LASEK/PRK
Warsaw · Krakow · Vienna · Zurich
Photorefractive keratectomy (PRK) is a surgical procedure performed since 1987, recognized as one of the older methods of refractive laser surgery.
The procedure itself involves removing the upper cellular layer of the cornea (epithelium) and then appropriately reshaping the underlying corneal tissue using an excimer laser.
The procedures are effective and safe, and most importantly, they guarantee patients significant vision improvement.
Procedure Course
Initially, the face is cleansed with an antiseptic solution. The patient receives a local anesthetic in the form of eye drops. The eyelids are painlessly immobilized with a speculum. Throughout the entire operation, the patient looks at a flashing light above. In the first stage, the upper cellular layer of the cornea (epithelium) is manually removed.
Next, the surgeon uses a highly precise laser beam to remove a thin layer from the corneal surface. The laser models and shapes the existing corneal tissue to change the corneal curvature and correct vision defects. The patient does not experience pain – the only sensation may be the sound of the laser. The entire procedure is constantly monitored by the surgeon, who supervises the laser’s use through a microscope.
During the final stage of the LASEK/PRK procedure, soft, bandage contact lenses are inserted to protect the eyes after surgery. The protective lenses are removed by the surgeon after 2-4 days.
Preparation
Before starting the procedure, the patient’s facial area is thoroughly disinfected. The patient then receives anesthetic eye drops, and their eyelids are immobilized with speculums for the duration of the procedure. All of this is completely painless. During the procedure, the patient is asked to look at a flashing light above.
Epithelium Exposure
In the first phase of the procedure, the surgeon manually removes the upper cellular layer of the cornea, i.e., the epithelium. In newer generation procedures (e.g., LASIK or Femto-LASIK), the epithelium is only folded back, not completely removed.
Excimer Laser Correction
The next stage of the LASEK-PRK method involves using a highly precise laser beam to model and appropriately shape the cornea to eliminate vision defects.
Eye Protection After the Procedure
The final phase of laser vision correction is to protect the eyes with soft contact lenses that have high oxygen permeability. These are removed by the surgeon after 2-4 days.
LASEK and PRK – in brief
PRK and LASEK are surface methods: the excimer laser models the cornea directly beneath the epithelium, without a flap and without penetrating deep. They differ in the method of epithelium removal – in PRK it is removed after softening with alcohol, in LASEK it is lifted and repositioned. At SwissLaser, we perform surface methods primarily as no-touch Trans-PRK smart surFace, in which the laser itself removes the epithelium: lowest infection risk and smoothest surface. LASEK, PRK and EBK remain solutions for special situations determined during qualification.
- For whom: thin cornea, risk of eye injury (contact sports, services), recurrent epithelial erosions
- Epithelial healing: 3–4 days with bandage lens; comfortable vision after 5–7 days, full stabilization over several weeks
- Medical leave: 5–7 days
- Price: Trans-PRK 10,000 PLN per pair of eyes; LASEK/PRK according to surface procedure price list, after qualification (400 PLN)
- Warranty: up to 5 years
- Where: Warsaw and Krakow, same surgeon
PRK, LASEK, EBK and Trans-PRK – how they differ
| PRK | LASEK | EBK | Trans-PRK | |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Epithelium removal | after softening with alcohol | lifted after softening with alcohol | Epi-Clear blade, no alcohol | laser, no-touch |
| Instrument contact with eye | yes | yes | yes | no |
| Epithelial regeneration | 3–4 days | 3–4 days | faster than PRK/LASEK | 3–4 days |
| Infection risk | low | low | low | lowest |
| Price for Both Eyes | per price list | per price list | per price list | PLN 10,000 |
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Important Information
The difference between individual treatment methods lies in the way the epithelium is removed:
PRK – the epithelium is completely removed after being softened with an alcohol solution.
LASEK – the epithelium is gently pushed aside before the laser procedure. After laser vision correction, an attempt is made to reposition the epithelium – this is not always possible.
Epi-LASIK – epithelial cells are detached from the underlying corneal tissue using a mechanical microkeratome, allowing them to be repositioned after the procedure.
No-Touch-PRK – the epithelium is removed by an excimer laser beam before the actual correction, which minimizes the risk of infection. This is the most precise method of surface laser vision correction.
