PRK: The Flapless Alternative to LASIK
For patients with thinner corneas or active lifestyles, PRK offers the same laser precision as LASIK — without creating a corneal flap.
What Is PRK?
PRK (Photorefractive Keratectomy) was the original laser vision correction procedure, predating LASIK. Instead of creating a corneal flap, the surgeon gently removes the thin outer layer of the cornea (the epithelium), then uses an excimer laser to reshape the corneal surface directly. The epithelium naturally regrows over the following days.
PRK vs LASIK: Key Differences
- No flap – PRK preserves more of the cornea's structural integrity, making it a better option for thinner corneas.
- Longer initial recovery – vision takes several days to clear as the epithelium heals, versus near-immediate clarity with LASIK.
- Similar long-term results – once fully healed, PRK and LASIK generally achieve comparable visual outcomes.
- Lower long-term flap-related risk – since there's no flap, there's no risk of flap dislodgement, even after facial trauma.
Cross-section of the human eye (Wikimedia Commons, CC BY-SA 3.0)
Who Should Consider PRK
- Patients with corneas too thin for a safe LASIK flap
- People in contact sports or occupations with higher risk of eye trauma (including military personnel)
- Those with certain corneal surface irregularities
Recovery Timeline
A temporary bandage contact lens is worn for about a week to protect the healing surface. Vision is typically blurry and mildly uncomfortable for the first several days, gradually clearing over 1–2 weeks, with full stabilization taking a few weeks to a couple of months.
The Takeaway
PRK trades a slightly longer, less comfortable recovery for a technique that's gentler on the cornea's long-term structure. For the right candidate, it delivers vision correction just as effective as LASIK.