Laser vision correction for thin corneas
PRK Surgery – A proven, safe vision correction solution
PRK is the oldest and most proven laser vision correction procedure. It is ideal for those who are not suitable for other treatments due to thin corneas, but still want to live without glasses or contact lenses.
A proven method for 30 years
Alternative for thin corneas
10 year retreatment guarantee
Who is PRK treatment recommended for?
PRK surgery is ideal for those who want to get rid of glasses or contact lenses permanently, but are not suitable for other (flap) procedures due to thin corneas.
We recommend it if:
- Turned 18
- Myopia between -1 and -12 diopters
- Struggling with astigmatism between +4 and -4 diopters
- There has been no change in visual acuity in the past year.
- Your eyes can no longer tolerate wearing contact lenses.
- You want to see clearly without glasses or contact lenses
When is PRK surgery not recommended?
For safety reasons, PRK may not be a suitable option. In such cases, our doctors will recommend an alternative treatment.
Most common reasons for exclusion:
- Some autoimmune diseases
- Certain wound healing problems
- Severe blurred vision
- Presence of cataracts
- Pregnancy
- Breastfeeding period
- Irregularly shaped cornea
- Previous herpes infection of the eye
- Severe dry eye problem
- He only wears reading glasses.
If you are unsure whether you are a suitable candidate for PRK treatment, a detailed eye examination will help to determine your options. Even in the case of exclusion, there is no cause for concern, as ICL artificial lens implantation we recommend.
Process
This is how PRK laser vision correction treatment works, step by step
Every step of PRK is planned in advance and safe. In this process, we will show you how PRK treatment works from start to finish.
During the first consultation, we will conduct a detailed, thorough examination to determine whether PRK is the best solution for you. Our clinic is located on Bécsi út, where we welcome you in a discreet, premium environment.
Period: ≈ 60–90 minutes
More information
The aptitude test will include the following:
- Corneal map (topography) showing the unique irregularities of the eye surface.
- Accurate measurement of diopter, cylinder, and corneal thickness.
- Tear film and pupil examination (pupil dilation with eye drops).
- Tear film and pupil examination (with pupil dilation).
- Slit lamp examination of the anterior segment and fundus (pupil dilation with eye drops).
- Medical consultation: discussing results, answering questions.
Practical information:
- It is recommended to remove soft contact lenses 3 days before the examination, and hard lenses 3 weeks before.
- Blurred vision may occur for 2-3 hours due to dilation; avoid driving during this period.
- Please bring your previous eye exam results with you, if you have them.
Output:
- A clear yes/no decision on PRK treatment or an alternative suggestion.
- Personalized treatment plan and timing.
PRK surgery is performed by an experienced ophthalmologist using local anesthetic eye drops. Most patients feel pressure at most, but no pain.
Period: ≈ 15–20 minutes for both eyes
More information
Steps in brief:
- Preparation, disinfection, application of an eyelid splint.
- Activate eye tracking; the system tracks even the slightest eye movement.
- Laser treatment: the actual laser time is typically measured in seconds. (a dioptria mértékétől függően kb. ~1,4 mp/dioptria).
- Rest, brief observation, return home with an escort.
Please note this:
- Do not use makeup, perfume, or hair products containing alcohol for 3-4 days before surgery.
- We recommend that you avoid drinking alcohol 24 hours before and 48 hours after surgery.
- Bring quality sunglasses due to light sensitivity.
- Arrange for transportation home.
PRK is safe and provides excellent long-term results, but recovery is slower than with flap procedures. Vision improvement can be noticed within days, but complete stabilization may take several weeks.
Period: ≈ 24-72 hours
More information
The first 24–72 hours:
- Tearing, stinging, and sensitivity to light may occur for a few days. - that's natural.
- Rest with your eyes closed for 3–4 hours after surgery.
- Use the eye drops prescribed by your doctor according to protocol.
- Don't rub your eyes.
- Screen: with short segments, frequent blinking, artificial tears.
