PRK in Seoul: the original surface laser
PRK was the first laser vision correction procedure and remains an excellent option for certain corneas and occupations. It needs no flap and no incision, and preserves the strength of the cornea.
How PRK works
In PRK the outer corneal layer is removed and the excimer laser reshapes the surface directly beneath. A bandage contact lens protects the eye while a new surface layer grows over several days.
PRK leaves the deeper cornea untouched by any flap, which is why it is accepted by many armed forces and recommended when the cornea is thin or slightly irregular on the surface.
Recovery takes longer than LASIK or SMILE, but long-term outcomes are comparable for good candidates.
Who PRK suits
Your 50+ test examination decides. These are the general patterns surgeons look for.
Often a good fit
- Thinner corneas
- Occupations with eye-impact risk
- Low to moderate myopia and astigmatism
- Surface irregularities your surgeon recommends treating
- Patients unsuitable for flap-based surgery
May point to another option
- Need to return to work in a day or two
- High prescriptions better treated with ICL
- Keratoconus
- Conditions that slow wound healing
- Pregnancy or breastfeeding
Surgery day
- Plan review Settings confirmed from your exam.
- Numbing drops Eye drops only.
- Surface removal The epithelium is gently removed.
- Laser Excimer reshaping in seconds.
- Bandage lens A protective lens is placed for healing.
Recovery after PRK
| When | What to expect |
|---|---|
| Days 1–3 | Most discomfort occurs here; use drops and rest. |
| Days 4–5 | Bandage lens removed once healed. |
| Week 1 | Functional daily vision. |
| Month 1 | Clarity continues to improve. |
| Months 3–6 | Stable final result. |
Typical experience only. Your surgeon gives personal instructions after surgery.
Other procedures
SMILE Pro
The newest generation of SMILE on the VisuMax 800.
Learn about SMILE Pro → Flapless · laserSMILE LASIK
Small-incision correction with no corneal flap.
Learn about SMILE LASIK → Flap · laserLASIK
Proven laser correction with very fast recovery.
Learn about LASIK → Surface · laserLASEK
Surface treatment that preserves corneal tissue.
Learn about LASEK →Common questions
Why choose PRK over LASIK?
PRK suits thinner corneas and jobs with impact risk because there is no flap that could be displaced.
How long until I can drive?
Usually around a week, once your surgeon confirms your vision meets driving standards.
Is PRK permanent?
The corneal reshaping is permanent; natural age-related eye changes can still occur.
Do I need to stay in Korea longer for PRK?
Plan at least a week for healing and bandage lens removal.
Find out which procedure fits your eyes
Send your prescription and travel dates. A coordinator replies in English and books your 50+ test examination with a board-certified surgeon.
