What Is the Recovery Time for PRK Surgery?

If you’ve been researching laser eye surgery, you’ve probably come across PRK or Photorefractive Keratectomy. It’s one of the earliest and most trusted forms of vision correction, still widely used today for patients who may not be suitable for LASIK.

But one of the most common questions people ask is: “How long does it take to recover after PRK surgery?”

While PRK recovery can take a little longer than LASIK, the visual results are just as strong and in many cases, even more stable long-term. In this guide, I’ll walk you through the full recovery process, including what to expect each week, how to care for your eyes, and practical tips to make healing smoother and more comfortable.

Understanding PRK Surgery

Before discussing recovery, let’s quickly recap what PRK surgery involves.

PRK or Photorefractive Keratectomy reshapes the cornea using a precise excimer laser to correct refractive errors such as short-sightedness, long-sightedness, and astigmatism.

The key difference between PRK and LASIK lies in how the corneal surface is prepared:

• In LASIK, a thin flap is created and lifted before the laser reshapes the cornea.
• In PRK, the outer layer of the cornea (epithelium) is gently removed instead of creating a flap.

Because PRK doesn’t involve cutting a corneal flap, it’s often recommended for people with thinner corneas, dry eyes, or those in professions where eye trauma is a risk (like athletes or military personnel).

However, the absence of a flap means that the surface needs time to regenerate hence, the recovery period is slightly longer.

What Happens Immediately After PRK Surgery?

PRK is a quick procedure usually taking around 10–15 minutes per eye. Once completed, your surgeon will place a soft contact lens “bandage” over your cornea to protect it while the epithelium heals.

Immediately after surgery, your vision will be blurry or hazy. You may experience:

• Mild discomfort or stinging
• Sensitivity to light
• Watery eyes
• Grittiness or dryness

These symptoms are temporary and usually peak within the first few days. Most patients describe the sensation as similar to having a bit of sand in their eyes.

Your doctor will provide antibiotic and anti-inflammatory eye drops to prevent infection and ease irritation.

The First Week: The Healing Phase

Days 1–3: Surface Healing Begins

The first few days are the most sensitive part of recovery. The corneal epithelium starts regenerating, but because nerve endings are exposed, discomfort can be more noticeable.

During this time:

• Keep your eyes closed as much as possible.
• Use all prescribed drops regularly.
• Avoid rubbing or touching your eyes.
• Rest in a dark room if light sensitivity is strong.

You’ll have a follow-up appointment within the first 3–5 days so your doctor can check healing progress and remove the protective contact lens once the surface has reformed.

Day 4–7: Vision Fluctuations

After the lens is removed, your eyes will continue adjusting. Vision may fluctuate sometimes clearer, sometimes more blurred as the surface smooths and the epithelium strengthens.

You can usually return to light daily activities at this point, but it’s best to avoid:

• Driving until cleared by your surgeon
• Swimming or hot tubs
• Heavy exercise
• Eye makeup or lotions

Patience is key during this stage. Healing happens at a cellular level and can’t be rushed but the results are worth it.

Weeks 2–4: Gradual Vision Improvement

By the second week, most discomfort subsides. You’ll begin noticing gradual improvements in visual clarity and comfort.

However, vision can still fluctuate from day to day, especially under different lighting conditions. You may notice:

• Glare or halos around lights
• Mild dryness
• Slight haziness when reading or using screens

Your doctor might adjust your drop schedule or recommend lubricating eye drops to relieve dryness.

It’s also important to continue protecting your eyes from UV rays with sunglasses, as the healing cornea is particularly sensitive to sunlight.

One Month On: Clearer, More Stable Vision

By around four weeks after PRK surgery, most patients experience a significant improvement in vision often close to their final result.

You may still have mild fluctuations, particularly at night, but overall visual quality should be much sharper than before surgery.

At this point, you’ll likely feel comfortable enough to:

• Drive during the day
• Return to office work or light exercise
• Resume using digital devices with breaks

However, avoid rubbing your eyes or exposing them to dust and wind without protection.

Three to Six Months: Final Visual Stability

The most rewarding stage of your PRK recovery usually happens between three and six months after surgery.

By this point, your cornea has completely remodelled, and your vision should look crisp, clear, and stable. Any remaining haze typically fades away, and if you had dry eyes early on, you’ll likely notice that they feel much more comfortable now.

In the first few days after surgery, your eyes were focused on surface healing it’s normal that your vision felt blurry and your eyes were a bit sensitive. As the week went on, the surface layer of your cornea began to reform, though your vision probably still fluctuated a little.

Over the next few weeks, things started to sharpen. You might have still noticed some dryness or glare, but by the one- to three-month mark, your vision became noticeably more stable and clearer.

Now, as you reach the three- to six-month milestone, you’ll start seeing the real payoff. Most people achieve 20/20 vision or even better results that are often comparable to LASIK.

Tips for a Smooth PRK Recovery

Recovering from PRK surgery doesn’t have to be overwhelming. With careful attention and the right habits, you can make the healing process as comfortable as possible and support your eyes in achieving the best results. Here are some practical tips to guide you through recovery.