EBK – the epithelium is precisely removed with an Epi-Clear knife.
Recovery after LASEK/PRK procedure
After the operation, the patient notices improved vision, but the eyes should remain protected for the rest of the day. Cell regeneration after surgery occurs within the first 2-3 days and may cause severe pain because the upper layer of the cornea is removed. Pain can be relieved with painkillers. It should be noted that the quality of vision may still change in the first weeks and months after the procedure.
Is laser vision correction painful?
What influences the choice of the appropriate procedure for our patients?
We are a Schwind
Reference Center
SwissLaser is the laser reference center for Schwind. We are laser vision correction experts with international experience. We use modern, certified technologies that effectively free you from glasses.
Our SwissLaser clinic collaborates intensively with Schwind on scientific research. Dr.
Victor Derhartunian trains physicians worldwide in laser vision correction
using highly advanced SCHWIND eye-tech-solutions devices.
European standard of treatment
The establishment of SwissLaser marks Dr. Victor Derhartunian’s return to his Polish roots – bringing European knowledge, experience, quality, and renowned Swiss precision to our country, so that every patient in need of vision correction receives the best in terms of technology, expertise, and care.
Our priority is the continuous deepening of knowledge in the field of refractive surgery, lens and laser operations, so that Polish patients can receive treatment at the highest level.
Dr. Victor Derhartunian received the Patients’ Choice Award from 2013–2025.
Schedule a non-binding appointment and consultation to learn how we can improve your vision.
How much do LASEK/PRK procedures cost?
We perform surface procedures primarily in the modern no-touch Trans-PRK smart surFace variant: 10,000 PLN per pair of eyes (5,500 PLN per eye). The final method and price are determined by the qualification examination (400 PLN).
- 2 check-ups within the first month included in the package
- installment payment option (Santander Consumer Bank)
- qualification examination: 400 zł
How the LASEK/PRK procedure works – step by step
- Qualification examination (approx. 90 minutes): corneal diagnostics (thickness, topography) and method selection.
- Procedure day: topical anesthesia; epithelium removal and excimer laser correction – without creating a flap.
- Protection: soft bandage contact lens protects the healing epithelium.
- After the procedure: return home with an accompanying person; the lens is removed by the doctor at a follow-up visit after a few days.
Recovery Day by Day
- Days 1–3: epithelial regeneration – possible discomfort and pain, effectively relieved with drops and pain medication.
- Days 3–7: bandage lens removal; return to daily functioning.
- First month: vision clearly improves; 2 check-ups included in the package.
- 3–4 months: full effect stabilization – this is normal for surface methods.
Safety and Possible Side Effects – Honestly
Surface methods do not create a corneal flap – thus eliminating associated risks and are safe even for physically active individuals. Honestly, however: the first 2–3 days after the procedure can be painful (epithelial healing), and some patients temporarily experience vision haze or dry eye. Full sharpness stabilizes within 3–4 months. We discuss individual risks during the qualification examination.
Expert Commentary
“PRK has been performed since 1987 – it’s the longest-proven laser method in the world. Today we use it for selected indications, most often in the modernized, no-touch Trans-PRK form.”
Dr. med. Victor Derhartunian, FEBO, FWCRS – refractive surgeon, over 25,000 laser procedures
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
What is the PRK procedure?
Photorefractive keratectomy (PRK) is a surgical procedure performed since 1987, recognized as one of the older methods of refractive laser surgery. It involves removing the upper cellular layer of the cornea (epithelium), and then reshaping the underlying corneal tissue with an excimer laser. The procedures are effective and safe, and patients achieve significant vision improvement.
How does PRK differ from LASEK?
The difference lies in how the corneal epithelium is handled. In PRK, the epithelium is completely removed after being softened with an alcohol solution, whereas in LASEK the epithelium is lifted to the side, and after laser correction an attempt is made to reposition it – which is not always possible. There are also related variants, such as Epi-LASIK, No-Touch-PRK or EBK, differing in corneal preparation technique.
Does the LASEK/PRK procedure hurt?
The procedure itself is painless – the patient receives anesthetic eye drops, and the eyelids are painlessly immobilized with speculums; during laser operation only its sound is audible. Pain may appear after the procedure, during the cell regeneration period lasting the first 2-3 days, because the upper corneal layer has been removed. Discomfort can be effectively relieved with pain medication.
