PRK surgery is the oldest form of laser vision correction, but despite its long history, it still remains a very popular and traditional way of correcting refractive eye errors.

PRK surgery involves using laser technology to reshape the cornea so that light passes through the eyes properly, hitting the retina at the back of the eye in such a way that makes images appear clear rather than mixed. However unlike LASIK, PRK surgery involves the removal of the whole of the epithelium – the outermost layer of the corneal tissue. It does regenerate, but this takes time. This means that recovering from PRK surgery takes a little longer than it does from LASIK.

Here are our top tips for caring for your eyes and recovering following PRK surgery.

Avoid Visual Stimulation for at Least 24 Hours

After your PRK surgery, it’s important that you avoid any activities which could cause eyestrain. This means that you should rest your eyes and let them heal as much as possible – sleeping is best! To best kick-start your healing process, don’t watch tv, read, or use a digital device for at least 24 hours.

Use Your Eyedrops as Prescribed

Your PRK surgeon will almost certainly prescribe you medicated eyedrops to use following your surgery. These will help to prevent infection and support the healing process so that you can get back to your usual activities as quickly as possible. Be sure to use these exactly as directed, and ask your PRK surgery team if you have any questions or concerns.

Wear Your Eye Shields as Recommended

After your surgery, your PRK surgeon will provide you with eye shields to wear. These will protect your eyes from any tiny particles or harmful microorganisms, as well as from you accidentally touching, itching, or rubbing them. Wear them exactly as directed for the best protection.

Protect Your Eyes from the Sun

Your eyes will be particularly sensitive in the days and weeks following your PRK surgery. This can affect your ability to participate in day-to-day activities as well as cause pain and irritation. It’s a good idea to wear sunglasses whenever you can, as they provide the best protection against damage to your vision caused by the sun.

Wash Your Hair the Morning of Your Surgery

You’ll need to make sure that you don’t get water in your eyes while the heal, so we strongly recommend that you wash your hair the morning of your surgery.

Prepare Your Home Ahead of Your Procedure

It can be hard to relax in a busy, chaotic home. However, you can help make your recovery easier by making your home a place of tranquillity ahead of your procedure. Fill your fridge and freezer with everything you could need, download some entertainment to start enjoying from Day 2 following your PRK surgery, and schedule in some support with any children or animals that you have. You should also take time off of work – at least 48 hours would be ideal so that you can give your eyes a break from any visual concentration tasks.

Speak to Your PRK Surgeon

If you have any concerns at any stage of your recovery, we recommend that you don’t delay and instead, speak to your surgical team right away. They will be able to answer any questions that you have and arrange for you to be seen if required.

For more information and advice about PRK surgery, please contact our experienced PRK laser vision correction team at Laser Vision Delaware in Wilmington, Delaware at 302-656-2020 today.