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No Touch/PRK
550 £Per Eye
PRK
- Accommodation3 Nights
- Included
- 3 Meals a Day
- Included
- Airport TransfersRound-Trip
- Included
- Doctor Examination
- Included
- All Eye Tests
- Included
- PRK Laser Surgery
- Included
- Surgery Control
- Included
- Pay On-Site
Treatments
LASEK / PRK / No Touch Laser
LASEK, PRK and No Touch are surface laser treatments that reshape the cornea without creating a flap. They correct myopia, hyperopia and astigmatism and are often chosen when iLASIK is not suitable.
- Op. Dr. Nail Sönmez
- Last updated:
- 6 min read
- Medically reviewed by Op. Dr. Mehmet Ali Özdil
Operation Duration
5-10 Minutes
Recovery Time
Back to daily life in 3-4 days, full recovery in 2-4 weeks
Anaesthesia Type
Topical Eye Drops
Eye Laser Treatment Methods
LASEK, PRK or No Touch techniques are known as classical laser treatment. These treatments, which have been used for more than 30 years, have reached a point where extremely successful results can be obtained over many years. Therefore, laser treatments such as LASEK, PRK and No Touch are used to eliminate eye defects.
While the condition where the refractive power of the eye is higher than normal is called myopia, hypermetropia is an eye defect that occurs when the refractive power of the eye is less than normal. In addition, astigmatism refers to the fact that these defects or both of them are not seen equally in the eye quadrants and occur at different values. Each of these defects causes a decrease in visual acuity in people. They are also disorders that reduce the quality of vision. However, their treatment is possible with laser technologies.
Suitability test
Which treatment suits me?
A few short questions to show you which treatments would be discussed at your examination. At the end we will call you for a free consultation.
What is LASEK Treatment and How Is It Performed?
LASEK is a very short operation that is completed in 5-10 minutes. Laser application time is 20-30 seconds per eye, depending on the prescription. It is known as a very common laser surgery in the world. However, it is known that all operations are performed with the latest technology laser devices. Patients who use glasses or lenses after the operation terminate their use. The operation is mostly used for the treatment of hyperopia, astigmatism and myopic refractive problems. It stands out as both an effective and safe method.
The most curious points about LASEK laser treatment are as follows:
- LASEK is based on the principle of removing epithelial tissue with the help of softening medication. After laser application, the removed epithelial tissue spreads back to its place.
- It can be applied to all patients over 18 who have suitable eyes; for those over 45, lens options are also considered.
- A detailed eye examination is performed for the patient before the operation.
- If you wear contact lenses, you should stop using soft lenses 5 days and hard (rigid) lenses 2 weeks before the operation.
- Anaesthetic drops are applied to the patient during the operation.
- With the softening drug applied to the tissue, the bonds of the lower corneal layers of the epithelium are loosened.
- Afterwards, the epithelium is separated into a layer with a diameter of 9 mm with the help of a spatula.
- After the epithelium is moved aside from the treatment area, the excimer laser is applied to the layer without epithelium.
After the application, the epithelial layer taken out is restored. LASEK application is a preferred method in cases where iLASIK application cannot be performed. The patient may feel some discomfort for the first 3 days after the operation. However, vision is completely relieved between 2-4 weeks. 
ReLEx SMILE PRO
+5.00−10.00 0.00
iLASIK (Femto-LASIK)
−10.00 +5.00
LASEK / PRK (No Touch)
−12.00−6.00 +3.00
SuitableNot suitableShort-sighted (−) · Long-sighted (+) · dioptres
The chart is a general guide; which method is possible is decided at your examination.
What is No Touch Treatment?
PRK and No Touch laser treatments are among the most frequently used laser treatments. They can be applied to patients with astigmatism, hyperopia and myopic eye disorders.
When starting the No Touch laser treatment process, anaesthetic drops are first instilled into the eye. During the application, the patient does not feel any pain. There is no device contact with the eye during the application of the treatment. A direct treatment is applied to the eye with the help of the rays emitted from the laser device. All the patient has to do at this stage is to look at the green light reaching the patient from the laser. With a laser time of only 20-30 seconds per eye, both eyes can be treated in the same session. The eyes do not need to be closed after this treatment. The patient can keep both eyes open and return home on the same day. A protective contact lens is placed on the eye for a few days. In this process, the necessary warnings are made by the doctor to protect the patient's eyes. Stinging or redness in the eye is normal for the first 3 days after the operation. However, the patient spends the first days more comfortable with the medications given by the doctor. Complete relief of vision occurs in 2-4 weeks.
