PRK recovery differs from LASIK
After PRK, the surface layer of the cornea needs to regrow. Discomfort can be greater in the first few days and vision improves gradually. Do not compare your recovery with someone else’s.
In the first few days
Rest after returning home and start your medication according to the instructions you received. Burning, watering, light sensitivity and blurred vision can occur. Recovery and visual stabilisation vary between people.
Do not drive after surgery. Resume driving only when your team confirms it is safe.
The bandage contact lens
The lens placed after PRK protects the cornea while it heals. Do not remove or handle it: your team will remove it after checking healing. If it falls out, do not reinsert it; contact your team.
Everyday protection
- Do not rub your eyes and avoid water, shampoo or soap entering them. Use eye protection as instructed by your team.
- Wear sunglasses outdoors. Dr. Nuno Lopes’s instructions recommend sun protection for at least two to three months after PRK.
- Dr. Nuno Lopes’s written instructions advise avoiding physical exertion for seven days and team sports, swimming pools, the sea, saunas and makeup for 30 days. Always confirm the timings appropriate for you.
Eye drops and follow-up visits
Follow only your own prescription: medicines, frequencies and duration may change after lens removal. Do not copy another patient’s regimen or change or extend treatment without medical advice.
Wash your hands before eye drops, avoid touching your eye with the bottle and leave at least five minutes between different drops. Attend every scheduled follow-up appointment.
WHEN TO SEEK HELP
When to seek help without delay
Severe or increasing pain, sudden or worsening vision loss, increasing redness, discharge or marked swelling require prompt contact with your surgical team.
Use the postoperative contact you were given. If you cannot reach your team and symptoms are significant, seek urgent eye care. Do not wait for your scheduled appointment.
Print or save this guide as PDF
Use your browser’s print option to print or save a PDF copy.
General patient information. Your prescription and postoperative contact are provided individually by your team.
Information sources
- Dr. Nuno Lopes’s PRK aftercare instructions.
- American Academy of Ophthalmology · PRK
- Moorfields · bandage contact lens
- Cambridge University Hospitals · care after eye surgery