There are several laser vision correction procedures available to help you stop wearing glasses and contacts. At Aqua I Laser we keep the long-term eye health, safety, and comfort of our patients in mind— that’s why we offer TransPRK.

The Evolution of Laser Eye Surgery

Laser vision correction has come a long way since it was first introduced in the 1980s. PRK (photorefractive keratectomy) was the first laser eye surgery available, and it’s still a proven, effective option. In PRK, the surgeon removes the thin outer layer of the cornea, called the epithelium, using an alcohol solution, blade or brush, before using the laser to reshape the cornea and correct vision.

While PRK delivered excellent results, it required a longer recovery period and caused temporary discomfort as the corneal surface healed. This led to the development of LASIK, which instead created a flap in the cornea before applying the laser. After, the flap would be positioned to its original spot. LASIK offered faster visual recovery, but it also introduced new risks, such as dryer eyes and flap displacement.

What Makes TransPRK Different

TransPRK is a no-touch, no-cut procedure. Instead of using alcohol or a mechanical tool, the laser itself gently removes the epithelium and reshapes the cornea in one precise step. The process takes less than 60 seconds per eye.The surface of the cornea regenerates naturally under a temporary contact bandage lens within a few days.

Compared to other laser surgeries, TransPRK is:

• Less invasive: No incisions or flaps are created.
• More comfortable: Patients typically experience less post-operative discomfort than with traditional PRK.
• Safer for more eyes: It preserves more corneal tissue, making it suitable for people who were told they can’t have LASIK.

Who Can Benefit from TransPRK

One of the greatest strengths of TransPRK is its broader eligibility. Not everyone qualifies for LASIK but many of those patients can safely undergo TransPRK.

TransPRK is particularly beneficial for:

• People with thin or irregular corneas: Since no flap is created, less corneal tissue is altered.
• Those with dry eyes: The surface nerves of the cornea are better preserved, reducing dryness during recovery.
• Individuals with high prescriptions
• Contact sport athletes and military personnel: Because there’s no corneal flap, there’s no risk of it shifting during impact or intense physical activity.
  

Dry eye symptoms affect up to 30% of Canadians, making TransPRK a gentler option for a large number of people. Patients who’ve been told they’re not candidates for LASIK due to corneal thickness or dryness often find that TransPRK offers them a safe and effective alternative.

Healing and Recovery

After TransPRK, a temporary contact lens bandage is placed on the eye to protect the surface while the epithelium naturally regenerates. Most patients resume most normal activities within a week and they gain back 90% of their vision within two weeks. While visual recovery can take longer than LASIK, the end results, clear, stable vision, are the same or better for many patients.

The Bottom Line

If you’ve been considering laser eye surgery but aren’t sure which procedure is right for you, it’s worth learning more about TransPRK. Whether you’ve been told you’re not a LASIK candidate, have dry eyes, or simply want the safest and most advanced option available, TransPRK may be the solution you’ve been waiting for.

Book your complimentary consultation today to discover if TransPRK is right for you.