Berkeley Eye Center - Houston LASIK and Eye Care

Berkeley Eye Center - Houston LASIK and Eye Care

SCHEDULE APPOINTMENT
Your Top PRK Questions, Answered
  • Learn about the procedure, recovery timeline, and what to expect
  • Find out how long the vision correction from PRK lasts
  • Get straightforward answers on safety, side effects and More
Schedule A Free Consult PRK Testimonials

PRK Eye Surgery: Frequently Asked Questions

Considering PRK (Photorefractive Keratectomy) in Houston? Making an informed decision about your vision correction is important, and you likely have questions. The experienced team at Berkeley Eye Center has compiled answers to some of the most common questions patients ask about the PRK procedure, recovery, cost, results, and how it compares to LASIK.

Read through the FAQs below. If you have additional questions, please don’t hesitate to schedule your free consultation to discuss them with us directly.

On This Page

About the PRK Procedure

PRK is a laser eye surgery that corrects vision by reshaping the surface of the cornea. First, the thin outer layer (epithelium) is gently removed. Then, an advanced excimer laser, guided by precise measurements (often using Wavefront technology), reshapes the underlying corneal tissue to correct nearsightedness, farsightedness, or astigmatism. A protective bandage contact lens is placed on the eye while the epithelium heals over several days.

The procedure itself is not painful because powerful numbing eye drops are used. You might feel some pressure. During the first few days of recovery, as the epithelium heals, discomfort is common and can range from mild scratchiness to more significant irritation, burning, watering, and light sensitivity. This is managed effectively with prescribed pain medication, lubricating drops, and the bandage contact lens. Most significant discomfort subsides after the first 2-4 days.

Similar to LASIK, the actual laser treatment time is very quick, usually less than a minute per eye. The entire process in the laser suite, including preparation and epithelium removal, takes slightly longer than LASIK but is still typically completed efficiently. Expect to be at the surgery center for a couple of hours total on the day of the procedure.

Recovery & Results

PRK recovery is longer initially than LASIK due to epithelial healing.
* Initial Healing/Discomfort: First 3-5 days.
* Functional Vision/Driving: Often around 1 week (varies).
* Vision Stabilization: Continues improving over weeks; final, stable sharpest vision can take 3-6 months.
* Following your post-op instructions and drop schedule is crucial.

Most patients can resume driving about one week after PRK, but this depends entirely on when your vision clears sufficiently for you to feel safe and comfortable driving, both day and night. Always follow your surgeon’s specific advice and legal requirements.

Yes, like LASIK, PRK permanently reshapes the cornea. The vision correction achieved is generally stable and long-lasting. However, PRK does not prevent natural age-related changes like presbyopia (requiring reading glasses after 40) or cataracts.

PRK has a very high success rate, comparable to LASIK when performed on appropriate candidates by experienced surgeons using modern technology. The vast majority of patients achieve significantly improved vision, often 20/20 or better, and are highly satisfied with their results reducing or eliminating their need for glasses/contacts.

Safety, Risks & Side Effects

PRK is considered a very safe and effective procedure with decades of clinical use. Because it avoids creating a corneal flap, it eliminates any potential flap-related complications associated with LASIK. However, all surgery carries potential risks, although serious complications with PRK are rare. Potential risks/side effects include:
* Initial discomfort during healing (more than LASIK).
* Longer visual recovery period initially.
* Risk of infection (minimized with antibiotic drops).
* Corneal haze (usually temporary and mild with modern techniques/drops, but can rarely be more significant).
* Temporary dry eye symptoms.
* Night vision issues (glare/halos, usually temporary).
* Under/overcorrection (may require enhancement).
* Your surgeon will discuss risks thoroughly during your consultation.

Common temporary side effects during the initial recovery include light sensitivity, watery eyes, scratchy/burning sensation, fluctuating/blurry vision, and potential night glare/halos. These typically improve significantly after the first week and continue to diminish as the eye fully heals over subsequent months. Dry eye can also occur temporarily.

Cost & Insurance

The cost of PRK at Berkeley Eye Center is generally comparable to our cost for LASIK. We prioritize value, incorporating advanced technology and experienced surgeons into our pricing. A personalized quote is provided after your free consultation.

Like LASIK, PRK is typically considered an elective procedure by most medical and vision insurance plans and is usually not a covered benefit. However, some vision plans might offer a member discount. You can also use funds from your FSA or HSA to pay for PRK with pre-tax dollars.

PRK vs. LASIK

The core difference is the corneal flap. LASIK creates a flap to access underlying tissue for laser treatment. PRK treats the corneal surface directly after removing the thin outer layer (epithelium), avoiding a flap altogether. This primarily affects the initial recovery time and comfort level.

Neither is universally “better.” The best procedure depends on your individual eye health (especially corneal thickness), prescription, lifestyle, and recovery preferences. Both offer excellent long-term visual outcomes when performed appropriately. PRK is often preferred for thinner corneas or specific professions. LASIK offers faster recovery.

PRK recovery

Have Additional Questions About PRK?

Our knowledgeable team is here to help. Schedule a free, no-obligation consultation to discuss PRK and other vision correction options.

Schedule A Free Vision Correction Consult

Explore PRK Further

  • What Is PRK?

    Go beyond the Q&A for a comprehensive look at the PRK procedure, including the step-by-step process and the benefits of this flap-free technique.

  • PRK Candidacy

    Learn about the specific factors — from corneal thickness to your daily activities — that determine if you are a great candidate for PRK.

  • PRK vs. LASIK

    See a direct, side-by-side comparison of the two leading laser procedures and understand why one might be recommended over the other for your eyes.

  • PRK Recovery Details

    Understand the PRK healing process day-by-day. Get a detailed timeline of what to expect as your vision stabilizes and clears in the weeks after your procedure.