Returning to your daily routine after PRK surgery:
- Work: Office work usually takes 1 week.
- Driving: recommended approximately 2 weeks after surgery
- Swimming/sauna: typically recommended after 2 weeks.
- Eye makeup: generally safe after 3 weeks.
(Of course, everyone heals at a different rate, so always follow your doctor's instructions.)
You can count on our team even after the surgery! We will accompany you throughout your recovery so that you can feel calm and safe.
Period: ≈ 1-3 months
More information
Mandatory controls:
- 72-hour control: We check the beginning of healing in the first few days.
- 1 month: We will see how your vision stabilizes.
- 3 months: Monitoring longer-term recovery.
- 6 months: Final check, confirmation of long-term results.
Follow-up:
Dry eyes, light sensitivity or slight blurring may occur temporarily, but are well managed. The result gradually stabilizes, usually within a few months.
All of this is guaranteed by Saint James with a 10-year retreatment guarantee.
Results
What results can you expect after PRK treatment?
PRK is one of the oldest laser vision correction procedures, and its safety and effectiveness have been proven over several decades of experience. Most of our patients can see clearly without glasses or contact lenses after recovering from surgery.
Insight with decades of experience
PRK is one of the oldest laser vision correction procedures, and its safety and effectiveness have been proven over several decades of experience. The vast majority of our patients can see clearly without glasses or contact lenses after recovering from surgery.
- Long-lasting, stable vision improvement
- Proven reliable method with 30 years of clinical experience
- Sharp vision without glasses or contact lenses
- 10-year re-treatment guarantee for peace of mind
My eyes were sensitive for a few days after the surgery, but the result made up for everything – finally, I don't need glasses for everyday life.
— Our patient's feedback —
Reviews
Our patients' opinions on PRK laser eye surgery
The greatest comfort is often not in the numbers, but in the experiences of other patients. Learn their stories and hear how clear vision has changed their everyday lives.
"I wore glasses for 21 years, and for 10 of those years I wore contact lenses almost constantly because I play sports regularly. The surgery completely changed my life, and I am grateful every day that I went through with it!"
– Piroska Pöröntő after PRK treatment
"The surgery was completely painless and took surprisingly little time. I felt some discomfort over the next few days, but the end result was worth every minute!"
– Bianka Mádi after PRK treatment
At Saint James Vision and Aesthetics Center, not only technology but also care is top-notch. Our doctors and the entire team work every step of the way to ensure you enjoy clear vision safely and with satisfaction.
Decades of experience
How does PRK treatment work?
PRK is the oldest laser vision correction method, whose effectiveness has been proven by decades of experience. During the treatment, the upper layer of the cornea is removed, and then refractive errors are corrected using a laser. This is a safe, precise procedure that provides long-term stable results.
PRK is particularly ideal for those who are not suitable for other treatments due to thin corneas.
The guarantee of insight
Unique 10-year retreatment guarantee
At Saint James Clinic, we are the first in Hungary to offer a 10-year re-treatment guarantee for our laser eye surgeries. If your vision is worse than expected after surgery or deteriorates in the following years, we will perform the correction free of charge. Our more than 15 years of experience and tens of thousands of successful surgeries are the guarantee that you will see clearly in the long term.
Focus on safety
Safety and risks associated with PRK treatment
As with any procedure, there may be temporary side effects, but these are typically mild and easily manageable.
Occasional, temporary symptoms may include:
- Dry eyes or tearing
- Sensitivity to light, glare at night
- Short-term foreign body sensation
- Slight blurring in the first few days of recovery
What we do for safety:
- Modern diagnostic and laser equipment
- Experienced ophthalmologists who have performed thousands of surgeries
- Strict hygiene and surgical protocols
- Regular check-ups until full recovery
If you have any questions or concerns, our doctors will discuss your options in detail. It is important to us that you make your decision with complete safety and confidence.
Prices and financing
Transparent PRK treatment prices, no hidden costs
The price of PRK treatment at Saint James Clinic:
189.000 HUF / piece
- The price includes the suitability test, surgery and mandatory check-ups.
