What is No-Touch Laser?

The No-Touch-Trans-PRK, also known as No-Touch Laser, is an advanced method for correcting refractive errors such as myopia, hyperopia, and astigmatism. It represents a further development of the PRK (Photorefractive Keratectomy) and LASEK (Laser Epithelial Keratomileusis) techniques. Unlike traditional methods, the No-Touch Trans-PRK involves no physical contact with the eye, making it an appealing alternative for patients who cannot undergo Femto-LASIK, often due to having thin corneas.

How Does No-Touch Trans-PRK Work?

This method uses cutting-edge laser technology to remove the corneal epithelium and reshape the cornea without any incisions. Here's how it works:

1
Anaesthesia and Treatment: The procedure is performed under local anaesthesia, ensuring that patients do not feel any pain during the treatment. The non-contact nature of the procedure means that there is no physical touch with the eyes during the entire process.
2
Removal of Corneal Epithelium: The excimer laser first removes the outermost layer of the cornea (the epithelium) without the need for a scraper or mechanical methods, unlike traditional PRK or LASEK.
3
Reshaping the Cornea: After the epithelium is removed, the excimer laser precisely ablates the cornea to a certain thickness, determined by preoperative measurements. This reshaping of the cornea adjusts its refractive power, allowing light rays to focus correctly on the retina, resulting in clear vision.
4
Post-Operative Care: A therapeutic contact lens is placed on the eye immediately after the procedure to protect it while the epithelium regenerates. This lens is typically worn for 3 to 5 days. While initial recovery happens quickly, it may take two to three months for vision to fully stabilis

Is No-Touch Laser Safe?

No-Touch Laser Eye Surgery is generally considered safe and has a low complication rate. However, like any surgical procedure, it does carry potential risks and side effects, such as:

Temporary Visual Disturbances: Patients may experience halos or glare, especially at night, during the recovery period.
Dry Eyes: A common side effect, typically resolving within a few months post-surgery.

No-Touch LASEK

In traditional LASEK, diluted alcohol is used to soften and remove the corneal epithelium before the excimer laser reshapes the cornea. In No-Touch LASEK, or Trans-PRK, the epithelium is directly removed by the excimer laser in a more efficient and precise procedure, eliminating the need for alcohol or mechanical tools.

Advantages of No-Touch Trans-PRK

No Incisions: The method does not require any incisions, which reduces the risk of complications associated with flap creation in LASIK.
Non-Contact Procedure: The lack of physical contact with the eye during surgery makes it suitable for patients with thin corneas or other corneal irregularities.
Both Eyes Treated Simultaneously: Patients can have both eyes treated in the same session, and they can return home immediately after the procedure.

In summary, No-Touch Trans-PRK is a modern, non-invasive option for those seeking vision correction without the risks associated with traditional LASIK or PRK methods. While recovery may take a bit longer, the procedure's safety and effectiveness make it a compelling choice for eligible patients.

Key Features of No-Touch Laser (TransPRK):

1
No Physical Contact with the Eye: Unlike traditional laser eye surgeries like LASIK, where a flap is created in the cornea, no-touch laser techniques involve no physical contact with the eye. The laser directly removes the outer layer of the cornea (epithelium) without any cutting or use of instruments.
2
Single-Step Procedure: The no-touch method is typically a single-step process where the laser both removes the epithelial layer and reshapes the underlying corneal tissue in one go. This is different from traditional PRK, where the epithelium is manually removed before the laser treatment.
3
Reduced Risk of Complications: Since there's no need to create a corneal flap, as in LASIK, the risk of complications related to flap creation is eliminated. This makes it a safer option for patients with thin corneas or other corneal irregularities.
4
Longer Recovery Time: While the procedure is less invasive in terms of contact, recovery can take longer compared to LASIK. Patients may experience discomfort and blurred vision for several days to weeks as the epithelium regenerates.
5
Broader Applicability: No-touch laser surgery is suitable for patients who may not be ideal candidates for LASIK due to thin corneas, dry eyes, or other conditions.
6
Precision: The procedure uses advanced laser technology to precisely reshape the cornea, improving visual acuity while minimising damage to surrounding tissues.

Dr Amir Mani - Specialist refractive surgeon

One of the most experienced refractive surgeons in London

Dr Mani has performed more than 20,000 ophthalmic procedures, including LASIK, LASEK, PRK, Femto Cataract, RLE, Lens ICL and Phakic IOL Surgery

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I had a great experience performing my laser eye surgery at Optimal Vision Clinic. All the staffs are very helpful, co-operative and supportive throughout the treatment process. On the first call, they explained the entire procedure in details and gave necessary instructions at every stage. My eye surgeon made me feel comfortable and relaxed before and during the procedure. Aftercare was done properly with a thorough check-up of my eyes. I would like to recommend this clinic to everyone!

Debra Virginia

Very happy and impressed with the highly professional care and service I’ve received at the Optimal Vision clinic. Dr Mani is so professional, and he explained everything about Laser surgery and answered all my questions. The surgery was quick and almost completely painless. My eyes have healed perfectly and quickly. I would highly recommend this clinic.

Samira Emadi

My husband had been experiencing discomfort in his left eye since July and was seen by various doctors/consultants even at the Queen Mary’s hospital but no abnormalities were found.
This week Dr. Mani discovered the fault which happened to be Retina detachment with three tears.
Dr. Mani’s preciseness and his perfectionist attitude to attention to details, detected the source of the main issue and saved my husband’s eye. We feel utterly grateful and can not recommend him enough for his excellence.

Shirin Amani Azari