How Long Does PRK Surgery Take? Step-by-Step Timeline

How Long Does PRK Surgery Take in Total?

PRK surgery is a quick and efficient procedure, even though the overall healing process takes longer than LASIK. Understanding the time involved from preparation to immediate recovery can help patients plan their appointment and feel more comfortable with what to expect on surgery day.

Full timeline breakdown:

Surgery time: The actual PRK surgery is quick, typically taking 5–10 minutes per eye. During this time, the surgeon carefully removes the epithelium and reshapes the cornea with the excimer laser.

 

Laser time: The laser treatment itself is very fast, usually lasting only 20–60 seconds per eye. The precision of the laser allows the cornea to be reshaped accurately in just a few moments, which is essential for correcting refractive errors or astigmatism.

Preparation time: Before the procedure begins, patients spend 10–15 minutes preparing in the clinic. This includes numbing eye drops, verification of measurements, and ensuring proper positioning under the laser. Preparation ensures the procedure is safe, comfortable, and precise.

Immediate recovery after: After the procedure, patients typically rest for 10–20 minutes in the clinic while the initial healing begins and the protective bandage contact lens is placed. During this period, doctors monitor for any immediate reactions and provide post-operative care instructions.

Total time at clinic: From arrival to departure, the entire PRK visit usually takes 1–2 hours, depending on the number of eyes treated and individual patient needs. While the procedure itself is short, this total time accounts for preparation, surgery, and immediate recovery monitoring.

Although the procedure itself is completed in just 10–15 minutes per eye, patients should allow additional time for preparation and post-operative care at the clinic. This short, straightforward surgery combined with careful recovery makes PRK an effective and convenient option for correcting astigmatism.

Why PRK Surgery Is So Fast

PRK is surprisingly quick, and much of this speed comes from the technology used during the procedure. The excimer laser employed in PRK is highly precise, able to remove tiny amounts of corneal tissue with extreme accuracy in just seconds. For most patients, the actual laser treatment itself often takes less than a minute per eye, making the core part of the procedure incredibly efficient.

Two main factors contribute to the overall speed of PRK. First, the laser reshaping is remarkably fast, adjusting the corneal curvature precisely according to your prescription. Second, unlike LASIK, PRK doesn’t require the creation of a corneal flap. Skipping this step not only simplifies the procedure but also eliminates a phase that can take additional time and adds complexity.

Because of these factors, the total time you spend in the surgical chair is usually just a few minutes per eye. Most of the appointment is actually preparation and ensuring comfort, meaning the treatment itself is remarkably short and streamlined.

This efficiency makes PRK an attractive option for patients who want effective, long-lasting vision correction without a lengthy procedure. Knowing that the treatment is brief can also reduce anxiety, helping you feel more relaxed and confident before, during, and after surgery. Even with its speed, PRK delivers precise, predictable results that can last for decades, combining efficiency with long-term reliability.

What Happens on the Day of PRK Surgery? A Step-by-Step Timeline

The day of PRK surgery can feel daunting, but knowing what to expect at each step can help you feel calm and prepared. From pre-operative preparation to the procedure itself and immediate post-surgery care, understanding the timeline ensures a smoother experience and sets realistic expectations for your recovery.

Step 1 (Arrival at the Clinic): When you arrive at the clinic, the team will check you in and ensure you’re comfortable. Most clinics recommend arriving 30 minutes before your procedure. You may be asked to remove contact lenses, jewellery, or makeup if you haven’t done so already.

Step 2 (Final Eye Checks and Measurements): Even if you completed a full suitability assessment earlier, your surgeon will repeat key tests to confirm everything is consistent. This may include corneal thickness measurement, prescription confirmation, pupil size evaluation, and tear film assessment. These checks ensure that the laser settings are perfectly accurate for your eyes.