What is PRK Treatment?
PRK laser treatment is performed by softening and stripping the epithelial layer on the cornea with the help of a solution. Excimer laser operation is one of the techniques. It is also known as the first Excimer technique applied in the world. The risks of the method are low and it contributes to obtaining very good results in patients. In the PRK method, which is the abbreviation of Photo Refractive Keratectomy, the epithelial layer on the cornea is softened and removed from the upper part. Then, the cornea is reshaped with the laser process. In this way, the refractive power of light is changed.
In PRK laser treatment, the laser works for a few seconds to 20-30 seconds per eye, depending on the prescription. The most important advantage of this treatment is that no flap is created in the cornea. Without a flap there are no flap-related problems and more corneal tissue is preserved, so this method is often preferred for patients whose corneas are on the thin side. Before PRK laser treatment, the patient should not apply eye make-up, use perfume and take blood thinners. Soft contact lens wearers should stop using these lenses 5 days before the operation, and hard lens wearers should stop using these lenses 2 weeks before the operation. You can get information about all the necessary details from your specialist doctor. 
Laser eye surgery
Compare laser methods
- Most choseniLasikFemto Lasik (iDesign)550 £Per Eye
- Method
- A femtosecond laser creates a flap, an excimer laser reshapes the cornea
- Corneal flap
- Created
- Contact and combat sports (boxing, wrestling, MMA)
- Not recommended; a blow can dislodge the flap
- Dry eye
- Not suitable if dryness is marked
- Thin cornea
- Needs sufficient corneal thickness
- Myopia (-SPH)
- Up to -10 D
- Astigmatism (CYL)
- Up to 5 D
- Hyperopia (+SPH)
- Up to +5 D
- Vision settles
- 1-2 days
- Back to work
- Next day
- Comfort in the first days
- Mild stinging for a few hours
- Stands out for
- Fast recovery when corneal thickness allows
- ReLEx SMILE PROSMILE PRO995 £Per Eye
- Method
- No flap; the lenticule is removed through a single 2-4 mm incision
- Corneal flap
- None
- Contact and combat sports (boxing, wrestling, MMA)
- Suitable; there is no flap to dislodge
- Dry eye
- Best option; corneal nerves are least affected
- Thin cornea
- Limited, depending on measurements
- Myopia (-SPH)
- Up to -10 D
- Astigmatism (CYL)
- Up to 5 D
- Hyperopia (+SPH)
- Not treated
- Vision settles
- 1-2 days
- Back to work
- Next day
- Comfort in the first days
- Mild stinging for a few hours
- Stands out for
- Dry eyes, contact sports, higher myopia
- Contact-freeNo Touch/PRKPRK550 £Per Eye
- Method
- Surface laser; the epithelium is removed and no flap is created. With No Touch the laser removes that layer too, without touching the cornea
- Corneal flap
- None
- Contact and combat sports (boxing, wrestling, MMA)
- Suitable; there is no flap to dislodge
- Dry eye
- Suitable
- Thin cornea
- Preferred; uses the least corneal tissue
- Myopia (-SPH)
- Up to -6 D
- Astigmatism (CYL)
- Up to 3 D
- Hyperopia (+SPH)
- Up to +3 D
- Vision settles
- 5-7 days
- Back to work
- 3-5 days
- Comfort in the first days
- Stinging and light sensitivity for a few days
- Stands out for
- Thin corneas, contact sports and patients who want no contact with the cornea
Prices are per the treatment package shown. Our package prices do not change with your prescription; the same price applies whether or not you have astigmatism.
How Long Does Eye Laser Surgery Take?
Eye laser surgery is an operation that is completed in a very short time, approximately 5-10 minutes. During this procedure, which is performed under anaesthetic eye drops, the process is even shorter if only one eye is to be treated. However, the duration may vary according to the patient's eye structure and the details of the treatment.
Laser devices are completely computer controlled and precisely programmed. Therefore, they are very reliable methods. It is a treatment method that offers permanent solutions to vision problems when applied by an expert and experienced doctor.
What to expect with laser treatment
Knowing step by step what happens before, during and after treatment makes the decision easier.
Before your treatment
A warm welcome
Your surgeon greets you, listens to your questions and runs through every detail of the procedure.