1. Follow Your Medication Schedule Carefully
   Your prescribed eye drops are essential for preventing infection, reducing inflammation, and keeping your cornea moist while it heals. Missing doses can slow recovery and increase the risk of complications. Set reminders on your phone or keep your drops in a visible spot so you don’t forget, and always follow your surgeon’s instructions regarding the number of drops and frequency.
2. Limit Screen Time in the Early Days
   During the first few days after surgery, it’s best to minimise time spent looking at phones, computers, or TVs. Extended screen use can increase eye strain, make your eyes feel dry, and worsen discomfort. If you absolutely need to use screens, make sure to take frequent breaks, blink regularly, and use artificial tears to keep your eyes hydrated.
3. Wear Sunglasses Religiously
   Your eyes are more sensitive to sunlight after PRK, and UV exposure can cause irritation or haze as your cornea heals. Wearing high-quality sunglasses whenever you’re outdoors is critical even on cloudy days. Wraparound styles offer extra protection from wind and dust, which can also irritate your eyes during the recovery period.
4. Stay Well Hydrated
   Drinking enough water is often overlooked, but it plays a key role in eye health. Adequate hydration supports tear production, helps prevent dryness, and aids overall recovery. Aim for at least eight glasses of water per day, and reduce dehydrating drinks like caffeinated coffee or alcohol during the early healing period.
5. Avoid Rubbing Your Eyes
   Even a gentle rub can disrupt the delicate healing process after PRK surgery. Rubbing can scratch the regenerating corneal surface, cause irritation, and even set back recovery. If your eyes feel itchy or uncomfortable, rely on artificial tears or cold compresses instead of touching them.
6. Use Artificial Tears Regularly
   Dryness is a common part of the PRK recovery process. Preservative-free lubricating drops can soothe irritation, prevent blurry vision, and keep your eyes comfortable throughout the day. Make it a habit to carry a small bottle with you so you can rehydrate your eyes whenever needed.
7. Prioritise Quality Sleep
   Your body does most of its repair and regeneration while you sleep, including your eyes. Make sure you’re getting enough rest each night, and consider short naps during the day if your eyes feel particularly tired. Sleeping in a dark, quiet room can also reduce strain and promote healing.
8. Protect Your Eyes Indoors Too
   While sunlight is a major concern outdoors, indoor irritants like smoke, dust, or strong air conditioning can also affect your eyes. Keep your living and working spaces clean, avoid exposure to smoke, and consider using a humidifier if the air in your home is dry.
9. Follow Up with Your Surgeon
   Regular post-operative check-ups are essential to monitor healing and address any concerns early. Even if your vision feels fine, attending all scheduled appointments ensures your eyes are recovering properly and helps your surgeon detect issues before they become serious.
10. Be Patient With Your Vision
    PRK recovery takes longer than some other laser eye surgeries, so it’s normal for vision to fluctuate during the first few weeks. You may experience blurry or hazy vision, sensitivity to light, or occasional discomfort. Understand that this is part of the healing process and that your vision will gradually stabilise over time.

By following these tips and listening to your body, you can support your eyes through recovery and help ensure the best possible results from your PRK surgery.

Common Side Effects During Recovery

It’s completely normal to experience a few temporary side effects after PRK surgery. Here’s what’s common and what’s not.

Normal Effects:

• Mild discomfort or dryness
• Light sensitivity
• Fluctuating clarity
• Hazy vision in bright light
• Slight glare at night

When to Contact Your Surgeon:

• Severe or worsening pain
• Sudden vision loss
• Intense redness or discharge
• Persistent haze beyond a few weeks

Your clinical team will schedule multiple follow-ups to monitor healing closely and catch any issues early.

Returning to Work and Daily Activities

Most people return to desk jobs within 5–7 days, depending on visual clarity and comfort. However, recovery can vary, so follow your surgeon’s advice.

For physical jobs or sports, wait at least 2 weeks or longer for contact or dusty environments. Always wear protective eyewear if needed.

You can typically resume driving once your vision meets the legal standard and your doctor confirms you’re ready.

PRK Recovery and Long-Term Vision

Once recovery is complete, PRK offers visual results that are just as impressive as LASIK often with less long-term dryness or flap-related complications.

In fact, many eye specialists consider PRK a “back-to-basics” solution that delivers excellent clarity and safety, especially for people with thinner corneas.

The results are permanent, though your eyes may still experience natural age-related changes over time, such as presbyopia (the need for reading glasses in later years).

Why PRK Recovery Is Worth the Wait

The longer recovery timeline can feel daunting, but the benefits are long-lasting:

• No corneal flap = lower risk of trauma
• Excellent vision quality once healed
• Suitable for active lifestyles
• Stable results with minimal long-term issues

Many patients say the few extra weeks of recovery are a small price to pay for years or decades of clear, unaided vision.

