Navigating your PRK recovery: Essential tips for a smooth healing process

Photorefractive keratectomy (PRK) is a popular laser eye surgery option for those looking to correct their vision without the need for glasses or contact lenses. While PRK offers long-lasting vision improvement, the recovery process takes a bit more time compared to other laser procedures like LASIK. Understanding what to expect and how to care for your eyes post-surgery is key to ensuring a smooth healing process.

In this blog, we’ll guide you through the essential tips for navigating your PRK recovery and help you get back to clear, comfortable vision as quickly as possible.

What to Expect After PRK

Unlike LASIK, PRK doesn’t involve creating a flap in the cornea. Instead, the surgeon removes the outer layer of the cornea (the epithelium), which regenerates over time. This means that the initial recovery period can be longer and slightly more uncomfortable than with LASIK.

In the first few days after surgery, your vision may be blurry, and you might experience discomfort, dryness, or a gritty feeling in your eyes. These symptoms are normal and will improve as your eyes heal.

The good news is that once the healing process is complete, most patients enjoy clear, sharp vision without the need for glasses or contact lenses. Here’s how you can navigate the recovery period with ease.

1. Follow Your Doctor’s Instructions Carefully

Your eye surgeon will provide you with a set of instructions for your recovery, including how to use prescription eye drops and how to care for your eyes. These instructions are crucial for preventing infection and promoting healing, so follow them diligently.

You’ll likely be given:

• Antibiotic drops to prevent infection.
• Anti-inflammatory drops to reduce swelling and promote healing.
• Lubricating drops to keep your eyes moisturised and comfortable.

Be sure to use these drops exactly as prescribed. Avoid skipping doses, as this can delay your healing process.

2. Protect Your Eyes From Light

In the first few days after PRK, your eyes will be extremely sensitive to light. You may experience discomfort in brightly lit environments or even in normal daylight. To ease this, wear sunglasses with UV protection whenever you are outdoors, even if it’s overcast. This will not only help reduce discomfort but also protect your eyes from harmful UV rays as they heal.

It’s also a good idea to dim the lights inside your home and avoid screens, such as computers, phones, and televisions, as much as possible during the initial recovery period. Your eyes need rest, and limiting screen time will help reduce strain.

3. Avoid Rubbing Your Eyes

After PRK, your eyes will be in a vulnerable state as they heal. Rubbing your eyes can disrupt the healing process and increase the risk of infection or complications. If your eyes feel itchy or uncomfortable, use the prescribed lubricating drops to soothe them, rather than rubbing them.

In the early stages of recovery, you may be given a protective contact lens to wear over your eye. This lens acts as a bandage, shielding the cornea while the epithelial layer regenerates. Avoid touching or disturbing this lens, and follow your surgeon’s instructions on when and how it should be removed.

4. Rest and Take It Easy

Rest is a critical part of your recovery process after PRK. In the first 24 to 48 hours, it’s essential to rest your eyes as much as possible. Avoid activities that can strain your eyes, such as reading, working on a computer, or watching TV for extended periods. Your vision may be blurry in these early days, so give your eyes the time they need to heal.

During the first week, it’s also important to avoid strenuous activities, heavy lifting, or any sports that could risk injury to your eyes. Let your body focus on healing, and ease back into your regular routine as your vision improves.

5. Stay Hydrated and Maintain Eye Moisture

Dryness is a common issue during PRK recovery, and it can cause discomfort or prolong the healing process. To combat this, stay hydrated by drinking plenty of water throughout the day. Keeping your body hydrated helps maintain moisture in your eyes, which is essential for healing.

In addition, use your lubricating eye drops regularly, even if your eyes don’t feel particularly dry. These drops will help keep your eyes comfortable and reduce the risk of irritation.

6. Be Patient with Your Vision

It’s normal for your vision to fluctuate in the days and weeks following PRK surgery. You may experience periods of blurriness or feel like your vision is sharp one moment and unclear the next. This is part of the natural healing process as your corneal tissue regenerates.

Full visual recovery after PRK can take several weeks, sometimes even up to a few months. While it can be frustrating to deal with fluctuating vision, patience is key. As your eyes heal, your vision will stabilise, and you’ll begin to enjoy the full benefits of the surgery.

7. Attend Follow-Up Appointments

Regular follow-up appointments with your eye surgeon are essential during the recovery period. These check-ups allow your doctor to monitor your healing progress and ensure that your eyes are recovering as expected. Your surgeon can also address any concerns or complications that may arise during the recovery process.

Be sure to attend all scheduled appointments and follow any additional advice or instructions your doctor provides based on your progress.

8. Know When to Seek Help

While PRK recovery is generally smooth, it’s important to be aware of any signs of complications. If you experience severe pain, significant changes in vision, increased redness, or any signs of infection, such as pus or swelling, contact your surgeon immediately. Early intervention can prevent more serious complications and ensure your recovery stays on track.

Conclusion

Recovering from PRK may take time, but with the right care and attention, you can ensure a smooth healing process and enjoy the long-term benefits of clearer vision. By following your surgeon’s instructions, protecting your eyes, and giving your body the rest it needs, you’ll be well on your way to optimal recovery.

If you’re considering PRK or want more advice on your recovery process, book a free video call with a team member today. They can guide you through the procedure and answer any questions you have about achieving the best possible results for your vision.