To compare the outcomes of applying preservative free artificial tears (PFAT) with and without Hyaluronic acid (HA) in early postoperative course before contact lens removal following photorefractive keratectomy (PRK).

Following PRK, the study participants were divided to three groups; in group one patients received HA containing PFAT drop, in group two PFAT drop without HA and in group three, no artificial tear was administered in early postoperative course before bandage contact lens removal . On first and 4th post-operative days, patients were asked about their pain and ocular discomfort. Visual acuity was evaluated in the first and three months follow up using Log MAR scale. Slit lamp examinations were performed to assess post-operative complications.

PRK procedure was performed on 460 eyes of 230 patients. In group one and two, mean score of ocular discomfort including epiphora, foreign body sensation and blurred vision on 1st postoperative day , LogMAR of visual acuity at one month follow up and total rate of corneal haze were less than group three (P<0.05). Comparing between group one and two, no significant difference was observed in terms of the mentioned issues.

Following PRK surgery, applying PFAT with and without HA yields in faster visual recovery, decreased post-operative ocular discomfort and haze formation with no additive effect of HA.