Step 3 (Numbing Eye Drops): Anaesthetic drops are placed into your eyes to numb the surface. They work quickly, so you won’t feel any pain during the procedure. You remain fully awake but extremely comfortable throughout the treatment.

Step 4 (Preparing the Treatment Area): You will be taken to the laser suite and positioned comfortably on the treatment bed. The team will clean your eyelids, apply a small device to keep your eyes gently open, and ask you to focus on a target light. This step is simple and painless, preparing you for the next stages of the procedure.

Step 5 (Removal of the Surface Layer): In PRK, the surgeon gently removes the thin surface layer of the cornea, called the epithelium. This exposes the area where the laser will reshape your vision. You do not feel this step due to the numbing drops. This is the main difference between PRK and LASIK.

Step 6 (Laser Reshaping): The excimer laser reshapes your cornea according to your prescription. During this stage, you look at a fixed or blinking light while the laser corrects your vision. You may hear clicking sounds, which are normal. The laser tracks eye movements automatically, and the reshaping typically takes 20–60 seconds per eye, completing the correction very quickly.

Step 7 (Rinsing and Placement of a Bandage Contact Lens): After laser treatment, the surgeon will apply a cool saline rinse to soothe the cornea. A soft bandage contact lens is then placed over your eye to protect the surface, reduce discomfort, and allow the epithelium to regenerate over 3–5 days.

Step 8 (Repeat for the Other Eye): If both eyes are being treated, the same procedure is repeated for the second eye. Some patients prefer to treat one eye at a time, but most have both done on the same day.

Step 9 (Immediate Post-Surgery Rest): After the procedure, you will rest in a calm recovery area for 10–20 minutes while the team checks your eyes. During this period, you’ll receive detailed post-operative instructions, have your bandage lenses checked, and be given prescribed eye drops. Sunglasses may be provided to reduce light sensitivity. You can go home afterward, provided someone accompanies you.

The Full PRK Surgery Treatment Timeline

Understanding the full timeline of a PRK procedure can help patients feel more prepared and at ease on surgery day. From arrival at the clinic to the completion of post-operative care, each step is carefully planned to ensure safety, comfort, and precision throughout the procedure.

Here’s a simple breakdown of what happens during your PRK procedure from start to finish:

• You arrive at the clinic and check in (0 minutes).
• Final assessments and confirmations are done, which usually take 10–20 minutes.
• Numbing drops are applied to your eyes, taking 1–2 minutes.
• The team prepares your eyes for treatment, which takes another 2–3 minutes.
• The epithelium (surface layer) is gently removed in about 10–20 seconds.
• The laser reshapes your cornea, typically 20–60 seconds per eye.
• A protective bandage contact lens is placed, taking 1–2 minutes.
• The same steps are repeated for the second eye, usually 5–10 minutes.
• After the procedure, you receive aftercare instructions and rest for 10–20 minutes.

Although the total time at the clinic typically ranges from 1–2 hours, the actual laser treatment for each eye takes only about a minute. This streamlined process, combined with careful pre- and post-operative care, makes PRK an efficient and well-structured option for vision correction.

How Long Does PRK Recovery Take Compared to Surgery Time?

Many patients are surprised by the contrast between the brief PRK procedure and the longer recovery period. While the surgery itself is quick and precise, taking only 10–15 minutes per eye, the cornea requires time to heal fully, which affects when vision stabilises. Understanding this difference helps patients set realistic expectations and plan for their post-operative care.

Surgery: The PRK procedure itself is relatively quick, typically taking 10–15 minutes per eye. This includes preparing the eye, removing the epithelium, and reshaping the cornea with the excimer laser. The laser treatment portion is very fast, usually less than a minute per eye, making the overall procedure efficient and precise.

Recovery: Full visual clarity after PRK usually takes 1–3 months as the cornea heals completely and the epithelium regenerates. However, most patients regain functional vision much sooner, often within the first few weeks, allowing them to resume daily activities while minor fluctuations continue to settle.

