PRK vs. LASIK: Key Differences, Benefits, Risks, and What to Expect

Understand the key differences, healing timelines, and long-term outcomes of PRK and LASIK for laser vision correction.

By Sneha Tete, Integrated MA, Certified Relationship Coach

Created on Sep 26, 2025

Understand the key differences, healing timelines, and long-term outcomes of PRK and LASIK for laser vision correction.

Laser eye surgery has changed the lives of millions by correcting vision problems such as nearsightedness, farsightedness, and astigmatism. Two of the most popular procedures, PRK (photorefractive keratectomy) and LASIK (laser-assisted in situ keratomileusis), both use advanced laser technology to reshape the cornea—but they differ in key ways, from surgical technique to recovery time and who qualifies. This guide breaks down the essential differences, pros and cons, and helps you make an informed decision about your eye health.

How Do PRK and LASIK Work?

Both PRK and LASIK are refractive surgeries that reshape the cornea, the transparent outer layer of your eye, to improve how light is focused onto the retina. The procedures correct common vision problems including:

Nearsightedness (myopia)
Farsightedness (hyperopia)
Astigmatism

While the goal is similar, the way these surgeries access the corneal tissue—and the details of the procedure—differ significantly:

Procedure	How the Cornea Is Accessed	Key Difference
PRK	Removes the thin outer layer (epithelium) of the cornea	Epithelium regrows over several days post-surgery
LASIK	Creates a flap in the cornea, which is peeled back for surgery and replaced afterwards	Flap acts as a natural bandage, speeding recovery

What Happens During PRK?

The PRK procedure involves the following steps:

Numbing drops are applied to your eye so you don’t feel pain. You may also be given medication to help you relax.
The corneal epithelium (outer layer) is fully removed—a process that typically takes about 30 seconds.
An excimer laser is used to reshape the underlying corneal tissue to correct vision irregularities. This step usually takes between 30 to 60 seconds per eye.
A soft bandage contact lens is placed on the eye. It acts as a protective layer while the epithelium heals and regenerates over the next several days.

PRK is typically completed in less than 15 minutes per eye. You’ll be monitored in recovery for a brief period, but you can expect to go home the same day.

What Happens During LASIK?

The steps for LASIK are as follows:

Numbing drops are given to prevent discomfort. You may also be offered medication to help you stay calm.
A device holds your eyelids open while a suction ring stabilizes the eye. This may cause some pressure and temporary dimming of vision.
A femtosecond laser or a specialized microkeratome blade is used to cut a thin flap in the corneal epithelium. The flap remains attached on one side and is folded back to expose the inner cornea.
An excimer laser reshapes the deeper corneal tissue to correct refractive errors.
The flap is repositioned, acting as a natural bandage. No stitches are needed as it sets in place and begins healing immediately.

Both eyes can often be treated in less than 30 minutes, and initial vision improvement may be noticeable within hours.

Comparing PRK vs. LASIK: Advantages and Disadvantages

Aspect	PRK	LASIK
Surgical Access	Removes entire epithelial layer	Creates and folds back a flap
Initial Recovery Time	Several days to one month	1–2 days for basic activities
Best for…	Thin corneas, dry eye sufferers, people at risk of trauma	Patients with adequate corneal thickness, most general candidates
Risk of Flap Complications	None (no flap created)	Possible flap-related problems
Postoperative Discomfort	More pain, light sensitivity, blurred vision up to a week	Less discomfort due to flap protection
Cost	Typically less expensive	Generally higher cost (two lasers)

How Long Does Recovery Take?

PRK Recovery

Recovery from PRK typically involves:

Initial discomfort—including tearing, irritation, light sensitivity, and blurred vision—that peaks within the first three days.
Use of a bandage contact lens for about five to seven days while the epithelium heals.
Vision improvement starts after the first week, with crisp, clear vision usually achieved by one month, and full stabilization in three to six months.
Follow-up visits with your ophthalmologist are essential to monitor the healing process and manage any discomfort with medication drops.

LASIK Recovery

Rapid improvement—many patients see well enough to drive and work the next day.
Minor irritation, tearing, or light sensitivity may be present for 24 to 48 hours.
Complete visual results are often achieved within days, with maximum sharpness within a few weeks.
No bandage contact lens is required; the corneal flap naturally reseals.

What Are the Risks and Side Effects?

Both PRK and LASIK are considered safe and effective, with most people achieving 20/25 vision or better. However, risks and potential side effects differ slightly between the two:

Temporary Dry Eye: Both procedures can cause dry eye, though LASIK may have slightly greater risks in this area due to sensations from the corneal flap.
Flap-Related Complications: Only LASIK has a risk of issues such as flap dislocation, infection, or wrinkling.
Light Sensitivity: PRK patients often experience more light sensitivity during early healing.
Halos or Starbursts Around Lights: Both procedures may result in visual phenomena, especially in low-light conditions, but these usually resolve over time.
Rare Vision Loss or Infection: Though uncommon, any surgery carries some risk.