A thorough eye examination
Corneal mapping, thickness measurement and an eye-health check determine whether your eyes are suitable for laser.
Treatment plan and consent
The most suitable method is chosen from your measurements; the process, expectations and aftercare are reviewed together.
During your treatment
Numbing drops
The eye is numbed with drops only; there are no injections. You stay awake and comfortable throughout.
Seconds of laser
The laser itself takes a few seconds to 20-30 seconds per eye, depending on the prescription, and the whole procedure a few minutes. The device tracks your eye movements; all you do is look at the light.
A short rest and check
After a short rest your surgeon checks your eyes and gives you your first drops.
After your treatment
The first day
Rest your eyes, use your drops regularly and do not rub. Mild stinging and watering are normal.
Next-day check
A brief check the following day assesses healing; after iLASIK and SMILE most patients already see to driving standard.
Back to daily life
After iLASIK and SMILE most patients are back to daily life the next day; after PRK / No Touch this takes a few days. Screens and sport can be picked up again a week later.
Risks and Possible Side Effects
Eye laser treatments are well-established methods that have been performed on millions of people worldwide. The risks are low and most side effects are temporary; the suitability examination makes sure that eyes unsuitable for laser are identified beforehand.
- Stinging, watering and light sensitivity for the first 3 days: expected while the surface layer regenerates, and eased by a bandage contact lens and drops.
- Temporary dry eye: common in the first months; artificial tears relieve it and it usually settles on its own.
- Halos and glare at night: may be noticeable in the first weeks and usually disappear as healing progresses.
- Under or over correction: if some of the prescription remains, an additional laser treatment (enhancement) can be carried out in suitable eyes.
- Infection: very rare; it is prevented with the drops prescribed after treatment and simple hygiene measures.
LASEK / PRK / No Touch Laser Surgery Prices
LASEK / PRK / No Touch Laser surgery price varies depending on the underlying cause and the operation to be performed. The treatment plan to be created by our specialist ophthalmologist depending on the detailed examination result may vary from person to person.
iLasik
550 £Per Eye
Femto Lasik (iDesign)
- Accommodation3 Nights
- Included
- 3 Meals a Day
- Included
- Airport TransfersRound-Trip
- Included
- Doctor Examination
- Included
- All Eye Tests
- Included
- Lasik Laser Surgery
- Included
- Surgery Control
- Included
- Pay On-Site
ReLEx SMILE PRO
995 £Per Eye
SMILE PRO
- Both Eyes
- 1,990 £
- Accommodation3 Nights
- Included
- 3 Meals a Day
- Included
- Airport TransfersRound-Trip
- Included
- Doctor Examination
- Included
- All Eye Tests
- Included
- SMILE Laser Surgery
- Included
- Surgery Control
- Included
- Pay On-Site
Why choose Kudret Eye İstanbul for your procedure?
Over 24 years in eye care: three eye hospitals and a general hospital, a team of specialist surgeons and technology renewed every year.
Over 24 years of experience
Hundreds of thousands of successful operations and a name trusted across generations.
The latest technology
World-leading equipment for SMILE PRO, iLASIK and trifocal lenses.
Specialist surgeons
Every treatment is performed by a surgeon who specialises in it.
Lifetime aftercare
Follow-up checks and, if ever needed, enhancement are our responsibility.
What our patients say
A selection of the reviews they left on Google and Trustpilot.
Eye Surgery
A very kind and professional medical team! The surgery was completely straightforward and was completed relatively quickly. The entire team, and especially Zuhal, my patient coordinator, was always available, incredibly helpful, and genuinely pleasant throughout the whole process. She stayed by my side from start to finish, explained everything thoroughly, and always made sure I understood what was happening. The doctor worked in a very calm and professional manner, and I never felt uncertain or uncomfortable at any point. There were three fresh meals each day: breakfast, lunch, and dinner, and they were all very enjoyable. The hospital rooms were also very clean and well maintained. Overall, I had a very positive experience with this hospital. I’m truly grateful to the entire team and would wholeheartedly recommend this hospital to anyone.
Daliya Chadaev
Eye Surgery
They made the process of coming to a country where I don’t speak the language and having eye surgery (frightening enough in your home town) very easy indeed. I had a wonderful interpreter with me through the entire process every day, she made everything so easy. First class facilities, first class staff and a very convenient location.
