adjusts the laser to make sure it stays accurate.
Removal of corneal epithelium
The thin surface layer of the cornea is gently removed using a brush, blade, or diluted alcohol solution. Removing this epithelium exposes the stromal layer beneath for laser treatment.
Laser ablation of the cornea
The excimer laser reshapes the cornea, the site being carefully mapped out and measured before treatment; the laser pulse is activated for about 30-60 seconds in each eye, depending on the amount of correction needed.
Placement of a bandage contact lens
A soft, oxygen-permeable contact lens is placed immediately after the laser step. This acts as a protective bandage while the epithelium regenerates over several days.
Postoperative medication and care
Antibiotic and anti‑inflammatory eye drops are prescribed to reduce the risk of infection and control inflammation. Analgesic eye drops or oral pain relief may be used for discomfort in the first few days.
Follow-up assessments and lens removal
The first follow-up appointment usually occurs within three to five days. The bandage contact lens is removed once sufficient epithelial healing is confirmed. Subsequent follow‑ups monitor vision progress and corneal clarity.
Recovery and vision stabilization
Vision typically remains hazy for several days before clarity begins to improve. Full visual outcomes are often achieved within six weeks to several months, as the cornea fully heals and rescales light refraction.
This comparison clearly outlines the process, the associated risks, the effectiveness, and the cost involved in PRK, Femto LASIK, and Contoura Vision, facilitating a more informed choice.
| Feature | PRK (Photorefractive Keratectomy) | Femto LASIK (Femtosecond LASIK) | Contoura Vision |
| Procedure Type | Surface-based; no flap created | Bladeless; uses a femtosecond laser to create a corneal flap | Topography-guided LASIK customizes treatment using corneal mapping |
| Technology Used | Excimer laser only | Femtosecond + excimer lasers | Advanced excimer laser with corneal topography |
| Flap Involvement | No flap; epithelium removed | Flap created using a femtosecond laser | Flap created, then customized ablation |
| Ideal Candidates | Patients with thin corneas or active lifestyles | Most refractive error cases with suitable corneal thickness | Irregular corneal surfaces, higher-order aberrations |
| Healing Time | 5–7 days for surface healing; vision stabilizes in 1–2 weeks | Rapid recovery; functional vision returns within 24–48 hours | Similar to Femto LASIK, there is a slight edge in clarity after healing |
| Pain/Discomfort | Mild to moderate during early recovery | Minimal due to flap and faster healing | Minimal; slightly better comfort profile |
| Visual Outcome | Good vision; may take longer to stabilize | High precision and stable results | Superior visual clarity and sharpness in eligible eyes |
| Complications | Risk of haze, delayed healing, and temporary discomfort | Flap-related issues, dry eyes | Lower incidence of night vision problems and halos |
| Cost Range (India) | Most affordable vision correction option | Moderate to higher than PRK; varies by clinic | The highest cost tier, because of advanced mapping and precision |
| Availability | Widely available in most eye centers | Common in advanced refractive clinics | Limited to select centers with topography-guided systems |
| Custom Treatment | Standard correction based on prescription | Some customization possible | Fully customized based on corneal topography |
| FDA Approval | Approved | Approved | Approved for eligible patients |
| Long-Term Results | Effective with stable outcomes | Proven track record of long-term success | Offers enhanced clarity and contrast for eligible cases |
Photorefractive Keratectomy (PRK) has remained a trusted option for correcting refractive errors since its approval. Unlike LASIK, PRK avoids flap-related complications, making it a preferred choice for individuals with thinner corneas or certain occupational needs. This technique reshapes the corneal surface directly after removing the outer epithelial layer, which naturally regrows over time.
PRK Laser eye surgery benefits:
PRK laser surgery is a trusted method for vision correction. Nevertheless, awareness of possible postoperative complications supports realistic expectations and informed decisions. While serious risks are infrequent, several side effects may appear during recovery or beyond.
PRK Laser eye surgery risks:
Discomfort and sensitivity during healing
Many patients encounter mild to moderate irritation, gritty sensations, tearing, and heightened light sensitivity in the days following treatment. This typically resolves within a week as the surface layer regenerates
Dry eye syndrome
Temporary dry eye is common due to nerve disruption in the cornea. Symptoms may persist for several months and, in rare cases, become chronic. Use of lubricating drops and supplements can help manage this. A retrospective study of 25,317 PRK or LASIK eyes reported a 6% overall risk of postoperative dry eye.
Corneal haze or scarring
Cloudiness in the corneal healing zone may occur, impacting clarity. One large single‑center study (2017) showed a 1.3% incidence of clinically significant haze. Most cases resolve within months; advanced cases may need medication or PTK (phototherapeutic keratectomy).
Undercorrection or overcorrection
Results may differ slightly from expectations, leading to residual vision errors. Retreatments or enhancements are possible after healing completes; they are needed in about 6.8% of cases only.
Visual disturbances
Glare, halos, starbursts, or fluctuating vision often appear during early healing. These symptoms usually diminish within a few months, but may linger in some cases.
Infection risk
Although uncommon, infection may develop in the immediate postoperative period. Careful use of antibiotic eye drops and proper hygiene are essential to prevent this complication. Very rare (< 0.1%).
Reduced best-corrected visual acuity
A small percentage (1–3%) may experience a decline in maximum achievable vision due to ablation or healing irregularities. Advances in laser tracking have lowered this risk.
These risks are at times rarely seen and are generally under control. Closely following up with the eye specialist and following all aftercare instructions allows safe recovery and better outcomes.