Although the PRK procedure is completed in minutes, full visual clarity typically takes 1–3 months as the epithelium regenerates and the cornea stabilises. Most patients regain functional vision within a few weeks, allowing daily activities to resume, while minor fluctuations gradually resolve. Awareness of the recovery timeline ensures patients can approach healing with patience and confidence, knowing the final results are long-lasting and reliable.

What Happens Immediately After PRK Surgery?

Right after PRK surgery, your eyes begin the initial healing process, which involves regrowth of the epithelium. It’s normal to experience temporary symptoms such as blurred vision, light sensitivity, watery eyes, and a slightly gritty feeling. Knowing what to expect can help you manage discomfort and protect your eyes during these first critical days.

The First 24 Hours: Immediately after PRK, most patients prefer to rest or nap. Vision will still be quite blurry, which is completely normal as the cornea begins the initial healing process. Light sensitivity and mild discomfort are common, so taking it easy during this period is essential.

Day 2 to Day 4: This period is usually the most uncomfortable stage of recovery. The clinic will provide prescribed drops and medications to help manage discomfort. Vision may fluctuate significantly during these days, and patients may notice blur or temporary ghosting as the cornea continues to regenerate.

Day 5: Most clinics remove the protective bandage lenses between day 3 and day 5. Once these lenses are removed, patients generally feel much more comfortable. Vision continues to improve, though clarity may still vary slightly as the surface layer of the cornea settles.

Week 1 to Week 2: During the first two weeks, vision becomes noticeably clearer, and light sensitivity begins to reduce. Most patients can resume everyday activities, though care is still needed. Swimming, heavy workouts, applying eye makeup, and rubbing the eyes should be avoided to protect the healing cornea.

Month 1: By the end of the first month, vision continues to stabilise, though some mild fluctuations may still occur, particularly in low-light or nighttime conditions. The cornea is healing steadily, and patients generally notice a significant improvement compared with the initial weeks.

Month 3: Most patients reach their final visual outcome around three months after PRK. At this stage, the cornea has fully healed, vision is stable, and the long-term success rate of the procedure becomes evident. Any remaining minor fluctuations are typically minimal and resolve naturally.

Why PRK Sometimes Takes Slightly Longer Than LASIK

You might wonder why PRK recovery tends to take longer than LASIK, even though the actual surgery is very quick. The reason lies in the way the procedure works on the cornea. Unlike LASIK, PRK removes the very thin surface layer of the cornea, called the epithelium, which then needs time to naturally regenerate.

This regeneration process is what creates a longer healing period. During the first few days after surgery, patients may experience mild discomfort, blurred vision, and light sensitivity as the epithelium grows back and the eye stabilises. While this requires patience, it does not affect the precision of the vision correction itself.

It’s important to note that the laser reshaping the part of the procedure that actually corrects your vision is identical to LASIK in both accuracy and effectiveness. PRK delivers the same high-quality visual outcomes; the difference is simply the surface-based healing process, which demands a slightly longer recovery period.

Ultimately, while PRK may require more initial downtime than LASIK, it offers advantages such as flap-free stability, suitability for thinner corneas, and reduced long-term risks, making the trade-off worthwhile for many patients.

How Long Will You Be at the Clinic on the Day of Surgery?

Most clinics recommend planning to be there for around 1–2 hours. Most clinics advise patients to plan for a total visit of around one to two hours on the day of their PRK surgery. This timeframe includes every part of the process, from the initial preparations to the short recovery period immediately after the procedure. When you arrive, you’ll first go through a brief check-in and a final review of your medical details. After that, the team will carry out pre-surgery checks and confirm that all measurements taken earlier are still accurate.

Once everything is verified, you’ll be guided into the treatment room, where the actual surgery takes place. Even though the laser portion is extremely quick, the staff will take their time ensuring you are comfortable, relaxed, and fully prepared. After the procedure is complete, you’ll spend a short period in a recovery area. During this time, the team will assess your eyes, provide protective eyewear if needed, and explain the aftercare routine you must follow at home.

