Does PRK avoid dry eye?

PRK works slightly different from lasik. Both procedures actually use the same laser (which is why both work very well to correct vision), but lasik uses an additional laser to create the lasik flap. The lasik flap allows lasik to have a quicker recovery. PRK instead treats directly from the surface of the eye.

The short term dry eye after laser eye surgery is caused by the interruption of nerves within the cornea. So because the lasik flap affects more of the cornea then PRK, does that mean that PRK avoids having dry eye afterwards?

In short, the answer unfortunately is no. You won’t be able to eliminate dry eye by choosing to get PRK done. Yes, PRK does affect less of the cornea than lasik for an equal prescription, but patients who undergo PRK will still have short term dry eye afterwards. Concern over dry eye isn't a good reason to opt for PRK over lasik.

It's actually quite a complex process as to why PRK patients still have dry eye. But at the end of the day, dry eye is related to inflammation on the eye. And despite the fact that PRK affects less of the cornea, these patients can have a little more inflammation on the eye related to the healing process afterwards. This inflammation can cause the tear film to dry out a little more and irritate the nerves in the cornea a little bit more.

But just as how the dryness after lasik can be managed quite well until it heals up, the same can be done for PRK. That way you can get to the cool parts of enjoying your vision quicker!

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