Chris
Lens Replacement (Cataract)
My wife and I both had lens replacement here due to both having cataracts. I have to say from start to finish the whole experience was excellent. Careing helpful staff took care of all our needs and queries. Experienced expert surgeon did the operations on both eyes which only takes around 10 to 15 minutes and is completely painless. Excellent aftercare after the operations. Excellent value especially compared to the UK. For the two of us we paid plot less than one operation would cost in the UK. In particular I would like to thank Gem and Zuhan, both of whom speak English, for their care and attention also i would like to thank Dr Mehmet for his expertise. We have been home now for a month or so and our vision just keeps getting better and better as explained. I have no hesitation in recommding this excellent hospital. Thanks for our new eyes.
Mr Sullivan
Eye Laser Surgery (iLASIK)
I visited OE in the UK, which quoted £5,500 for a LASIK surgery on both my eyes. As a result, I subsequently contacted Kudret Goz Istanbul via WhatsApp, and I must say I was very impressed by the level and quality of service. The initial contact person, Cem, was very helpful and explained the process, cost (much more reasonable than the UK clinic), and aftercare procedures very clearly. The doctor that I was assigned was Dr Nail Sönmez, who was very experienced and conducted a very effective iLASIK surgery, which only lasted about 10-15 minutes, and led to a significant improvement in my vision. He was also very transparent about the associated risks involved after the operation and advised how those could be mitigated after the surgery. Although the doctor and Cem spoke English, I was also assigned a translator, Zuhal, who was very friendly and helped me communicate with other hospital staff when needed. Therefore, I highly recommend Kudret Goz Istanbul for any UK resident seeking high-quality LASIK eye surgery at an affordable price.
MMA
Trifocal Lens
I have just returned from having Lens transplantation at Kudret Eye Hospital Istanbul. I was a lone traveller who was terrified at the prospect of eye surgery even having done my research. I have to say ALL the staff at Kudret were absolutely amazing. From 1st contacting them the communication was excellent no question was too much and always received a very prompt response. I was met at the airport in the middle of the night and taken straight to the hospital, was shown to my room. I felt very safe. I had numerous test the following day and then a consultation with the Doctor who advised me of my best implants. There was always someone with me who was able to translate anything said. I had my 1st op that afternoon again I felt safe and very confident with the professionalism of all the staff. Surgery took approximately 20 mins. I had no pain and the next day was able to see near intermediate and distance although not 100% but without glasses. After further checks I then went in for my second surgery. Again all went smoothly. The following day sight had improved even more in my 1st eye and then on removal of my eye patch my 2nd eye sight was great. I am thrilled to be glasses free and my vision improves every day. I was told it can take between 1 -3 weeks for the full result. I was given eye drops for home and full care instructions. I am very grateful to all those involved in my journey Thank you.
Lesley Parkinson
Eye Laser Surgery (Femto-LASIK)
Outstanding care from start to finish. The team ensured I was fully briefed before and upon my arrival, and I felt reassured throughout the entire procedure. Jem, Dr Mehmet Ali Ozdil and Zuhal delivered exceptional service and made me feel completely at ease during my Femto‑LASIK surgery. Note, following their simple aftercare instructions is also key to recovery.
Ali Saadat
YAG Laser
Easy process to book appointment, clear communication throughout. The hospital I clean and well-equipped. The staff friendly and helpful. A translator on hand from the moment I arrived until I left The preparation and tests pror to the Yag laser procedure, faultless. Clear information given on each part if the process. The procedure was painless, and no ill effects and I could see clearly about 30 minutes after the procedure. I cannot recommend them enough .
Sheila Pemberton
Lens Replacement
As someone who doesn't write reviews, I feel that this is an important opportunity to reach out to others. I was full of doubts , insecurity and skepticism about this procedure. I bought into all the negatives and downsides of lens replacement surgery , Whilst doing my research . After speaking to Jem , who put no pressure on me to sell me this . I trusted and respected him . There are many places in Turkey ( Medical tourism). , who are pushy , and run clinics offering , Hair , teeth , eyes ect. Kudret goz is a eye hospital that specializes in just eyes. I did arrive nervous, But saw how professional they are. The staff were super and so friendly, From the cleaners , security, receptionists and doctors . The place was spotless and I was comfortable, even 3 hospital meals per day. I'm amazed that my results are immediate. I can see perfectly 20/20 vision both eyes . No halos . Minimal irritation in eyes after op for an hour or 2. I'm amazed at how easy it is . I flew back to Bristol and drove back to South wales late at night . And my eyes at night were spot on . I'm delighted to not be wearing glasses anymore. Which Is given me freedom and a new confidence. I ride motorbikes and can't wait to get out on the bike 🏍. Looking forward to snooker , swimming and playing football. No glasses . My advice would be not to read to much ( scare mongering tactics) i would recommend this to everyone , family , friends and anyone who wants to listen . Best couple of grand I've ever spent . Update . 1 month on perfect vision . No problems.
