Surgical Co-Management · Refractive
PRK Co-Management surface ablation and a longer post-op role.
Photorefractive keratectomy treats the corneal surface with an excimer laser and no flap. Healing takes days rather than hours, so the co-managing doctor sees more of the recovery, from the bandage contact lens to the haze-prevention taper.
Quick answer
No flap, more follow-up.
Because PRK leaves more stroma untouched, surgeons may favor it for thin or unusually shaped corneas and for patients who worry about flap trauma. The trade is a slower start: discomfort peaks around days 2 and 3, and vision keeps improving for weeks. That puts the co-managing practice at the center of the recovery.
Key takeaways
- A bandage contact lens protects the eye while the epithelium regrows.
- Symptoms are usually worst on days 2 to 3 and ease by days 4 to 5.
- Patients should not drive for the first 3 days.
- Steroid drops may run up to 4 months to limit haze.
- Enhancements are considered once refraction stabilizes.
The post-op course at a glance.
Typical milestones described by the American Academy of Ophthalmology EyeWiki.
| Timeframe | What to expect | Co-managing focus |
|---|---|---|
| Days 1–3 | Discomfort, tearing, light sensitivity and blur | Pain control, bandage lens fit, infection watch |
| Days 4–5 | Epithelial ridge forms; bandage lens comes out | Remove lens, confirm closure |
| Weeks 1–6 | Vision keeps improving; often 20/30 to 20/50 at lens removal | Steroid taper, surface care |
| Months 3–6 | Correction usually stable | Final refraction; enhancement discussion if needed |
Why a surgeon may choose PRK.
EyeWiki lists these advantages over LASIK.
- Thin corneas
- Irregular shapes
- Trauma risk
-
More tissue preserved
No flap means more of the cornea is left untouched.
-
Unusual corneal shape
The extra margin may matter for atypical corneas.
-
No flap to dislodge
Eye trauma carries less flap-related risk.
-
Corneal nerves
PRK may restore corneal nerve function faster than LASIK, which can mean less dryness later.
Give PRK patients a day-by-day sheet. Telling them in advance that days 2 and 3 are usually the worst cuts down on urgent calls.
RescueLink
Dry eye before and after laser vision correction.
LASIK tends to aggravate dry eye, and severe cases can persist. When the surgeon clears it, send patients an eligible over-the-counter list of preservative-free drops, lid care and night protection through RescueLink. Your practice earns a 15% participation credit on eligible OTC orders on VisionRescue.com.
- No setup fee, subscription or quota
- One-tap ordering for the patient
- Optional auto-ship on recurring items
- Contact lenses and prescription products are excluded
Frequently asked questions
What medications follow PRK?
EyeWiki describes lubricating drops for comfort, medicated drops to aid healing and limit infection and scarring, and steroid drops for up to 4 months to reduce haze.
When can patients drive or work?
Not during the first 3 days; many return to driving and work within 3 to 6 days.
Is haze common?
Mild haze is common and usually not noticeable; steroid drops help limit it.
When is an enhancement considered?
Once the correction stabilizes, usually at 3 to 6 months.
References
- American Academy of Ophthalmology EyeWiki. Photorefractive keratectomy. EyeWiki
- FDA. When is LASIK not for me? FDA
- Every source behind this guide is listed on the Vision Rescue sources page. All sources
About this guide
Written for licensed eye care practices by the Vision Rescue team from manufacturer, FDA, CMS and peer-reviewed sources. Questions: providers@visionrescue.com or 1-855-692-8024.
Important notes and disclosures
Information only. Candidacy, technique and outcomes are decided by the operating surgeon. Refractive surgery fees and co-management arrangements must follow federal and state law. Vision Rescue is a licensed pharmaceutical wholesale distributor.
Own the recovery.
PRK patients spend more of their healing with the co-managing doctor. A clear plan and a reachable office make the difference.
Clinical details summarize published references. The operating surgeon sets the post-operative regimen.