PRK Vision Correction in Brooklyn

The FDA advises that no lasers are approved for patients under 18. It also warns that a prescription that changed within the past year signals refractive instability. According to the Cleveland Clinic, PRK is often the better choice for people with dry eyes, thin corneas, or a very active lifestyle. Your candidacy is confirmed with corneal imaging during your consultation.

For many active patients, PRK is the safer long-term option. PRK does not create a corneal flap, which can shift during strenuous activity. The FDA specifically flags boxing, wrestling, and martial arts as concerns for flap-based refractive surgery. The FDA also notes that some employers and military branches restrict certain procedures.

The procedure itself is painless, but the first few days of recovery are the most uncomfortable. Kaiser Permanente's patient guide notes that the eye may hurt, burn, or itch for three or four days after surgery, along with blurry vision and watering. Your doctor will recommend or prescribe pain medicine, and rest helps most patients stay comfortable.

A bandage contact lens is a soft, clear lens with no prescription. Your surgeon places it over the eye right after PRK to protect the healing cornea; the surface layer of the cornea typically regrows in about 3 to 4 days. The lens is usually removed by your doctor two to four days after surgery.

Vision after PRK improves gradually. Cleveland Clinic reports that about 80% of patients see improved vision one month after surgery and 95% after three months. Kaiser Permanente notes that some people need three to six months to reach their sharpest vision.

Your doctor will prescribe drops to prevent infection and to ease dryness, which also help prevent corneal haze.

PRK has a strong safety record, but as with any surgery, there are risks. These include temporary glare or halos, dry eye, undercorrection or overcorrection, infection, and corneal haze. Light sensitivity and halos commonly last one to three weeks, and the eye may feel dry for one to three months.

Most patients can return to work or their normal routine within about three to seven days. Someone will need to drive you home after the procedure, as driving can resume only once your eye doctor confirms your vision is safe. Your NY Laser Vision surgeon will give you specific timelines for exercise and swimming.

PRK permanently reshapes the cornea to correct your current prescription, but it does not stop the eye from aging. The National Eye Institute notes that everyone develops presbyopia with age, usually after 45, making close-up vision harder. Most PRK patients will eventually need reading glasses, so we will explain your long-term outlook during your consultation.

PRK is considered an elective procedure. The FDA notes that most medical insurance plans will not cover refractive surgery. Your exact cost depends on your prescription and treatment plan, and you will receive a quote during your consultation. You can review payment options on the Financing & Insurance page.