Shaun O'Brien
Eye Laser Surgery
My sister and I recently traveled from London to Istanbul for laser eye operations, and I cannot rave enough about the exceptional care we received at Kudret Göz. Despite arriving at 4:30 AM, our pre-booked transport was seamlessly ready, whisking us directly to the hospital. From the moment we stepped through the doors, the warm welcome and hospitality made us feel instantly at ease. We were promptly shown to our rooms, and the staff's genuine kindness and attentiveness completely calmed any pre-operation jitters. They truly went above and beyond to ensure we felt relaxed and comfortable throughout the entire process. Beyond the outstanding medical care, the hospital's location is a huge bonus. Theres a massive mall called the Nautilus less than a 5 minute walk away from the hospital. It has amazing food spots along with some familiar ones. Overall, I'm beyond delighted with my experience at Kudret Göz. I was truly astounded by the immense effort they put in to ensure such a seamless and positive visit, all at an incredibly fair price!!
Noman Habibi
Eye Laser Surgery (LASIK)
Hello, so I went to Optical Express in UK but they quoted me an insanely high price for LASIK Surgery. After conducting research on multiple different hospitals and eye surgery places in Turkey. I settled on Kudret Goz. Throughout the entire period they were helpful in answering all my questions and very supportive. They have very experienced doctors who perform LASIK surgery multiple times a day for 20 years plus using the latest Johnson and Johnson technology. As soon as I landed at the airport they picked me up, dropped me at the hospital where I had my own comfortable room. They provided breakfast, lunch and dinner. In the morning they conducted tests to check my vision and if I’m feasible for the surgery, the same evening the surgery happened. I was nervous but It lasted 5 - 10 minutes and rested in my room that evening taking eye drops and disinfect eye drops every hour. The next day I woke up and my vision had become incredibly better, with every passing hour it got better and better. Within 24 hours my vision was incredibly clear and I was amazed. Thank you for operating the surgery and truly providing a life changing experience. For the price and quality of service Kudret Goz is unrivalled.
HIBSHY SAMSADIN
Eye Laser Surgery (LASIK)
I’m very happy I chose to have my LASIK procedure done at Kudret Göz in Istanbul. From the beginning, the communication was excellent. They speak very good English and were quick to respond to all my questions via text, which made the entire process much easier. On the day of the operation, everything moved efficiently and smoothly. I felt completely comfortable during each test and step of the procedure. The doctor also spoke excellent English and took the time to reassure me with all my questions. The rest of the staff were incredibly helpful and professional, and the clinic itself was very clean and well-organized. I would highly recommend Kudret Göz to anyone considering LASIK.
Sophia Wilkinson
Examination and imaging devices
Johnson & Johnson Vision
iDesign Advanced WaveScan Studio
The measurement device that captures the eye’s optical “fingerprint”. In a single scan it records refractive error at over 1,200 points, corneal topography and pupil metrics. The map is passed to the excimer laser, so treatment follows your eye’s own map rather than a standard prescription.
Why we chose this device
A spectacle prescription is a coarse summary of the eye's refractive error; this device takes thousands of separate readings across the same eye and maps them. Laser treatment is then planned around that eye's own pattern rather than an average figure, which is where night vision is won or lost.
Tracey Technologies
iTrace
A vision-quality analyser that splits the eye’s total refractive error into the parts coming from the cornea and from the natural lens. One of the measurements the surgeon relies on when deciding between laser and lens replacement, and when choosing a trifocal lens.
Why we chose this device
One of the methods that can tell whether a visual complaint comes from the cornea or from the lens inside the eye. That distinction changes the treatment: a corneal cause calls for laser, a lens cause for lens exchange. By ray-tracing the two separately, it keeps patients from being steered to the wrong procedure.
Laser systems
ZEISS VisuMax 800
The femtosecond laser behind ReLEx SMILE PRO. It creates a thin lenticule inside the cornea and removes it through a 2-4 mm incision; no flap is cut. Lenticule cutting takes under 10 seconds per eye and the device tracks eye movement to centre itself.
