No-Touch PRK Laser Eye Treatment

One of the groundbreaking technologies in recent years for treating eye disorders, No-Touch PRK laser is, as its name suggests, a contactless laser treatment. This method provides a safe and effective solution, especially for individuals with insufficient corneal thickness or those unsuitable for conventional laser procedures. As a modern evolution of photorefractive keratectomy (PRK), this treatment is applied to the eye surface without any physical contact from the laser.

In this article, we will cover everything you need to know about No-Touch PRK laser, from its advantages and recovery process to application steps and frequently asked questions. We will also share the clinical experiences of Op. Dr. Diclehan, a leading ophthalmologist in Turkey who successfully applies this method.

What is No-Touch PRK Laser?

No-Touch PRK laser involves the complete vaporization of the epithelial cells on the cornea surface using laser energy, followed by correction of refractive errors with the laser. During this treatment, neither a scalpel nor any mechanical instrument touches the eye surface, making it more comfortable compared to classic PRK.

Op. Dr. Diclehan emphasizes that this treatment is ideal for patients with thin corneas, active athletes, or those in professions prone to eye trauma.

How is No-Touch PRK Laser Performed?

The No-Touch PRK laser procedure is precise and carefully planned. The application steps are as follows:

• Pre-examination and Planning: The patient's eye structure, corneal thickness, eye prescription, and corneal map are thoroughly examined. The treatment plan is prepared based on suitability.
• Anesthesia: Only topical eye drops are used for local anesthesia. No injections or general anesthesia are required.
• Laser Removal of the Epithelium: The outer layer of the eye, the epithelium, is gently vaporized with an excimer laser without any mechanical contact.
• Correction of Refractive Errors: After removing the epithelium, the cornea is reshaped with the laser to permanently correct myopia, astigmatism, or hyperopia.
• Protective Lens Placement: A transparent, temporary contact lens is placed on the eye after treatment to protect the epithelium as it regenerates and to increase patient comfort.

Who is Suitable for No-Touch PRK Laser?

Op. Dr. Diclehan notes that each patient's eye structure should be evaluated individually. In general, No-Touch PRK laser is suitable for:

• Individuals who want to stop using glasses or contact lenses
• Those with corneal thickness not suitable for LASIK or SMILE
• Patients over 18 with a stable prescription for at least one year
• Active athletes or those in trauma-prone professions such as military, police
• Patients who have previously had LASIK and require a second laser treatment

Another advantage of this method is that no flap is created on the cornea, eliminating the risk of reopening due to trauma.

Advantages of No-Touch PRK Laser

No-Touch PRK laser offers several benefits compared to other laser methods, including:

• Contactless Application: No instrument, scalpel, or spatula touches the eye surface, reducing infection risk.
• No Corneal Incision: Unlike LASIK, no flap is created, preserving the cornea’s structural integrity.
• Suitable for Thin Corneas: Can be safely applied to patients unsuitable for other laser methods.
• Reduced Dryness Risk: Less nerve damage on the corneal surface leads to less postoperative dryness.
• Trauma Resistance: No incision means the eye is more resistant to impact, making it suitable for professions like military or police.

Comparison with Other Methods

Main differences between No-Touch PRK laser and methods like LASIK and SMILE:

• LASIK involves a large corneal flap, which No-Touch PRK avoids.
• SMILE creates a small incision but still involves mechanical handling, whereas No-Touch PRK is entirely laser-based.
• No-Touch PRK may have a slightly longer recovery period but offers higher trauma resistance.

Op. Dr. Diclehan states that they prioritize No-Touch PRK laser for young, active individuals or patients with occupational risk.

Recovery Process

The recovery after No-Touch PRK laser generally progresses as follows:

• First 3 days: Mild pain, stinging, and light sensitivity may occur. Painkillers and antibiotic eye drops are prescribed. Temporary blurriness may be present.
• Days 4-7: Epithelial regeneration begins, and vision gradually clears. Protective lens is usually removed on day 5 or 6.
• 2nd week: Vision becomes more comfortable; computer use and driving are possible.
• 1 month: Vision stabilizes and reaches maximum clarity.

Op. Dr. Diclehan emphasizes that regular follow-ups accelerate recovery and ensure optimal results.

Risks and Side Effects

As with any surgical procedure, No-Touch PRK laser has some potential risks, generally mild and temporary:

• Temporary light scatter and glare at night
• Blurred vision during the first days
• Mild eye dryness
• Rarely, undercorrection or need for repeat laser

Op. Dr. Diclehan notes that proper patient selection and thorough pre-examinations significantly reduce the likelihood of these risks.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is the No-Touch PRK laser procedure painful?
The procedure is painless, but mild stinging and discomfort may occur during the first 2-3 days, controlled with eye drops.

Can both eyes be treated simultaneously?
Yes, usually both eyes are treated in the same session.

When does vision become clear?
Vision typically clears within the first week, though full clarity may take 3-4 weeks.

Is the effect of the laser permanent?
Yes, as long as your prescription remains stable, the effect is permanent.

Will I need glasses again after the procedure?
Most patients do not. However, presbyopia (difficulty seeing up close) may develop with age.

Op. Dr. Diclehan’s Experience with No-Touch PRK

Op. Dr. Diclehan, with long-standing experience in laser eye surgery, is a specialist known for advanced technology and personalized treatment planning. Successfully applying No-Touch PRK laser, Op. Dr. Diclehan customizes examinations and determines the most suitable treatment for each patient, guiding them throughout the process. Patient feedback highlights high satisfaction due to his expertise, clear explanations, and calm approach.

What Do Scientific Studies Say?

Numerous international studies have shown that No-Touch PRK laser is both safe and effective. Research indicates a success rate above 95% in treating myopia and astigmatism. Infection rates are also lower compared to classic PRK.

A study by the American Academy of Ophthalmology reported that most patients achieved 20/20 vision six months after the procedure. The laser removal of the epithelium makes recovery more comfortable than mechanical methods.

No-Touch PRK laser is a revolutionary, modern, and safe method in eye surgery. It is particularly ideal for patients with thin corneas, those exposed to trauma, or those who prefer non-mechanical procedures. Its completely contactless application enhances patient comfort and reduces infection risk.

In Turkey, Op. Dr. Diclehan is one of the specialists successfully applying this method, offering individualized treatment plans with high success rates. If you wish to stop using glasses or contact lenses but are concerned about traditional laser methods, No-Touch PRK laser may be the right choice for you.