PRK Eye Surgery Recovery Tips

If you’re interested in better vision but aren’t a candidate for LASIK, then PRK eye surgery may be a good choice for you. PRK is a trusted, safe, and effective LASIK alternative.

It takes longer to recover from PRK than from LASIK. Healing is slower and vision may take a month or more to stabilize. However, most patients find the process tolerable and worth the impressive benefits. Keep reading for tips that can help everything go smoothly.

Recovery Guidelines After PRK Vision Correction

The most important thing you can do after PRK is to follow our eye doctors’ instructions. These instructions are in place to minimize the risk of complications and ensure optimal results.

Here are some additional things to keep in mind during recovery:

• Take time off work: After your PRK eye surgery, you should expect to be out of work for at least a week to allow your eyes to heal properly.
• Limit screen time: You will not be able to focus comfortably on screens during the initial part of your recovery. It could cause significant eye strain and delays in healing, particularly if you try to look at a computer all day.
• Use numbing drops as necessary: There should not be much pain after PRK, but we will prescribe you numbing eye drops for any pain you may experience.
• Administer artificial tears frequently: It’s important to use artificial drops to combat dry eye and keep your eyes lubricated. Our surgeons will give you detailed instructions on how often to use your prescribed eye drops.
• Keep your eyes protected: You should shower below the head in order to keep water from getting in your eyes. We will also give you eye shields to wear while sleeping.
• Come to your follow-up appointments: It’s crucial to attend all of your follow-up appointments. We will check your eyes, answer any questions you have, and make sure that you are healing well.

Schedule Your PRK Consultation

If you want to improve your vision and reduce your dependency on corrective lenses, call Kirk Eye Center today to schedule your consultation. We will evaluate your eyes and let you know if you are a candidate for LASIK or PRK. Our family-owned practice serves patients in River Forest, Gurnee, and other nearby areas of Chicago.