PRK laser eye surgery in India

PRK was the first widely used laser vision correction method and is still common. The laser removes microscopic layers from the corneal surface. A bandage contact lens protects the eye while new skin grows over.

Because the deeper cornea is left untouched by a flap, PRK keeps more corneal strength. Variants include trans-PRK, where the laser removes the skin as well, without instruments touching the eye.

How this approach differs

PRK and SMILE both avoid a flap, but PRK works on the surface, so early recovery is slower. PRK can treat a wide range of powers and is often used for enhancements. Discomfort in the first days is the main trade-off.

Who needs prk laser eye surgery

• People with thin corneas who are not suitable for LASIK
• People in combat, police or contact sports where flap injury is a concern
• Patients with surface irregularities or previous corneal surgery, as advised
• Short sight, long sight or astigmatism within treatable limits

How it is done

1. Detailed screening including corneal thickness and topography.
2. Numbing drops; the eye is held open.
3. The epithelium is removed with alcohol, a brush or the laser itself.
4. The excimer laser reshapes the surface in seconds.
5. A bandage contact lens is placed.
6. Both eyes may be treated together or on separate days.

Before you travel to India

• Stop contact lenses as instructed before screening
• Plan at least a week in India, as the bandage lens is removed after several days
• Pack sunglasses and avoid scheduling work in the first week

Recovery and flying home

• Discomfort, light sensitivity and watering are common for two to four days.
• Vision is blurry at first and improves over weeks.
• The bandage lens is removed after the surface heals.
• Steroid drops may continue for weeks to reduce haze.
• Protect eyes from strong sun while healing.

Risks

• Pain in the first days
• Corneal haze
• Delayed healing
• Infection
• Under- or over-correction

Alternatives

• LASIK
• SMILE
• ICL
• Glasses or contact lenses

Hospitals in India for prk laser eye surgery

• Medanta - The MedicityDelhi NCR
• Aster MedcityKochi
• Artemis HospitalDelhi NCR
• Aster CMI HospitalBengaluru
• Sir H. N. Reliance Foundation Hospital & Research CentreMumbai
• Apollo Health City, Jubilee HillsHyderabad
• Wockhardt Super Speciality Hospital, Mira RoadMumbai
• Fortis Memorial Research InstituteDelhi NCR

How these hospitals compare

Specialists

• Dr Parul Maheshwari SharmaFortis Memorial Research Institute, Gurugram
• Dr Gopal S PillaiAmrita Hospital (Amrita Institute of Medical Sciences)
• Dr Ajit Babu MajjiYashoda Hospitals, Hitec City
• Dr S A Hussain NaqviYashoda Hospitals, Somajiguda
• Dr Sujithra HAmrita Hospital (Amrita Institute of Medical Sciences)
• Dr Bhanu Prakash MYashoda Hospitals, Hitec City

Frequently asked questions

Medically reviewed by The Curaventa Team. Last updated 2026-10-24. General information, not medical advice. Medical editorial board · Editorial policy · How we get prices