Photorefractive keratectomy
PRK: laser vision correction without a flap.
PRK uses the same excimer laser as LASIK to reshape the cornea, but it works on the surface, so no flap is created. It’s often the choice for thinner corneas and very active lifestyles.
No flap
Treatment on the corneal surface
Excimer laser
The same laser used for LASIK
3–5 days
Typical initial healing
Since 1988
The original laser vision procedure
How PRK works
Reshaping the surface of the cornea.
The thin outer layer of the cornea is gently removed, then an excimer laser reshapes the cornea so light focuses correctly on the retina. The outer layer grows back naturally as you heal.
Like LASIK, PRK can reduce or eliminate your need for glasses and contact lenses.
No flap
Nothing to dislodge later, which matters for contact sports.
Stronger cornea
The cornea is considered structurally stronger after PRK than after LASIK.
Thinner corneas
Often possible when corneas are too thin for LASIK.
Proven results
The first laser vision procedure, refined over decades.
Candidacy
Who chooses PRK?
- You were told your corneas are too thin for LASIK
- You play contact sports or do high-impact activities
- Your job is physically demanding
- Your eyes are healthy and your prescription is stable
Not sure which procedure fits?
Your evaluation compares LASIK, PRK and lens-based options for your eyes, so you can choose with confidence.
PRK vs. LASIK
What’s different about recovery.
PRK asks a little more patience early on, in exchange for a flap-free result.
Comfort
Discomfort after PRK is usually more noticeable than after LASIK and can last up to about two weeks.
Vision
Vision is blurry for the first few days while the surface heals, then steadily improves.
Long term
No corneal flap, and a cornea that stays structurally stronger.
Your surgeon
Experience you can trust.
Your surgeon’s experience matters. Dr. M. Reza Neal has served as Medical Director of Anaheim Eye Institute since 2005 and has performed more than 40,000 surgical procedures.
Ask every question you have. We’ll explain each step so you know exactly what to expect.
PRK FAQs
Questions patients ask us.
Is PRK painful?
The procedure itself uses numbing drops. Afterward, expect more discomfort than with LASIK for several days, which your doctor will help you manage.
How long is recovery?
Initial healing usually takes 3 to 5 days, and full comfort can take up to about two weeks. Vision keeps sharpening over the following weeks.
Is PRK the same as LASEK?
They’re close relatives. LASEK loosens the surface layer and moves it aside, then puts it back after the laser treatment.
Why choose PRK over LASIK?
PRK can work for thinner corneas and avoids a flap, which some patients with active jobs or sports prefer.
Your best vision starts here.
Call us
Visit US
1211 W La Palma Ave, Ste 201
Anaheim, CA 9280
Anaheim, CA 9280
Office hours
Monday–Friday, 8 am–5 pm
Saturday–Sunday closed
Saturday–Sunday closed