Does Your Night Vision Change After PRK or LASIK Eye Surgery?

PRK (photorefractive keratectomy) and LASIK (laser-assisted in situ keratomileusis) are both used to correct common vision problems like nearsightedness, farsightedness, and astigmatism. While there is a misconception that surgery permanently changes night vision, your eyesight should return to normal after recovery.

Do you have questions about PRK or Nashville LASIK surgery? Eye surgeon Dr. Ming Wang is a Harvard and MIT graduate with a doctorate degree in laser physics. Now, you can learn about PRK and LASIK directly from an experienced team member at Wang Vision Institute. Call to learn about our vision services and schedule a consultation for laser eye surgery.

What is involved with PRK and LASIK?

During PRK, Dr. Wang removes the epithelium (the barrier that protects the cornea) to correct the curve of the underlying tissue. This is what improves your vision. We then place a protective contact lens while the natural epithelium grows back.

LASIK, on the other hand, involves using a cutting-edge laser to create a small corneal flap. The flap is folded upward while we recontour the corneal tissue. After surgery, the flap is carefully put back in place so it can self-heal.

PRK is a suitable surgery for patients with eye diseases that make them ineligible for LASIK. It's also an alternative for people with a higher potential for eye trauma due to extreme job conditions or a highly active lifestyle. LASIK is the more well-known of the two and is appropriate for any healthy adult who meets the eligibility requirements.

How soon after PRK/LASIK will I be able to see again?

Dr. Wang has performed over 55,000 laser eye surgeries during his career, including on over 4,000 doctors. During an eye assessment for PRK or Nashville LASIK surgery, we will choose the right method of vision correction for you based on your needs and treatment preferences. We then review the anticipated results, risks and complications, and recovery time involved.

Here's what you can generally expect with recovery:

• PRK: Side effects, like discomfort, sensitivity to light, and dry eyes, are normal. Patients need to wear protective bandage contacts for 5 – 7 days. Normal activities can be resumed after one week, with optimal results showing after 4 – 12 weeks.

• LASIK: Hazy vision and light sensitivity are common among patients who get LASIK, but results will continue to develop and stabilize over the following 2 – 3 months. The good news is most people will have clearer vision within one day.

What about night vision after PRK/LASIK?

As we mentioned, it is normal to experience some changes to your night vision after laser eye surgery. These changes are temporary, and you can expect your vision to improve within a short timeframe. We encourage patients to talk to Dr. Wang and attend all follow-up appointments as directed. Our eye care team wants to ensure that your new eyesight meets expectations before declaring surgery a success.

Learn more about PRK/LASIK recovery

Vision services can restore your eyesight and help you see clearly for life. Learn more about PRK and Nashville LASIK surgery by calling for a comprehensive consultation and evaluation. Eye surgeon Dr. Ming Wang can answer questions about side effects, recovery, and when you can expect your night vision to return to normal. Wang Vision Institute proudly serves our local community and beyond with cutting-edge procedures.