# How Long Does Blurred Vision Last After PRK?

Source page: https://www.kudretgozistanbul.com/en/blog/eye-diseases/how-long-does-blurred-vision-last-after-prk

**Author:** Kudret Eye İstanbul | **Medical Approval:** Op. Dr. Mehmet Ali Özdil | **Date:** 2026-09-05

> **Summary:** Blurred vision is normal for the first three to five days after PRK, and full clarity takes two to four weeks. PRK (photorefractive keratectomy) is a surface laser that removes the corneal epithelium, and vision stays blurred until that layer grows back; the blurring is temporary.

## Quick Facts
- **Blurred vision:** First three to five days
- **Full clarity:** Two to four weeks
- **Early discomfort:** Mild pain, burning and stinging for a few days
- **Water:** No shower for the first 24 hours; no pools or sea for about 20 days
- **Drops:** Generally 3-6 months; cortisone drops about 1 month
- **Minimum age:** Eighteen

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## Why Vision Is Blurred After PRK
In PRK and LASEK there is no incision and no flap: the surface layer of the cornea (epithelium) is removed or loosened before the laser is applied. Vision is blurred until the epithelium grows back. It is not permanent; prescribed medication and drops should be used regularly.

## Common Symptoms After PRK
- Dry eye for a period
- Burning, stinging and itching
- Watering, stinging and burning for a few hours on the first day
- Possible headache: use painkillers that do not thin the blood, under a doctor's guidance

See a doctor for symptoms other than itching, burning, stinging, dry eye and watering, or if symptoms are severe.

## Recovery Tips
- In the first days, avoid electronic devices, long reading, driving and direct sunlight.
- Avoid dusty surroundings; never rub or touch the eye.
- No shower for the first 24 hours; for the first week keep water, soap and shampoo out of the eyes; avoid pools and the sea for about 20 days.
- Wear protective glasses for a few weeks.
- No eye make-up for a week; light make-up afterwards, but avoid eyeliner and mascara for a while.
- Use the prescribed drops regularly to lower infection risk and prevent dry eye: generally for 3-6 months, with cortisone drops for about 1 month; amount and duration depend on the person.
- Daily life can be resumed in the days after the operation.
- Attend regular check-ups.

## Who Is PRK For?
PRK treats myopia, hyperopia and astigmatism. Conditions:
- Aged eighteen or over, with eyes that have finished developing and suitable for laser on examination.
- Not pregnant or breastfeeding.
- For corneas too thin for flap methods, PRK and No Touch laser are often a suitable option since they create no flap; suitability is set by measuring corneal thickness.
- No keratoconus.
- No glaucoma or similar eye conditions.
- Not recommended with systemic conditions.

## Advantages
No incision, no flap and no suction ring; only the epithelium is removed. No pain during the procedure, although mild pain or stinging is common for a few days afterwards.

## Prices
Prices vary with circumstances and the surgeon's experience, in state institutions and private hospitals alike; the clinic should be asked for a price after examination. No specific price is given.

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## Frequently Asked Questions

**Q: Is blurred vision after PRK permanent?**
A: No, it is generally temporary and settles as recovery progresses.

**Q: When will I see clearly after PRK?**
A: Vision is blurred for the first three to five days; full clarity comes in two to four weeks.

**Q: Is pain after PRK normal?**
A: Mild to moderate pain, burning and stinging in the first few days is normal and temporary.

**Q: Can I use a phone and computer after PRK?**
A: Limit them as far as possible in the first days; short periods with breaks are fine.

**Q: Is PRK suitable for everyone?**
A: No, suitability is decided after a detailed eye examination.