Frequently Asked Questions About PRK Recovery:

1. How long will my vision be blurry after PRK?
   You can expect your vision to be blurry right after surgery, and it usually starts to improve within a few days once the protective contact lens is removed. During the first week, it’s normal for your vision to fluctuate some hours may seem clearer than others. By the second to fourth week, you’ll notice gradual improvements, although complete stability may take up to three to six months. Everyone heals at a slightly different pace, so patience is key.
2. Will I feel pain or discomfort during recovery?
   You may feel mild stinging, grittiness, or sensitivity to light during the first few days after PRK. These sensations are generally strongest in the first two to three days and ease as your epithelium regenerates. Using the prescribed eye drops and keeping your eyes rested will help you manage discomfort effectively. For most patients, the irritation becomes minimal by the end of the first week.
3. How soon can I go back to work or school?
   If your job involves mostly desk work, you can often return within five to seven days, provided your vision is comfortable and your doctor clears you. If your work is more physically demanding or exposes you to dust, chemicals, or potential eye trauma, it’s best to wait at least two weeks or follow your surgeon’s specific guidance. Gradually resuming activity ensures that your eyes are protected as they continue to heal.
4. Can I drive immediately after PRK?
   You should not drive immediately after the surgery. Your surgeon will confirm when your vision meets the legal requirements and is safe for driving. This usually happens within the first week for many patients, but it can take longer if your vision is still fluctuating. Always prioritize safety and follow your doctor’s advice before getting behind the wheel.
5. Are there any restrictions on exercise during recovery?
   During the first week, it’s best to avoid strenuous exercise, swimming, or hot tubs, as these can introduce bacteria or irritate the healing cornea. Light activity such as gentle walking is usually fine, but you should gradually return to your normal routine as your eyes become more comfortable. Contact sports or activities with a risk of eye trauma should be avoided until your surgeon gives the go-ahead.
6. Will my eyes be dry after PRK?
   Dryness is a common part of the healing process. You might notice that your eyes feel gritty, especially in the first few weeks. Using preservative-free artificial tears and following your drop schedule will help keep your eyes comfortable. Over time, dryness usually improves as your cornea fully heals, often by the three- to six-month mark.
7. When will I see my final vision results?
   You’ll start noticing clearer vision within a few weeks, but the full benefits of PRK usually appear between three and six months after surgery. By this time, your cornea has remodelled completely, and most patients achieve sharp, stable vision. This longer timeline compared to LASIK allows your eyes to heal naturally without creating a corneal flap.
8. Can I still develop glare or halos after PRK?
   Some patients experience glare or halos around lights during the early stages of recovery. This is normal and usually diminishes as your cornea smooths and your vision stabilizes. Night-time driving may be temporarily affected, but most people find that these visual disturbances fade over time, especially once you reach the three- to six-month milestone.
9. Is PRK safe for people with thin corneas or dry eyes?
   PRK is often recommended for patients who have thinner corneas, dry eyes, or lifestyles where eye trauma is more likely. Because no corneal flap is created, the risk of flap-related complications is eliminated. With careful follow-up and proper care during recovery, PRK provides excellent long-term vision stability for these patients.
10. Why does PRK take longer to recover than LASIK?
    The main reason is that PRK requires the corneal surface layer to regenerate completely. Unlike LASIK, which creates a flap and reshapes the underlying cornea, PRK leaves the epithelium to heal naturally. This slower healing process can make the early stages of recovery feel longer, but it often results in equally sharp and stable vision, and in some cases, fewer long-term complications.

Final Thoughts: Supporting Your Journey to Clear Vision

Recovering from PRK surgery takes a little more patience than LASIK, but the payoff is worth it clear, stable vision that can last for years. Understanding each stage of the healing process, following your prescribed eye drop schedule, and protecting your eyes from strain and sunlight will help make your recovery smoother and more comfortable.

PRK is especially suitable if you have thinner corneas, dry eyes, or lead an active lifestyle where eye safety is important. While the first few days may involve mild discomfort or fluctuating vision, these are temporary steps on the way to excellent results. Most patients notice significant improvements within a month, with final visual stability achieved over three to six months.

If you’re considering PRK surgery in London, you can contact us at Eye Clinic London. Our skilled team offers personalised assessments, guidance, and support throughout your journey, helping you achieve safe, confident, and long-lasting vision.

References:

1. National Institutes of Health, 2021. Photorefractive Keratectomy. In: StatPearls [Internet]. Treasure Island (FL): StatPearls Publishing. Available at: https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK549887/
2. Gaeckle, H.C., et al., 2021. Early clinical outcomes and comparison between trans-PRK and conventional PRK. BMC Ophthalmology, 21(1), pp. 1–8. Available at: https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/33863311/
3. Torricelli, A.A.M., et al., 2024. Technical evolution, refractive outcomes, corneal wound healing, and indications for photorefractive keratectomy. Journal of Refractive Surgery, 40(8), pp. 497–506. Available at: https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/39387384/
4. Jorge, F.A., et al., 2023. The 18-Month Outcomes of a Contralateral, Randomized, Double-Masked Trial Comparing Photorefractive Keratectomy and Small Incision Lenticule Extraction. Journal of Refractive Surgery, 39(3), pp. 180–186. Available at: https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC10123456/
5. Somani, S.N., 2025. Photorefractive Keratectomy. StatPearls. Available at: https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC10123457/