Discounts:
- For our rural patients 5000 HUF travel allowance
- With student ID 10 000 HUF discount of the cost of the surgery
Financing
At Saint James Vision and Aesthetics Center, it is important to us that treatment can be planned financially, which is why we offer several financing solutions:
Instalment payment
Már 7 875 HUF / month / piece, with a term of 12 months
- Opening paragraph: 94 500 HUF / piece
- One-time contract fee: 30 000 HUF
Health fund settlement
Available for the full amount
For detailed information, see Instalment payment menu.
Doctor and team
Our doctors and team - professional experience, personal care
PRK treatment is performed by experienced ophthalmologists at Saint James Clinic, who put their domestic and international experience at the service of their patients. In addition to professional knowledge, personal attention and care are also core values at our clinic.
Dr. Kristóf Perényi, chief physician and clinic director
An ophthalmologist who graduated from Semmelweis University and runs the clinic based on domestic and international experience. During his training abroad, he mastered the most modern laser vision correction techniques.
Mission: To provide a safe, natural visual experience for all patients.
Security and support throughout the entire process
The key to success is not only the expertise of the doctor, but also the cooperation of the entire team – from assistants to coordinators to colleagues performing follow-up examinations. This is how we ensure that all our patients feel safe and supported at every step of the process.
Frequently Asked Questions
Frequently asked questions about PRK surgery
We have compiled a list of the most frequently asked questions that may be of interest to you regarding PRK treatment.
Is PRK surgery painful?
The treatment is performed using local anesthetic eye drops, so the procedure itself is painless. However, in the first few days, you may experience a stinging sensation or sensitivity to light, which will subside within a few days.
How long does it take to heal?
Recovery from PRK is slower than with other procedures. Vision improves after a few days, but complete stabilization can take weeks. You can usually return to office work after 4–7 days and to sports after 1–4 weeks.
When can I drive again?
It depends on the individual, but it is usually possible 10-14 days after the surgery.
Do you operate on both eyes at the same time?
Yes, during PRK treatment, both eyes are operated on at the same time, thus avoiding temporary differences between the two eyes.
What control tests are necessary?
Mandatory check-ups: 72 hours, then 1 month, 3 months, and 6 months. The doctor may recommend additional tests depending on the pace of recovery.
What should you pay attention to after surgery?
During the first few weeks, avoid mechanical impact to the eyes (rubbing, makeup, water). Sports and swimming can be gradually resumed according to your doctor's instructions.
How long do the results last?
PRK offers a permanent solution, with the diopter of the treated eyes remaining stable in the long term. At Saint James Clinic, all this is complemented by 10 év újrakezelési garanciát biztosítunk.
Are there any discounts?
Yes. We provide our rural patients with a travel allowance of 5,000 HUF, and students receive a discount of 10,000 HUF on the cost of surgery.
Book an appointment
Take the first step towards insight with us.
The first step in PRK treatment is a detailed, painless suitability examination. This provides an accurate answer as to whether the procedure is right for you.
Online appointment booking for aptitude test
Complete an online aptitude test
We provide the opportunity to complete an online suitability test, during which you can find out which type of treatment is the most ideal choice for you.
The test will take no more than 5 minutes to complete.
- 1034 Budapest. Bécsi út 68-84.
- recepcio@stjameshospital.hu
- +36 1 788 2927
Location and approach
Location and access to Saint James Vision and Aesthetics Center
Saint James Vision and Aesthetics Center is located at1034 Budapest. Bécsi út 68-84 address, in an easily accessible location. Convenient arrival is important to our guests, so we offer several options.
Whether you are arriving from Budapest or elsewhere in the country, we will welcome you in a discreet and premium environment, in peaceful surroundings.
Access and parking:
- Private parking in the clinic's underground garage (prior arrangement required, parking is subject to a fee)
- Easily accessible by public transport (bus and tram stops nearby)
- We provide detailed guidance and travel assistance for those arriving from outside the city.