Before leaving, you’ll receive your prescribed eye drops, written instructions, and advice on what to expect over the next few days. Since you won’t be able to drive afterward due to blurred vision and light sensitivity, it’s essential to arrange for a friend or family member to accompany you and help you get home safely.

What Affects the Length of PRK Surgery?

Although PRK is generally a quick procedure, several factors can influence how long the surgery takes. Understanding these elements helps patients set realistic expectations and plan their clinic visit more effectively. Variables such as prescription strength, surgical technique, the technology used, and whether one or both eyes are treated all play a role in determining the exact duration.

Your Prescription: The duration of the laser treatment can vary slightly depending on your prescription. Higher prescriptions may require a few extra seconds of laser application to achieve the desired correction, while lower prescriptions are typically faster.

Surgeon Technique: Different surgeons may use slightly different techniques for removing the epithelium or preparing the cornea, which can affect the overall procedure time. Regardless of the method, all approaches aim for safety, precision, and patient comfort.

Technology Used: Newer excimer lasers are faster, more precise, and more comfortable, which can significantly reduce the actual laser time. Advanced tracking systems also ensure the laser follows your eye movements accurately, improving both efficiency and results.

Whether You Treat One or Both Eyes: Treating both eyes on the same day usually adds 5–10 minutes to the total clinic time. Some patients may choose to have one eye treated at a time, but most opt for both eyes in a single session for convenience and consistent healing.

While PRK surgery is typically completed within minutes per eye, the overall time can vary depending on individual circumstances. Being aware of the factors that affect procedure length ensures patients are prepared and helps them approach surgery with confidence, knowing that efficiency and precision are always prioritised for safe, optimal results.

What You Can Do to Make the Day Smoother

Preparing ahead of time can make your PRK surgery day far more comfortable and stress-free. Start by wearing loose, comfortable clothing so you can relax easily in the clinic chair, and avoid makeup, lotions, or skincare around your eyes to ensure a clean surgical field.

It’s also important not to wear contact lenses before your procedure, as your surgeon will advise how long to remove them based on your lens type and prescription. This allows the cornea to return to its natural shape, ensuring accurate measurements and a safer procedure.

Arrange for a lift home, since your vision will be temporarily blurry and your eyes may be sensitive to light after surgery. Don’t forget to bring sunglasses to protect your eyes from bright light once you leave the clinic.

Following these simple steps can make the day smoother, reduce anxiety, and help you feel more prepared, so you can focus on your recovery and the exciting prospect of clearer vision.

Frequently Asked Questions:

