What is PRK surgery?
If you’ve been told you’re not suitable for LASIK, you might be wondering about other options. One of the most common alternatives is PRK.
But what is PRK surgery, exactly? How does it work, and what makes it different from LASIK?
Let’s break it down.
PRK stands for Photorefractive Keratectomy
PRK is a type of laser eye procedure that corrects vision problems like:
- Short-sightedness (myopia)
- Long-sightedness (hyperopia)
- Astigmatism (blurred vision at all distances)
Just like LASIK, PRK reshapes the surface of the cornea (the clear front part of your eye) to help light focus properly on the retina. This allows you to see clearly without needing glasses or contact lenses.
How is PRK different from LASIK?
The biggest difference is how we access the cornea.
- With LASIK, a thin flap is created on the cornea, and the laser works underneath that flap.
- With PRK, there is no flap. Instead, the surface layer (called the epithelium) is gently removed before reshaping the cornea directly.
This makes PRK ideal for people who aren’t good candidates for LASIK due to thin corneas, high prescriptions, or certain corneal conditions.
What happens during PRK?
The procedure itself is quick and painless. Here’s what to expect:
- Numbing drops are placed in your eyes so you don’t feel anything.
- The surface layer of your cornea is gently removed.
- A precise laser reshapes the underlying cornea based on your prescription.
- A soft contact lens is placed on your eye to protect it while it heals.
The actual laser part takes less than a minute per eye.
Is PRK painful?
No—but the healing process is a bit more uncomfortable than LASIK.
Because the surface of the eye needs time to grow back, you might experience:
- Blurry vision for a few days
- Mild to moderate discomfort
- Light sensitivity
- Watery or gritty eyes
These symptoms are temporary and can be managed with eye drops and rest.
How long does recovery take?
- Days 1–3: Vision is blurry. You may feel discomfort or irritation.
- Days 4–7: The healing surface layer regrows. Your vision starts to improve.
- 1–2 weeks: You can return to most normal activities.
- 4–6 weeks: Your vision becomes sharper and more stable.
- 3–6 months: Final visual results settle in.
Full recovery takes longer than LASIK, but the end result is just as good for most people.
Who is PRK good for?
You may be a good candidate if:
- You’ve been told your corneas are too thin for LASIK
- You have a high prescription
- You have dry eyes or are prone to eye injuries
- You have an active lifestyle or job that involves risk of trauma (e.g. contact sports, military)
Is PRK safe?
Yes. PRK has been performed for over 30 years and is very safe when done by experienced surgeons. It has excellent long-term results and a low risk of complications.
How do I know if PRK is right for me?
Start with our quick self-test. It’s a free, simple way to find out whether PRK—or another procedure—might be a good fit for your vision goals.
Find out if you are suitable for laser eye surgery
Not everyone is eligible for vision correction surgery.
Find out if you could benefit from this life changing surgery by taking the quick self-suitability quiz below:
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What our patients say…
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“The best care, the best treatment and the best doctors.”
M.A.★ ★ ★ ★ ★
“Everything was done with care and the doctor explained everything in detail. My surgery was a success and my sight has significantly improved – I no longer use glasses.”
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“All I can say is WOW! I feel like I have new eyes.
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F.W.★ ★ ★ ★ ★
“I would refer Dr Beatty to anyone interested in LASIK or PRK eye surgery. The entire experience was really pleasant with his and his staff’s professional advice and care before, during and after the surgery.
I am very thankful to be able to look at the world and go about my day to day activities without the hassle of glasses or contact lenses.”
P.M.★ ★ ★ ★ ★
“Best money spent ever. I am so happy with the results after I had LASIK done.”
M.A.★ ★ ★ ★ ★
“BEST decision and results after I had my LASIK done by Doctor Beatty!”
A.A.★ ★ ★ ★ ★
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“Dr Daemon McClunan and the entire staff at Atlantic Eye Centre, Foreshore are beyond AMAZING. The medical care I received from Dr McClunan was outstanding and the staff was always friendly and professional.”
M.M.We have replaced the images of real patients who provided these testimonials to protect their privacy.
Hi, I’m Daemon McClunan
I’m proud to be the founder of both the Atlantic Eye Centre, a leading eye specialist centre; and LIQID Medical Pty, an award-winning biotech company. My passion for research and innovation has led me to create four patented devices, and earn various prestigious awards during my specialist training.
With a medical degree from Stellenbosch University, a specialist degree from the University of Cape Town, and experience working in renowned Laser Eye Surgery centres in Canada, Germany, India and London, I’m dedicated to providing top-tier care.
Beyond the clinic, I’ve embarked on humanitarian missions, travelling over 15,000km by motorbike to provide rural eye screenings. In my downtime, I love mountain biking, diving, and spending quality time with my family.
My goal is to provide a world-class service which ensures every patient leaves my practice feeling happier than when they first walked in.
Dr Daemon McClunan
MBChB(SU), DipOphth(SA), MMed(UCT), FcOphth(SA)
Hi, I’m James Beatty
I pride myself on providing exceptional eye care with state-of-the-art equipment and a team dedicated to excellence. With a focus on refractive surgery, I bring years of experience and expertise to each patient’s journey towards clearer vision.
As an active member of esteemed Ophthalmologist societies including the Ophthalmological Society of South Africa and the South African Society of Cataract and Refractive Surgery, I stay abreast of the latest advancements in the field.
Additionally, my affiliation with the Health Professions Council of South Africa and the South African Glaucoma Society underscores my commitment to upholding the highest standards of care.
With a passion for laser surgery, I strive to deliver optimal outcomes for every patient.
Dr James Beatty
MB ChB (UCT) FCS (SA) Ophth MMed (Stel) Ophth
