No Touch Laser
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What is No Touch Laser Eye Surgery (PRK)?
No Touch Laser Eye Surgery (PRK - Photorefractive Keratectomy) is a highly effective refractive surgery method designed to correct myopia (nearsightedness), hyperopia (farsightedness), and astigmatism. The primary goal of this procedure is to eliminate or significantly reduce a patient's dependency on glasses or contact lenses. As one of the most proven forms of laser vision correction, PRK has been successfully performed worldwide for nearly 30 years.
How Does PRK Work?
Unlike Intralase SBK or conventional blade LASIK, which involve creating a hinged pocket or flap, PRK is performed directly on the surface of the cornea. The procedure involves the removal of the cornea’s epithelial (outer skin) layer without creating a flap.
Once the surface is prepared, an excimer laser sculpts the underlying tissue to correct the patient's specific visual error. The "No Touch" technique refers to removing the epithelial layer using either the laser itself or a liquid solution, replacing older methods that used blades or motorized brushes.
PRK vs. Intralase SBK: Key Differences
While the visual outcomes of "No Touch" PRK are extremely predictable and comparable to Intralase SBK, there are distinct differences in the recovery process:
- Vision Improvement: Progress is more gradual in PRK; final results may take a few weeks.
- Initial Recovery: During the first 4-5 days, PRK patients may experience higher light sensitivity and irritation.
- Follow-up Care: PRK requires more frequent use of eye drops and arranged transportation for initial follow-up visits.
- Tissue Preservation: PRK leaves more tissue available for treatment, making it ideal for patients with thin corneas or high prescriptions.
Who is the Ideal Candidate for No Touch PRK?
"No Touch" PRK offers specific advantages for certain patient groups. It is often the preferred choice for:
- Patients with thin corneas unsuitable for LASIK.
- Individuals with high prescriptions.
- Patients who have had previous LASIK surgery and have thin residual corneas.
- Individuals participating in combat sports or high-impact physical activities (due to the absence of a corneal flap).
- Candidates for specific vocations such as law enforcement, military, and firefighting.
The Procedure: What to Expect
On the day of the procedure, the total time spent at the clinic is approximately 90 minutes. The surgery itself is performed in two main steps:
- Epithelium Removal: The surface skin cells are removed (approx. 30 seconds).
- Laser Reshaping: The laser reshapes the corneal tissue (10-40 seconds depending on the prescription).
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Anesthesia | Numbing eye drops (no needles) |
| Duration | Less than 2 minutes per eye |
| Sensation | No pain; pulsing sound and mild odor may be noticed |
| Sedation | Available for anxious patients |
Post-Procedure Recovery and Healing
Immediately following the surgery, a temporary bandage contact lens is placed on the eye to facilitate the healing of the surface layer, which typically takes three to five days.
Recovery Milestones:
- Initial Days: Expect some discomfort, dryness, and light sensitivity.
- Medication: Patients are provided with antibiotic/anti-inflammatory drops, lubrication, and pain medication.
- Lens Removal: The medical team removes the bandage lens once outer cells grow back.
- Driving: Most patients can resume driving within one week.
Consultation and Candidacy
To determine if you are a suitable candidate for No Touch PRK, a comprehensive evaluation is necessary. This includes a thorough eye exam, specialized diagnostic tests, and detailed eye mapping specific to laser correction. During a consultation, you can discuss the procedure in detail and address any specific questions regarding your vision goals.
Op. Dr. Ahmet UMAY
