Description: Information about PRK (PhotoRefractive Keratectomy) in Geneva: indications, procedure, differences compared to LASIK, recovery and risks. A surface laser technique to correct myopia, mild hyperopia and astigmatism, suitable for thin or specific corneas.

What is PRK?

PRK (PhotoRefractive Keratectomy) is a form of surface laser eye surgery. Unlike LASIK, it does not require a corneal flap: the excimer laser is applied directly to the corneal surface after removal of the epithelium.

PRK is used to correct:

• Low to moderate myopia,
• Astigmatism,
• Sometimes mild hyperopia (selected cases).

PRK is often chosen when LASIK is not recommended, especially in thin corneas.

PRK vs LASIK: what’s the difference?

Main differences between PRK and LASIK:

• PRK: no corneal flap, surface treatment, slower healing but preserves more corneal thickness.
• LASIK: flap creation, faster visual recovery, requires a sufficiently thick cornea.

Your ophthalmologist will recommend the safest technique based on your cornea, prescription and lifestyle.

Who is a candidate for PRK?

PRK may be suitable for patients who:

• are over 18–20 years old with a stable prescription,
• have a thin cornea or borderline thickness for LASIK,
• practice contact sports or have a job with a high risk of eye trauma,
• do not have keratoconus or progressive corneal disease.

A thorough preoperative assessment (topography, pachymetry) is essential to confirm suitability.

How is PRK performed?

The PRK procedure involves several steps:

• Local anaesthesia with numbing eye drops,
• Removal of the epithelium (the thin surface layer) manually or with the laser,
• Excimer laser reshaping of the cornea,
• Placement of a bandage contact lens to protect the surface while it heals.

The procedure takes a few minutes per eye and is done on an outpatient basis.

Recovery after PRK

Visual and physical recovery after PRK is slower than with LASIK:

• Pain or discomfort in the first 48–72 hours (burning, tearing, light sensitivity),
• Blurred vision in the first days, then gradual improvement over days to weeks,
• Removal of the bandage lens typically after 3–5 days,
• Anti-inflammatory and lubricating drops for several weeks.

Final visual stabilisation usually takes a few weeks, sometimes several months.

Advantages of PRK

• No corneal flap: more structural integrity,
• Suitable for thin corneas,
• Less risk of flap-related trauma in contact sports or high-risk occupations,
• Long track record with decades of clinical experience.

For some profiles, PRK is the safest long-term option.

Risks and side effects

• More pain or discomfort in the first days,
• Slower visual recovery compared to LASIK,
• Risk of corneal haze in some cases (usually prevented with appropriate treatment),
• Temporary dry eye,
• Possibility of enhancement if a small under- or over-correction remains.

All these aspects are discussed in detail during the preoperative consultation.

PRK consultation in Geneva

During a PRK-focused refractive surgery consultation, your ophthalmologist will:

• assess your prescription and corneal status,
• explain the differences between PRK, LASIK, SMILE and ICL,
• discuss benefits, limitations and risks of PRK,
• answer your questions about pain, recovery and expected results.

The goal is to recommend the safest technique tailored to your profile.

Considering PRK?

If you have a thin cornea, practice contact sports or have been told LASIK is not ideal for you, PRK may be an excellent alternative.

Do not hesitate to book a full PRK assessment at our ophthalmology practice in Geneva.

Contact our ophthalmology practice for a personalised opinion on PRK. Make an appointment at +41 (0) 22 346 26 78 or via our online booking platform.