No flap. The surface layer is removed and regrows, which changes everything about the first two weeks.
PRK is not the budget version of LASIK, whatever the sequencing on a price list implies. It is a different route to the same reshaping, taken without creating a flap. Because no flap is made, less corneal tissue is committed, which is exactly why a surgeon may recommend it to someone whose measurements make LASIK a stretch.
The trade is the recovery. The surface layer that was removed has to regrow, and until it does there is real discomfort and blurry, fluctuating vision. Surgeons describe this in days to weeks rather than hours, with vision continuing to settle for a good while after that. Plan the time off honestly, and ask specifically how long you should expect to be unable to drive.
For police officers, firefighters, military personnel, climbers and anyone else who takes hits to the face as a normal part of life, the absence of a flap is the entire point. If that describes you, say so at the evaluation. It should change the conversation.
Tell us what you are considering and we will match you with a practice that will measure your eyes and give you a straight answer.
Request a ReferralA rough idea is plenty — we will follow up to match you with a practice.