Is light sensitivity normal after PRK?

What's normal

StatPearls lists photophobia, meaning light sensitivity, along with blurred vision and transient ghosting or glare, as common during days 1 to 3 after PRK. EyeWiki lists light sensitivity in the same early window.

The cause is the same as the pain and tearing, an exposed corneal surface with irritated nerve endings. It usually improves markedly once the epithelium closes over about 3 to 5 days. Most people spend the first days in a dim room with sunglasses, and that is a reasonable way to get through it.

Milder sensitivity can persist for weeks while the surface smooths out, and dryness makes it worse. Sunglasses are recommended anyway. The American Academy of Ophthalmology says to wear sunglasses outside after PRK for as long as your doctor tells you, and StatPearls advises UV protective sunglasses for about 6 months.

Peaks in the first 1 to 3 days, much better after the surface closes, with mild residual sensitivity possible for several weeks.

When it stops being normal

Light sensitivity that gets sharply worse after it had been improving, especially with new pain, redness, or discharge, is a reason to call. StatPearls notes infection typically shows up on postoperative days 2 to 4, and pain plus photophobia plus redness is the classic combination to get checked.

The American Academy of Ophthalmology says to call your ophthalmologist if pain is not helped by over the counter medicines. Sensitivity that is steadily improving week over week is normal.