How long are bandage lenses worn after LASEK/PRK?
At the end of the procedure, soft bandage contact lenses with high oxygen permeability are placed to protect the eyes after surgery. The surgeon removes them after 2-4 days. It’s worth remembering that vision quality may still change in the first weeks and months after the procedure, so follow-up visits are important.
For whom are LASEK/PRK surface methods suitable?
Surface methods are chosen, among other reasons, when corneal structure – for example, a cornea that is too thin – constitutes a contraindication to flap methods like LASIK. Qualification is always determined by the doctor after a detailed preliminary examination, assessing eye parameters and defect stability. During consultation, the correction technique best suited to the specific vision defect is proposed.
How much does surface laser vision correction cost?
At SwissLaser, surface procedures are performed primarily in the modern, no-touch Trans-PRK smart surFace variant, whose price according to the official price list is 10,000 PLN for both eyes (5,500 PLN for one eye). The qualification examination costs 400 PLN. Installment payment is possible through Santander Consumer Bank; the NFZ does not reimburse laser vision correction.
Do LASEK and PRK give the same result as FemtoLASIK?
With the same vision defect, the target sharpness is comparable – the excimer laser models the cornea the same way. The difference concerns the path to the result: after FemtoLASIK you see clearly the next day, after surface methods sharpness returns gradually over 7–10 days, and stabilizes within several weeks.
Is PRK an outdated method?
No – it’s the longest-proven laser method, performed since 1987. Today we use it in the modernized Trans-PRK smart surFace variant, in which the laser removes the epithelium, not alcohol or an instrument. The principle remains the same, comfort and precision are higher.
How much does it hurt after PRK or LASEK and for how long?
The procedure itself is painless. During the first 2–3 days, until epithelial regeneration, tearing, photophobia and burning occur – we relieve them with a bandage lens, drops and pain medication. We issue medical leave for 5–7 days.
When will I see clearly after PRK?
Functional vision, allowing for work and driving, is usually achieved after 7–10 days. Final vision quality stabilizes over several weeks to months. This is the main difference from FemtoLASIK, after which the effect is visible the next day.
Is there a risk of corneal haze after PRK?
The risk is now low: smooth ablation profile, medications administered during the procedure, steroid drops for several weeks and UV protection (sunglasses outdoors for several months) effectively prevent it.
When is a surface method better than FemtoLASIK?
With a thin cornea – surface methods conserve tissue. With risk of eye injury – there is no flap that could be displaced. With recurrent epithelial erosions – a surface procedure can simultaneously be a treatment. The choice is determined by the qualification examination.
Content fact-checked by Dr. med. univ. (Vienna) Victor Derhartunian, FEBO, FWCRS – a specialist in refractive surgery. Last verified: October 2, 2026.
For the curious: PRK and LASEK are surface methods: in PRK the epithelium is removed mechanically, in LASEK it is loosened with an alcohol solution and after ablation the epithelium returns as a flap; Trans-PRK removes the epithelium with a laser. Epithelial healing takes 3–5 days, sharpness stabilizes within a few weeks; the risk of ectasia is lower than after flap procedures, because the stroma remains intact in the deeper layers. ICD-10 indications: H52.0–H52.2.
Sources
- Shortt AJ, Allan BDS, Evans JR. Laser-assisted in-situ keratomileusis (LASIK) versus photorefractive keratectomy (PRK) for myopia. Cochrane Database Syst Rev 2013;1:CD005135. doi:10.1002/14651858.CD005135.pub3
- Adib-Moghaddam S, Soleyman-Jahi S, Sanjari Moghaddam A et al. Efficacy and safety of transepithelial photorefractive keratectomy. J Cataract Refract Surg 2018;44(10):1267–1279. doi:10.1016/j.jcrs.2018.07.021
- Kim TI, Alió Del Barrio JL, Wilkins M, Cochener B, Ang M. Refractive surgery. Lancet 2019;393(10185):2085–2098. doi:10.1016/S0140-6736(18)33209-4
- Chuck RS, Jacobs DS, Lee JK et al. Refractive Errors & Refractive Surgery Preferred Practice Pattern. Ophthalmology 2018;125(1):P1–P104. doi:10.1016/j.ophtha.2017.10.003
