PRK (photorefractive keratectomy) is a type of laser eye surgery that has been used for decades to improve vision. Many people achieve long-lasting results after just one treatment, but a common question patients ask is whether PRK can be repeated if vision changes over time. The answer depends on several factors, including the health of your eyes and the thickness of your cornea. Let’s walk through what you need to know.
Can PRK Be Repeated?
Yes, in certain cases, PRK can be performed more than once. A second procedure is sometimes called an enhancement. The purpose of an enhancement is to fine-tune your results if your vision did not stabilize exactly where you hoped or if changes developed years after your initial surgery.
That said, not every patient is a candidate for a repeat procedure. Your doctor will need to carefully evaluate the condition of your cornea, your current prescription, and the stability of your vision before recommending another treatment.
Why Would Someone Need PRK Twice?
There are a few reasons why a patient might consider undergoing PRK again:
- Residual vision issues – Some people may notice that their eyesight did not fully reach the sharpness they expected after their first procedure.
- Natural changes in vision over time – Even with successful laser surgery, vision can shift as you age.
- Special visual needs – Certain occupations or lifestyles may make patients more sensitive to small imperfections, leading them to seek additional improvement.
How Doctors Decide If You Are a Candidate
Before repeating PRK, your eye doctor will conduct a series of evaluations. These often include:
- Corneal thickness measurement – Enough corneal tissue must remain for a safe second procedure.
- Detailed eye exam – To rule out other eye conditions that could interfere with healing.
- Stability check – Your prescription should remain steady for at least a year before considering another surgery.
If your eyes meet these conditions, your doctor may recommend a second PRK treatment.
What Happens During a Second PRK Procedure?
The process for a second PRK surgery is very similar to the first. Your doctor will carefully prepare the eye, apply the laser to reshape the cornea, and place a temporary protective lens. The main difference is that your eye has already undergone surgery once, so the healing experience can feel slightly different.
Most patients find the recovery time to be manageable. Some may notice clearer vision within days, while others need several weeks for their eyesight to fully stabilize. Your doctor will guide you through the recovery process and give you clear instructions on care.
Are Results From a Second PRK Reliable?
For many patients, a second PRK procedure can provide satisfying results. Improvements are usually significant enough to make daily activities more comfortable without heavy dependence on glasses or contact lenses.
However, the exact outcome varies. A repeat procedure is not guaranteed to deliver perfect vision, but it often brings meaningful improvement. Your doctor will discuss realistic expectations with you before scheduling the surgery.
Risks of Having PRK Twice
Every surgical procedure carries some level of risk, and repeating PRK is no different. Potential concerns include delayed healing, sensitivity to light, or mild visual disturbances during recovery. These effects often improve with time and follow-up care.
Your doctor will weigh the benefits against the possible downsides before recommending another procedure. The decision is always personalized to your eyes and overall health.
How Long Should You Wait Before a Second PRK?
Patience is key. Most doctors recommend waiting at least 6 months after your initial surgery before considering a repeat procedure. This waiting period gives your eyes enough time to heal and stabilize. Jumping into a second surgery too soon could affect healing and make results less predictable.
Alternatives: If a Second PRK Is Not Recommended
If your doctor decides that repeating PRK is not the best option, there are still ways to improve your vision. Alternatives may include:
- Glasses or contact lenses – A safe and simple way to sharpen vision without surgery.
- Other types of laser surgery – Depending on your eye health, another procedure might be more suitable.
- Lens-based treatments – In some cases, your doctor may discuss surgical options that involve placing a lens inside the eye.
These alternatives can help achieve the visual clarity you want, even if another PRK procedure isn’t right for you.
Questions to Ask Your Doctor
If you’re wondering whether PRK can be repeated in your case, consider asking your doctor these questions:
- Is my cornea thick enough for another procedure?
- How stable is my current vision?
- What kind of results should I realistically expect?
- Are there other treatments that may work better for me?
- How long will the recovery be after a second PRK?
Bringing a list of questions to your consultation will help you feel more confident about your options.
PRK can be performed twice for some patients, but it is not suitable for everyone. The decision depends on your eye health, corneal thickness, and the stability of your vision. While many people see meaningful improvement after a second procedure, your doctor is the best source of guidance on whether this is right for you.
Ready to take the next step toward a clearer vision? Schedule a consultation with SuraVision today to discuss your options and learn more about PRK Surgery. Call us at 713-730-2020 or book your appointment online!