Trans PRK eye surgery recovery is a gradual process, typically taking about a week for discomfort to subside and several weeks to months for vision to fully stabilise.
While the initial days can be challenging, most people find the healing journey straightforward and rewarding with the right care, patience, and guidance from their eye doctor.
If you’re considering Trans PRK or have recently undergone the procedure, you probably have questions about what to expect during recovery, how to manage discomfort, and when you’ll see your best results. This blog will walk you through each stage of the healing process, offer practical tips, and help set realistic expectations for your vision correction journey.
What Happens Immediately After Trans PRK?
Trans PRK (Transepithelial Photorefractive Keratectomy) is a no-touch laser eye surgery that corrects vision by reshaping the cornea. Unlike LASIK, it doesn’t require creating a flap. Instead, the laser gently removes the cornea’s outer layer (epithelium) and then reshapes the underlying tissue in a single step.
Right after surgery, your eye will be protected with a soft, clear contact lens bandage. This lens acts as a shield, promoting healing and reducing discomfort as the epithelium regrows. The numbing drops used during the procedure keep you comfortable initially, but as they wear off, you may start to feel mild to moderate irritation.
Common Immediate Symptoms
- Gritty, burning, or stinging sensation
- Excessive tearing and mild swelling
- Sensitivity to light and glare
- Blurry or hazy vision
These symptoms are expected and usually peak within the first 48 to 72 hours after surgery.
The First Week: Managing Discomfort and Early Healing
Days 1–3: The Most Challenging Phase
The first three days after Trans PRK are often the toughest. Most patients describe the sensation as having sand or an eyelash in the eye, and vision will be quite blurry. Tearing, light sensitivity, and a general sense of discomfort are common.
How to manage early discomfort?
- Use prescribed pain relievers and lubricating eye drops exactly as directed by your doctor.
- Rest your eyes as much as possible, ideally in a dim or dark room.
- Wear sunglasses indoors if you’re sensitive to light.
- Avoid rubbing or touching your eyes, even if they itch or water.
It’s normal to feel anxious during this period, but remember that these symptoms are temporary and part of the healing process.
Days 4–7: Turning the Corner
By day four or five, most people begin to notice a reduction in discomfort. The corneal surface begins to regenerate during this time, and your doctor typically removes the bandage lens between days four and six. Vision will start to clear, but you may still notice fluctuations, especially in different lighting conditions.
What to expect?
- Less irritation and tearing
- Gradual improvement in vision
- Reduced sensitivity to light
You may still need to use lubricating drops frequently, as the new epithelium is delicate and prone to dryness.
Weeks 2–4: Vision Stabilisation and Ongoing Healing
Ongoing Healing and Vision Fluctuations
After the first week, your eyes continue to heal beneath the surface. Vision sharpens steadily, but it’s common to notice some ups and downs, especially in the morning or after long periods of reading or screen use. Your eyes are still adjusting, and the healing corneal tissue may cause temporary visual disturbances like halos or glare around lights.
Tips for this phase:
- Continue using preservative-free artificial tears to combat dryness.
- Take regular breaks from screens and avoid eye strain.
- Shield your eyes from wind, dust, and bright sunlight by wearing sunglasses when outdoors.
- Avoid swimming pools, saunas, hot tubs, or dusty environments for at least three to four weeks.
Returning to Normal Activities
- Work: Many people return to desk jobs within a week, but visually demanding work may require a bit more time.
- Exercise: Light activities like walking are fine after a few days. Hold off on swimming, contact sports, and heavy lifting for at least 3 to 4 weeks.
- Driving: Only resume driving when your vision is clear and you feel confident behind the wheel, usually after your doctor gives the go-ahead.
Months 1–3: Achieving Your Best Vision
Full Visual Recovery
It can take up to three months for your vision to fully stabilise after Trans PRK. Most patients reach around 80% of their final vision within the first 1 to 2 weeks, though this varies. Visual quality continues to improve over the next few months. During this time, you may still experience mild dryness, glare, or halos—especially at night—but these typically fade as your eyes continue to heal.
What’s normal during this stage?
- Occasional mild dryness or gritty sensation
- Gradual improvement in clarity and sharpness
- Mild night glare or halos, which usually improve over time
Follow-Up Care
Regular follow-up visits are crucial for tracking your recovery and resolving any issues. Your doctor will check your vision, corneal health, and ensure there are no signs of complications. Don’t skip these visits, even if you feel great—early detection of issues is key to a smooth recovery.
Caring for Your Eyes After Trans PRK
Essential Aftercare Steps
- Stick to your medication schedule: Use all prescribed antibiotic and anti-inflammatory drops as directed, even if your eyes feel fine.
- Keep your eyes clean: Avoid makeup, creams, or lotions near your eyes until your doctor says it’s safe.
- Protect from UV light: Always wear sunglasses outdoors to shield your healing eyes from harmful rays and wind.
- Don’t rub your eyes: Rubbing can disrupt healing and increase the risk of complications or infection.
- Stay hydrated: Keep yourself well-hydrated to aid the healing of your body and eyes.
Red Flags: When to Call Your Doctor?
Contact your surgeon immediately if you notice:
- Severe or increasing pain beyond the first few days
- Sudden drop in vision or persistent blurriness
- Persistent redness, swelling, or discharge
- Signs of infection (yellow or green discharge, significant swelling)
Prompt attention to these symptoms can prevent more serious problems and protect your vision.
Trans PRK Recovery Timeline at a Glance
| Timeframe | What to Expect | Key Care Tips |
| Day 1–3 | Moderate discomfort, tearing, blurry vision | Use drops, rest, avoid bright light |
| Day 4–7 | Less pain, vision starts to clear | Continue drops, avoid rubbing |
| Weeks 2–4 | Vision improves, may still fluctuate slightly, mild dryness | Limit screens, protect from UV |
| Months 1–3 | Best vision achieved, rare haze | Regular checkups, stay hydrated |
Your Next Steps for a Smooth Recovery
Trans PRK recovery is a journey, but with patience, proper care, and regular follow-ups, most people achieve excellent vision and long-term satisfaction.
Listen to your body, follow your surgeon’s advice, and don’t hesitate to reach out if you’re unsure about any part of the process. With the right support and a little patience, you’ll soon be enjoying clearer, sharper vision and a renewed sense of visual freedom.
If you’re considering Trans PRK or have questions about your recovery, schedule a consultation with your eye doctor to get personalised advice and reassurance every step of the way.
Frequently Asked Questions About Trans PRK Recovery
How long does it take to see clearly after Trans PRK?
Most people notice noticeable improvement within 7–10 days, but full clarity may take up to 2–3 months. Vision may fluctuate during this time as your eyes heal.
Is Trans PRK recovery more uncomfortable than LASIK?
Yes, the first few days are typically more uncomfortable due to surface healing, but the long-term results are just as good, and there’s no risk of flap complications.
Can I speed up my recovery?
You can’t rush the healing process, but you can support it by following your doctor’s instructions, resting your eyes, using prescribed drops, and protecting your eyes from irritants.
Will I need glasses after Trans PRK?
Most patients achieve freedom from glasses for distance vision, but some may need reading glasses as they age or for certain tasks.