Below is a brief comparison of the standard prices for PRK surgical procedures in India and some countries abroad:
| Region / Country | Typical Cost per Eye | Estimated Cost for Both Eyes(INR) |
| India (major cities) | ₹35,000 – ₹60,000 | ₹70,000 – ₹120,000 |
| Turkey | USD 1,000 – ₹2,000* | ₹1,74,000 – ₹3,48,000 |
| Mexico | USD 1,440 – 2,100 | ₹2,50,560 – ₹3,65,400 |
| Thailand | USD 2,900 – 5,200 | ₹5,04,600 – ₹9,04,800 |
| Czech Republic | USD 540 – 1,035 | ₹93,960 – ₹1,80,090 |
| USA / UK | USD 2,500 – 4,000 | ₹4,35,000 – ₹6,96,000 |
*Conversion rate used: 1 USD ≈ ₹87 (as of July 30, 2025, based on average mid-market rates). Rates are subject to change.
Overall, India offers among the most economical options globally, with quality care and certification across leading centers. International pricing includes package deals often covering diagnostics, lenses, follow‑up visits, and sometimes accommodation. Procedures in Turkey, Mexico, and Thailand offer cost savings of up to 70 percent compared to North American or British rates
Prices are not standardized and depend heavily on the clinic’s reputation, the surgeon’s experience, and the laser technology used. Always request a full breakdown of what’s included.
PRK Laser surgery procedure offers vision correction without the creation of a corneal flap, which would be more suitable for certain corneal profiles or lifestyle considerations. Recovery is prolonged compared with LASIK, whereas, for most cases, long-term results are steady and favorable. Price-wise, much depends on the region, with India featuring prices probably among the very cheapest. Consultation with a qualified ophthalmologist determines suitability, anticipates potential complications, and selects the appropriate approach for lasting visual improvement.
Every factor should be evaluated before proceeding with PRK Laser surgery, as multiple factors influence visual outcomes, including corneal health, age, and adherence to post-op care. Patients should consult an experienced ophthalmologist for better outcomes. For a detailed consultation, reach out to the specialists at Pristyn Care.
Visual outcomes tend to be more predictable in younger adults with stable prescriptions. While PRK is effective across age groups, older individuals may require reading glasses post-surgery due to natural lens aging, known as presbyopia.
It is performed under topical anesthesia using numbing eye drops. No injections or general anesthesia are involved. This approach ensures a painless procedure while keeping the patient awake and able to follow fixation cues.
In select patients, it may be used to fine-tune vision after cataract surgery or other refractive procedures. Suitability will depend on corneal health, residual refractive error, and stability of prior surgical results.
Custom PRK planning is based on data obtained from corneal topography, pachymetry, and wavefront mapping to aim the laser pattern. These measurements allow for more precise corrections based on the individual anatomy of the eye and visual aberrations.
Once the cornea is fully healed, there are no permanent restrictions. Long-term safety has been clearly demonstrated in sports, travel, and jobs. However, protective eyewear remains advisable in high-impact environments.
Eye specialists use slit-lamp examination and corneal imaging to detect early signs of haze. Mild cases resolve naturally, while persistent haze may be managed with medicated drops or, in rare cases, laser polishing techniques.
Another type of flapless refractive surgery is SMILE (Small Incision Lenticule Extraction). While both processes maintain corneal strength, SMILE avoids disrupting the surface even more. PRK, however, fits surface-level corrections better and, in some anatomical setups, is much preferred.
PRK is classified as an optional surgery and is typically not covered by standard health insurance in most regions. However, certain countries or private policies may offer partial reimbursement if the surgery is deemed medically necessary due to severe visual limitations.
Depending on corneal thickness, the inflammatory response of each individual, and their own awareness toward postoperative care, the recovery time may vary. Some patients experience quicker visual stability if the tear film quality and epithelial regeneration are optimal.
Most individuals maintain satisfactory vision after PRK for many years. However, changes in the eye’s natural lens or retina over time may still affect vision clarity. Regular check-ups help monitor long-term outcomes and detect unrelated ocular conditions early.
Rohini, 28 Yrs
Recommends
Excellent experience
Dharmendra Mahankud, 27 Yrs
Recommends
Super
Devashish Lalwani
Recommends
Living with glasses was a hassle, and I finally decided to go for PRK LASIK at Pristyn Care. Their caring staff and top-notch facilities made the process smooth. Post-surgery, my vision improved dramatically. I'm grateful for this life-changing experience
Vikalp Khatri
Recommends
Choosing Pristyn Care for my PRK LASIK surgery was a game-changer. Their team's dedication and expertise were evident throughout. The surgery itself was comfortable, and my vision started improving almost immediately. Pristyn Care made my dream of clear vision come true!
Mahima Sen
Recommends
Pristyn Care has been a blessing in my journey to better vision! The decision to undergo PRK surgery was life-changing, and I'm glad I chose Pristyn Care for the procedure. The entire experience was smooth and comfortable. The team was supportive, explaining every step along the way. The PRK surgery itself was surprisingly fast, and the recovery process was manageable. Within a short time, I noticed a significant improvement in my vision. It feels amazing to wake up and see clearly without glasses. I highly recommend Pristyn Care for their expertise, personalized approach, and for making my vision dreams come true!
Shanta Munda
Recommends
I can't stop smiling after my PRK surgery at Pristyn Care! The decision to undergo the procedure was daunting, but from the moment I walked into their clinic, I felt reassured. The staff was warm and supportive, and the surgeon's confidence in their skills put me at ease. The PRK surgery itself was a breeze - no pain, just a little discomfort, and quick recovery. The results are outstanding! My vision has drastically improved, and I'm enjoying a new level of freedom. I'm incredibly thankful to Pristyn Care for their personalized care and for helping me see the world in a whole new light!
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