1. What exactly is No-Touch Laser Eye Surgery?

No-Touch laser eye surgery is a surface laser vision correction technique, commonly known as TransPRK. Unlike LASIK, no corneal flap is created. The laser removes the surface epithelial layer and reshapes the underlying cornea without the use of a blade or mechanical instrument touching the cornea during the laser treatment.

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2. What eye conditions can No-Touch / PRK treat?

PRK and TransPRK can be used to treat suitable patients with:

• Myopia (nearsightedness)

• Hyperopia (farsightedness)

• Astigmatism

The treatable prescription range depends on corneal thickness, corneal shape, prescription stability and overall eye health. Suitability cannot be determined from prescription alone.

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3. Is No-Touch better than LASIK or ReLEx SMILE?

No single laser eye surgery technique is best for every patient.

No-Touch / PRK does not require a corneal flap and may be considered for some patients whose corneal measurements or lifestyle make LASIK less suitable. Femto LASIK generally offers a faster initial recovery, while ReLEx SMILE uses a small-incision, flapless approach.

The most appropriate treatment is determined after a detailed ophthalmological examination.

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4. How long does the No-Touch laser procedure take?

The laser treatment itself usually takes only a short time for each eye. Including preparation, examination and post-treatment care, patients should expect to spend longer at the clinic.

The exact procedure time varies according to the treatment plan and laser platform used.

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5. Is No-Touch / PRK painful?

Anesthetic eye drops are used before treatment, so patients usually experience little or no pain during the laser procedure itself.

Because the corneal surface needs time to regenerate afterward, burning, watering, light sensitivity, irritation and discomfort are common during the first few days. A therapeutic contact lens is usually placed on the eye temporarily while the epithelium heals.

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6. How soon can I see clearly after No-Touch laser surgery?

Vision usually begins improving during the first several days, but recovery is generally slower than with Femto LASIK or ReLEx SMILE.

Functional vision may return within several days, while visual clarity can continue improving over the following weeks. Some patients experience temporary fluctuations in vision during the healing period.

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7. Is there any downtime?

Yes. PRK generally requires more initial recovery time than LASIK or SMILE.

Patients should usually plan several days away from work and avoid activities that may irritate the eyes during early healing. The therapeutic contact lens is typically removed after the surface of the cornea has sufficiently healed.

Your ophthalmologist will advise when it is appropriate to return to work, exercise, swimming and other activities.

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8. Are the results permanent?

The corneal reshaping performed during PRK is intended to provide long-term refractive correction.

However, eyesight can still change over time because of ageing, changes in prescription or conditions such as presbyopia. Some patients may therefore require glasses or additional vision correction later in life.

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9. What are the risks or side effects?

As with any eye surgery, No-Touch / PRK has potential risks and side effects.

Temporary effects may include:

• Eye discomfort during the first few days

• Light sensitivity

• Dry-eye symptoms

• Blurred or fluctuating vision

• Glare or halos, particularly at night

Less common complications can include infection, corneal haze, delayed epithelial healing, undercorrection, overcorrection or regression of the refractive result.

A detailed pre-operative examination and appropriate post-operative follow-up help reduce these risks.

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10. How much does No-Touch / PRK cost in Istanbul compared with the UK or USA?

Laser eye surgery is often more affordable in Istanbul than in the UK or USA, particularly for international patients.

The exact cost of No-Touch / PRK depends on the treatment plan and whether both eyes are treated. Contact LASIK Istanbul for the current package price and information about what is included in the pre-operative examination, procedure and follow-up care.

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11. Is it safe to travel after No-Touch / PRK surgery?

International patients can usually travel after the ophthalmologist confirms that the corneal surface is healing appropriately.

Because PRK recovery is slower than LASIK or SMILE, patients may need to remain in Istanbul for several days for early follow-up and removal of the therapeutic contact lens.

Your doctor will advise when it is appropriate to fly based on your healing progress.

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12. Am I a good candidate for No-Touch / PRK?

No-Touch / PRK may be suitable for adults with a stable prescription who meet the necessary corneal and eye-health criteria.

It may also be considered for some patients who are not ideal candidates for flap-based LASIK.

Suitability depends on factors including:

• Corneal thickness

• Corneal shape and topography

• Prescription stability

• Tear-film health

• Eye health

• Age

• Lifestyle and occupation

A detailed ophthalmological examination is required before deciding which laser vision correction method is most appropriate.