Why we chose this device
On this laser the lenticule cut in SMILE takes seconds; the shorter the eye has to be held still, the smaller the margin for error from patient movement. Its eye tracking keeps the cut on the planned axis even if the eye shifts.
ZEISS VISUMAX 500
The femtosecond laser the ReLEx SMILE technique was developed on. It shapes a thin lens (lenticule) inside the cornea and removes it through a small incision, without raising a flap on the surface. A suction ring holds the eye with gentle contact, and the curved interface, matched to the eye's own curvature, spreads the pressure.
Why we chose this device
Most of the SMILE literature rests on results gathered on this platform, so the long-term data for the technique comes from this very device. Having it alongside the VISUMAX 800 means two femtosecond lasers: we can run two rooms on the same day, and a service visit does not push the surgery schedule.
Johnson & Johnson Vision
IntraLase iFS 150 kHz
The first step of iLASIK: the corneal flap is created 100 % blade-free with a femtosecond laser instead of a blade. At 150 kHz the flap forms in seconds, at the exact thickness and shape the surgeon sets, far more predictable than the older microkeratome. The device is the first link in the iLASIK platform developed by Abbott Medical Optics, today part of Johnson & Johnson Vision.
Why we chose this device
Creating the flap with a laser rather than a blade keeps its thickness uniform to the micron across the whole cornea. The 150 kHz speed shortens the step, and the bevelled edge lets the flap seat back more securely.
Ziemer
FEMTO LDV Z8
A mobile femtosecond laser usable in both corneal and cataract surgery. Its pulse energy is very low and its repetition rate very high, so cuts are formed from small overlapping spots. It can raise a flap, and in cataract surgery it opens the front capsule of the lens and fragments the lens itself. Being on wheels, the laser comes to the table rather than the patient being moved.
Why we chose this device
Opening the front capsule by hand is one of the steps in cataract surgery that most depends on the surgeon's experience; a laser-made capsulotomy comes out the same diameter and centred in every patient, which helps the intraocular lens sit where it should. That the device can be brought to the patient matters too: nobody is moved from one table to another mid-procedure.
Johnson & Johnson Vision
VISX STAR S4 IR Excimer
The excimer laser of iLASIK’s second step. It reshapes corneal tissue with micron precision; infrared eye tracking keeps every pulse on target even if the eye moves. Paired with iDesign measurements it delivers a fully personalised (wavefront-guided) treatment. This laser is part of the iLASIK platform developed by Abbott Medical Optics, today part of Johnson & Johnson Vision.
Why we chose this device
Infrared eye tracking measures the small involuntary movements of the eye hundreds of times a second and keeps the laser on the same spot. Its variable spot size removes only as much tissue as needed, and the less cornea spent now, the more margin remains for a later touch-up.
We keep renewing our equipment
Devices in eye care change quickly, and a newer system often means a shorter, more comfortable or more precise examination. We have renewed our equipment regularly since the day we opened, bringing new-generation systems into the clinic. This page is not fixed either: when a new device arrives, it is added here.
Our technology and partners
The manufacturers and institutions we work with in our treatments.
How it works
Your treatment journey
Surface laser treatment follows three steps: a thorough suitability examination, a procedure of 5-10 minutes for both eyes and a schedule of follow-up visits. Here is what happens at each stage, so you know what to expect.
Step 1
Pre-operative examination
We measure corneal thickness and shape, pupil size, tear film and your prescription in detail. Based on the results your surgeon confirms whether surface laser treatment is suitable for you and what outcome to expect. You will be asked to stop wearing contact lenses for the period your doctor specifies before the examination.
Step 2
Surgery
No corneal flap is created. In LASEK and PRK the thin surface epithelium is lifted; in No Touch the laser removes that layer as well, without any instrument touching the cornea. The excimer laser then reshapes the corneal surface to your own measurements. The procedure is done under anaesthetic drops and takes 5-10 minutes in total, with the laser itself working for 20-30 seconds per eye. You go home the same day with a companion.
Step 3
Follow-up and healing
A protective contact lens is worn for a few days while the epithelium regrows and the stinging and light sensitivity settle. The first check is the next day, with further visits at one week, one month and three months. For most patients vision improves largely in the first week and fully settles in 2-4 weeks.
