No Touch Laser (Trans-PRK) is one of the laser applications used for correcting refractive errors. This method, performed without contact with the eye, is considered for myopia, astigmatism, and some hypermetropia cases in suitable patients. Before the application, the cornea structure, eye prescription, eye surface health, and general eye examination findings are examined in detail.
Since each individual's eye structure is different in laser treatments, the suitability of No Touch Laser applications is evaluated on a personal basis. Factors such as corneal thickness, stable eye prescription, and the presence of accompanying eye diseases are important in treatment planning.
What is No Touch Laser (Trans-PRK)?
No Touch Laser is one of the laser methods used to correct refractive errors without contacting the eye. It is performed without device contact to the corneal surface and can be considered for the treatment of myopia and astigmatism in suitable patients.
How is No Touch Laser Performed?
Before the No Touch Laser surgery, the patient's eye structure is evaluated in detail. Assessments like eye prescription measurements, corneal thickness, corneal topography, and eye surface examination are conducted to determine suitability for laser treatment.
During the procedure, local anesthesia in the form of drops is applied to the eye. Then, using excimer laser technology, the planned laser application is performed on the cornea's front surface, without any physical contact. The patient is asked to focus on the device light during the procedure, and eye movements are kept under control with advanced tracking systems.
How Long Does No Touch Laser Take?
The procedure is usually completed in a short time. The duration can vary depending on eye structure and application planning.
Who Can Undergo No Touch Laser?
No Touch Laser (Trans-PRK) applications can be planned for individuals whose eye structure is found suitable and who can be evaluated for laser treatment of refractive errors. It is one of the methods that can be applied especially in cases of myopia, astigmatism, and some suitable hypermetropia.
Typically, it is evaluated for:
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Individuals aged 18 and over,
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Those with a stable eye prescription over a certain period,
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Individuals with a suitable corneal structure,
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Persons without active eye infection or advanced corneal disease
can be assessed.
Additionally:
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Individuals with myopia, hypermetropia, and astigmatism,
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Those working in occupational groups prone to eye trauma,
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Individuals involved in active sports,
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People who prefer not to have contact with the eye during laser application,
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Individuals interested in non-incisive laser methods
it is also suitable.
However, since each individual's eye structure is different, the suitability of laser applications can only be determined following a detailed eye examination, cornea analysis and expert physician evaluation. Factors such as corneal thickness, eye surface health, degree of dry eye, and retinal structure are important in treatment planning.
What is the Recovery Process Like After No Touch Laser?
The recovery process after No Touch Laser surgery can vary from person to person. In the first days following the procedure, complaints such as stinging, watering, burning sensation in the eyes, light sensitivity, and temporary blurred vision may occur. These symptoms are generally considered a natural part of the healing process.
To expedite the healing of the eye surface after the procedure, the drop treatment recommended by the physician should be used regularly. It is also advised not to rub the eyes, to pay attention to hygiene rules, and not to skip follow-up examinations.
During the recovery period after No Touch Laser:
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Avoidance of dusty and heavily smoky environments,
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Taking a break from areas that could increase the risk of infection like pools, the sea, and saunas for a while,
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Using sunglasses to protect against sunlight,
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Ensuring eye comfort during screen use
are recommended.
The process of achieving clear vision can vary depending on personal corneal structure and healing speed. Therefore, the post-procedure follow-up process is essential to be conducted under the supervision of an expert physician.
Can Sunglasses Be Used After No Touch Laser?
Since light sensitivity may develop in the eyes after No Touch Laser, using sunglasses according to the physician's recommendation may be necessary. Sunglasses providing UV protection should be preferred, especially outdoors.
Is No Touch Laser Painful?
Since drop anesthesia is used during the procedure, the level of pain is generally minimal. However, in the first few days after the procedure, stinging, burning, and sensitivity may occur. The level of complaints may vary from person to person.
What is the Difference Between No Touch Laser and PRK?
No Touch Laser and PRK are laser treatment methods applied to the cornea surface and are termed surface ablative procedures. The primary aim of both methods is to correct refractive errors such as myopia, hypermetropia, and astigmatism without creating a flap on the cornea.
The difference between No Touch Laser and PRK is as follows:
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In the PRK Method: The epithelial layer on the top of the cornea is mechanically removed with the help of a surgical instrument, and then the laser application proceeds.
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In the No Touch Laser (Trans-PRK) Method: No physical contact with the eye is made. The entire process, including the removal of the epithelial layer, is completed directly with laser beams within seconds.
Which method is appropriate should be determined after evaluating lifestyle, professional needs, and a detailed ophthalmological examination.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can the No Touch Laser procedure be done in the summer?
It can be considered in different seasons if suitable conditions are met. However, attention to sun protection and hygiene rules post-procedure is necessary.
Will the eye prescription change again after No Touch Laser surgery?
No, the correction achieved by No Touch Laser is permanent. The success rate is quite high. Only in very rare cases, small changes may be observed due to the individual's corneal structure or healing speed; however, this does not affect daily life.
Can the No Touch Laser method be applied to both eyes at the same time?
The procedure can be applied to both eyes in the same session for suitable patients. However, the application planning is determined by the eye structure, examination findings, and expert physician evaluation.
When is it possible to start seeing clearly after No Touch Laser?
In the first days after the procedure, fluctuations and blurriness in vision may occur. The process of improving vision clarity varies depending on individual healing speed and corneal structure. For some people, comfort in daily life increases shortly, while full visual stabilization may take longer.
