When should you notice an improvement after PRK?

If you’re thinking about PRK (Photorefractive Keratectomy), you might already know the recovery takes longer than LASIK.

But when will you actually start to see an improvement?

Let’s take a simple look at what to expect after PRK — day by day, week by week — so you know exactly when things start getting clearer.

Right after surgery (day 0)

You’ll go home wearing a bandage contact lens to protect the surface of your eye.

Vision will be blurry — this is completely normal. You may feel:

• Gritty eyes
• Light sensitivity
• Blurry or hazy vision
• Some discomfort

Days 1–3: The tough part

Your vision will still be blurry in these first few days. The surface of your eye is healing, and your body is adjusting.

Many people rest, avoid screens, and wear sunglasses indoors and out.

Days 4–7: First improvements

The protective contact lens usually comes out around day 5. That’s when most people begin to notice clearer vision — though it may still come and go.

You’ll probably feel:

• Less discomfort
• Less light sensitivity
• Some moments of sharper vision, but not fully stable yet

Week 2: Daily improvements

By the end of the second week:

• Vision is usually clear enough to drive short distances (if cleared by your surgeon).
• Office work is easier.
• You’ll notice steady improvements day to day — though glare, halos, and dry eyes may still happen.

1 month: More stable

By about 1 month, vision should be:

• Much sharper
• Less fluctuation
• More consistent overall

At this point, you’ll really start to enjoy your new sight — even if your final result is still on the way.

3–6 months: Final results

Most patients reach their best vision somewhere between 3 and 6 months.

You’ll still have occasional check-ups, but by this stage:

• Vision should be sharp
• Night driving is easier
• Glare and halos are minimal or gone
• Dryness is reduced

Why does PRK take longer than LASIK?

With LASIK, the cornea heals under a flap — which protects it, allowing faster recovery.

With PRK, the surface layer (epithelium) needs to fully regrow — which naturally takes a few days, followed by gradual stabilisation.

How can you help your vision improve faster?

• Follow all aftercare instructions
• Use your drops regularly
• Protect your eyes from UV
• Don’t rub your eyes
• Eat well, hydrate, and rest

Is PRK worth the wait?

Absolutely — if you’re a good candidate.

Even though healing takes a little longer, PRK gives the same clear, lasting results as LASIK — and can be the safer choice for certain patients.

Want to know if PRK is right for you?

Take our free self-test today. It only takes a minute — and helps you find out if PRK is the right way forward.