1. How long does the PRK procedure itself take?
   The actual PRK procedure is surprisingly quick, usually taking about ten to fifteen minutes per eye from start to finish. The laser portion, which reshapes the cornea, typically lasts less than a minute, while the rest of the time is spent preparing the eye, removing the thin surface layer, and placing the protective bandage lens. Even though the full appointment lasts one to two hours, the time spent in the treatment room is very short.
2. Why does the recovery take longer even though the surgery is so fast?
   Recovery takes longer because PRK involves removing the epithelium, the thin surface layer of the cornea. This layer needs time to regenerate naturally, which can take several days and is the main reason patients experience discomfort and blurry vision at first. While the laser work is quick, the eye’s healing process is what determines the length of recovery, not the duration of the surgery itself.
3. Does the speed of PRK surgery affect its safety or results?
   The speed of PRK does not compromise results. The short treatment time reflects the efficiency of modern excimer laser technology, which reshapes the cornea with extraordinary precision. Because the laser tracks eye movements automatically and removes tissue with micrometre accuracy, the outcomes are consistently high, and the quick procedure time is simply a reflection of the technology’s capability.
4. Will I feel anything during the surgery?
   You will not feel pain during PRK because numbing drops are applied before the procedure begins. These drops work quickly and keep the eye comfortable throughout the process. Patients often describe feeling only mild pressure or awareness that the surgeon is working on the eye, but no sharp or painful sensations occur.
5. Do both eyes take the same amount of time to treat?
   Yes, both eyes generally take the same amount of time to complete. After the first eye is treated, the team simply repeats the exact steps for the second. The only variation may come from minor differences in prescription or individual anatomy, but such differences usually affect only a few seconds of laser time.
6. How long will I spend at the clinic on surgery day?
   Most people spend between one and two hours at the clinic. This time includes checking in, final measurements, preparation, the surgery itself, and the immediate recovery period. Even though the surgical portion is short, the clinic ensures you have enough time before and after the procedure to feel informed, calm, and ready to go home safely.
7. When will I be able to drive again after PRK?
   Driving is usually possible between five and ten days after PRK, depending on how quickly your eyes heal and when your vision meets legal requirements. The epithelium needs time to regenerate, and vision can fluctuate during the early days, so your surgeon will confirm when it’s safe for you to get back behind the wheel.
8. How soon can I return to work after PRK surgery?
   Most people take between three and seven days off work after PRK. The exact timing depends on how quickly your discomfort settles, how soon your vision clears enough for your job duties, and whether your work involves screen time or detailed tasks. While some people recover faster, it’s best to give yourself several days to rest.
9. Does a higher prescription affect how long PRK surgery takes?
   A higher prescription can add a small amount of laser time, but the difference is minimal. The excimer laser removes tissue in micrometre-thin layers, so even moderately high prescriptions usually require only a few additional seconds. Whether your prescription is mild or strong, the overall surgery time remains fast and efficient.
10. Can anything make the surgery take longer than usual?
    The surgery itself rarely takes longer than expected because modern PRK protocols are highly standardised. The only factors that may slightly extend the timeline include variations in surgeon technique, additional cleansing of the corneal surface, or patient movement that requires the laser to pause automatically. These moments are normal and do not affect the quality of the final result.

Final Thought: Is PRK the Right Choice for You?

If you’re considering vision correction and want a clearer understanding of the procedure, knowing the full PRK timeline can make the entire experience feel far more predictable and reassuring. The surgery itself is remarkably fast, with only a few minutes of laser time per eye, while the rest of your visit focuses on preparation, comfort, and ensuring a smooth recovery. Although PRK takes longer to heal than LASIK, its precision, safety, and long-term stability make it an excellent option for many people especially those with thin corneas, active lifestyles, or concerns about flap-based procedures. If you’re exploring whether PRK surgery in London could benefit you, get in touch with us at Eye Clinic London to schedule your consultation.

References:

1. Kamiya, K., Shimizu, K. & Igarashi, A. (2019) ‘Predictability and safety of transepithelial photorefractive keratectomy for myopia’, Journal of Clinical Medicine, 8(3), p. 289. https://www.mdpi.com/2077-0383/8/3/289
2. Shetty, R., Nagaraj, H., Jayadev, C., Kurian, M. & Nuijts, R.M.M.A. (2013) ‘Wavefront-guided vs. topography-guided PRK: clinical outcomes’, Clinical Ophthalmology, MDPI Edition, 7, pp. 1063–1071. https://www.mdpi.com/2079-9721/7/3/1063
3. Fadlallah, A. et al. (2011) ‘Transepithelial photorefractive keratectomy: clinical results’, Journal of Cataract & Refractive Surgery, 37(10), pp. 1852–1857. https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC3209770/
4. Gauthier-Fournet, O. et al. (2016) ‘Long-term outcomes of PRK and LASIK’, International Journal of Ophthalmology, 9(4), pp. 610–614. https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC4832484/
5. O’Brart, D.P.S. (2016) ‘Modern photorefractive keratectomy: safety, efficacy and stability’, Eye, 30(2), pp. 245–262. https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/26769106/