Most side effects improve as the eyes heal, and long-term complications are rare, especially when care is taken in choosing a qualified surgeon and following postoperative instructions carefully.

Long-Term Outcomes: Is One Better Than the Other?

Studies show that PRK and LASIK provide equivalent long-term results in terms of vision correction and satisfaction. After full healing, most patients in both groups see at least 20/25 without glasses or contact lenses, and many reach 20/20. Your choice depends more on:

Cornal thickness and health
Pre-existing dry eye
Risk of eye trauma (PRK has no flap to be dislodged)
Lifestyle needs and readiness for different recovery experiences

Who Is a Good Candidate for Each Procedure?

Best for…	PRK	LASIK
Corneal Thickness	Thin corneas (not enough tissue for a safe flap)	Adequate corneal thickness
Active Lifestyles	Athletes, military, boxing/martial arts (no flap to be displaced)	General population
History of Dry Eye	More suitable due to less reduction in corneal nerves	Potential for increased dry eye symptoms
Previous Eye Surgery	Can be a safer choice	Not usually recommended

Your eye surgeon will perform detailed measurements and a thorough health history to determine the most appropriate procedure for you.

What to Expect Before, During, and After Surgery

Preparing for Surgery

A comprehensive eye exam to measure corneal thickness, shape, and overall health.
A review of your general health history and discussion of medication use.
Instructions to stop wearing contact lenses before your appointment—often one to two weeks in advance.

During the Procedure

You’ll be awake but given numbing eye drops and, if needed, anti-anxiety medication.
The actual laser portion of both procedures takes only minutes per eye.
No pain should be felt during the surgery itself, though sensations of pressure or cool fluid are common.

Post-Surgery Care

You will be prescribed eye drops to prevent infection, manage inflammation, and reduce discomfort.
Avoid rubbing your eyes, engaging in strenuous exercise, or exposing your eyes to dust and water for at least a week.
Attend all follow-up appointments to monitor healing and vision.
Expect to wear sunglasses outdoors for a few months to protect against light sensitivity and UV rays, especially after PRK.

Costs: Which Is More Expensive?

The cost of PRK and LASIK can vary based on your location, the surgeon’s expertise, and the technology used. General trends include:

PRK tends to be slightly less expensive, as it usually requires only one laser and fewer materials.
LASIK costs more due to the additional technology for flap creation and sometimes higher surgeon fees.
Most insurance plans do not cover either procedure as they are considered elective.

Ask your surgeon or surgical center for a detailed price estimate, including pre- and post-operative care.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Which procedure is safer: PRK or LASIK?

Both procedures have excellent safety records when performed by qualified surgeons. PRK eliminates flap-related risks, making it a better choice for patients at increased risk of eye trauma.

How long before I can drive or work after surgery?

LASIK: Many return to regular activities, including driving, within 24 hours.
PRK: May require up to one week before vision is clear enough for these tasks, as healing takes longer.

Is there a difference in pain or discomfort?

PRK generally causes more discomfort in the first week compared to LASIK, though modern medications help manage symptoms in both.

Do results last forever?

Improvements are permanent, but your eyes can still change naturally with age (e.g., presbyopia, cataracts), sometimes requiring glasses later in life.

Summary Table: PRK vs. LASIK At a Glance

Feature	PRK	LASIK
Corneal Access	Surface layer removed	Flap created
Pain/Discomfort	More, lasts up to a week	Less, resolves in a day
Visual Recovery	Slower (weeks to months)	Rapid (hours to days)
Best Candidates	Thin corneas, dry eye, risk of trauma	Good corneal thickness, general population
Flap Complications	No	Yes

When to Consult a Surgeon

If you’re considering laser vision correction, schedule a comprehensive eye exam with a qualified ophthalmologist. They’ll assess your cornea, evaluate your risk factors, discuss your daily needs, and help you choose the best option for your eyes and lifestyle. Remember, both PRK and LASIK offer outstanding results when properly matched to the patient’s needs and performed by experienced hands.

References

Author

Sneha TeteBeauty & Lifestyle Writer

Sneha is a relationships and lifestyle writer with a strong foundation in applied linguistics and certified training in relationship coaching. She brings over five years of writing experience to thebridalbox, crafting thoughtful, research-driven content that empowers readers to build healthier relationships, boost emotional well-being, and embrace holistic living.

Read full bio of Sneha Tete