Recovery after laser eye surgery, day by day
Recovery after laser eye surgery is quick; after iLASIK and SMILE most patients are back to their daily routine the next day; after PRK and No Touch this takes a few days. The timeline below summarises what to expect in the first three months.
First 4 hours
Right after surgery
Burning, stinging, watering and light sensitivity are normal in the first hours. Rest with your eyes closed, do not rub them and start the prescribed drops straight away. Do not shower for the first 24 hours.
Day 1
Follow-up examination
The next day your surgeon checks corneal healing and visual acuity. After iLASIK and SMILE vision is already noticeably clearer for most patients at this stage; after PRK and No Touch it clears more slowly, with full clarity taking 2-4 weeks. Short periods of screen use are fine.
First days
Back to work
After iLASIK and SMILE you can usually return to desk work the next day; after PRK and No Touch within a few days. Do not rub your eyes, avoid dusty and smoky places and wear sunglasses outdoors.
Week 1
Back to daily life
Light exercise is allowed; avoid swimming pools and the sea for about 20 days, and saunas and eye make-up during the first week. Continue the drop schedule set by your doctor; it is reviewed at the one-week visit.
Month 1
Vision settles
Vision settles during this period; haloes around lights at night and any dryness gradually fade. The one-month visit assesses the result and adjusts the drop plan if needed.
Month 3
Final check
Corneal healing is largely complete; the three-month visit measures the final result and closes the follow-up. After that a routine yearly eye examination is enough.
Recovery times differ from person to person; this timeline is for information only.
Appointment
Book your suitability examination
Measurements and the consultation with your surgeon are completed in a single visit; you leave knowing whether laser treatment suits you and which method fits your eyes.
- Measurements and consultation on the same day
- A clear treatment plan and price before you decide
Frequently Asked Questions
What is LASEK and how is the operation performed?
LASEK is a laser treatment method used to correct refractive errors in the eye. During the operation, the epithelial tissue is removed with softening medication and the cornea is shaped using an excimer laser. This method is frequently used in the treatment of myopia, astigmatism and hyperopia.
What are the advantages of LASEK treatment?
LASEK has the advantages of a low risk of complications and permanent results, although recovery takes longer than with iLASIK. It is also considered a very safe method as the corneal structure is not disturbed.
Who can undergo LASEK surgery?
LASEK treatment can be applied to all patients over 18 whose eye structure is suitable; for those over 45, lens options are also considered. Treatment can be performed in cases where the refractive error in the eye is fixed and the corneal thickness is sufficient.
How is LASEK treatment performed?
In LASEK treatment, the epithelium is first removed with tissue softening medication and then the cornea is shaped with excimer laser. The epithelium is restored after the treatment.
What is PRK and how is the operation performed?
PRK (Photo Refractive Keratectomy) is the process of softening and stripping the epithelial layer on the cornea and then reshaping the cornea with excimer laser. No flap is created in the cornea with this method.
What are the advantages of PRK treatment?
With PRK no flap is created in the cornea, so more corneal tissue is preserved. The surface layer that is removed grows back within a few days.
What is No Touch laser treatment?
In No Touch laser treatment, treatment is applied with a laser beam without touching the eye surface. This method is used in the treatment of myopia, astigmatism and hyperopia and patients do not feel pain during the procedure.
How is No Touch laser treatment applied?
In No Touch laser treatment, anaesthetic drops are instilled into the eye and laser beams are applied directly to the eye. This procedure is completed in a very short time without contact with the device.
What are the differences between PRK and No Touch laser treatment?
In PRK, the epithelial layer on the cornea is softened and scraped off, whereas in No Touch laser, the surface of the eye is not touched and the laser beams are applied directly. Healing times are similar and vary from person to person.
How long is the recovery period after LASEK surgery?
After LASEK surgery, vision is fully recovered within 2-4 weeks. There may be mild discomfort in the first few days, but the quality of vision improves quickly.
How does the healing process work after PRK treatment?
After PRK treatment you can usually return to daily life within 3-4 days, and full recovery takes 2-4 weeks.
What are the differences between LASEK and PRK?
LASEK removes the epithelial tissue on the cornea by softening it, while in PRK this tissue is scraped off and allowed to grow back. Healing times and success rates are similar for both methods, and recovery varies from person to person.
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References
- 1.Photorefractive Keratectomy · EyeWiki
- 2.LASEK · EyeWiki
- 3.What Is Photorefractive Keratectomy (PRK)? · AAO