TransPRK, or Trans-Epithelial Photorefractive Keratectomy, is a refractive surgery that reshapes the cornea with a laser to enhance vision. This procedure has grown in popularity recently due to its numerous advantages, including a shorter recovery period and fewer side effects than other refractive surgeries. Many people wonder whether they will be able to journey after undergoing TransPRK. So let’s look at what patients experience after a TransPRK surgery and how long they can travel after their surgery.
Procedure of TransPRK Surgery
TransPRK is a refractive surgery that uses an advanced and touch-free laser to remove the epithelium in the eye, and there is no use of a blade, suction, or flap. Also, no alcohol is used throughout the procedure. This surgery helps treat refractive errors like Astigmatism, Myopia (Nearsightedness), and Hyperopia (Farsightedness). This surgery also helps the patient by reducing their dependency on glasses and contact glasses.
The whole vision correction procedure in this surgery is quick, which is the reason why this surgery is preferred over so many surgeries. Also, any risk of a potential flap is highly eliminated in this surgery, thus making it a perfect option for people with high myopia and thin cornea.
The surgery procedure is quite fast and simple, using a highly advanced and fast laser machine. Also, to ensure that the patients get a safe and secure treatment, the machine used in the surgery is equipped with a zero latency tracker. One of the most amazing and reassuring things for patients going through this surgery is there is no involvement of any surgical instrument which will touch their eyes.
The procedure begins when the special laser removes the epithelium cells from the eyes. After that, the laser works towards reshaping the curvature of the cornea in just a single step which corrects the eye’s refractive power. After the cornea’s reshaping is done, a soft contact lens that will act as an artificial cornea flap will be placed over the cornea in the eye for its protection in the overall healing process.
After 3 to 5 days, the epithelium cells ate regenerated as it’s all the time they take for regeneration, and after this process, the contact lens gets removed. Now comes the healing process of the eye, and to begin first, the patients are suggested to stay away from strong sunlight. They will prescribe some eye drops, which they must use religiously as the doctor suggests, for 6 to 10 weeks after the surgical procedure. In 1 to 3 months, the patient gets fully visually recovery.
Benefits of getting a TransPRK Surgery
Besides the surgery being a non-invasive surface-based procedure and touch-free, there are various other amazing benefits of getting TransPRK Surgery. One of the major benefits of the surgery, which attracts so many people towards this surgery, is how simple and fast is the whole procedure.
Usually, when a patient hears the word surgery, it feels a little scary to them, but this surgery is merely a one-step procedure and only takes 3 to 5 minutes in a single eye of the patients.
It is a great alternative for people who, for some reason, are not eligible for Lasik surgery. Thus people not eligible for Lasik surgery still have hope for their eyes due to this surgery. Also, any risk for a dry eye is minimized in this surgery; on the other dry eye is a common side effect in many surgeries.
Traveling after TransPRK Surgery
First, it’s important to note that every individual’s recovery from TransPRK will be different, and it’s essential to follow your doctor’s directions carefully. Typically, your vision will be blurry after TransPRK, and your eyes may be sensitive to light for a few days to a week. For example, swimming, hot tubs, and dusty settings should be avoided during this period.
It is usually safe to travel by car or other modes of transportation within a day or two of the procedure. However, some precautions must be taken to ensure your eyes are protected and comfortable during the trip. Here are some travel safety recommendations after TransPRK:
Wear sunglasses
Because your eyes will be more sensitive to light after TransPRK, wearing sunglasses outside or in bright places is critical. Choose sunglasses with complete UV protection that wrap around your eyes for maximum coverage.
Use eye drops
After TransPRK, your doctor will most likely recommend eye drops to help lubricate your eyes and reduce inflammation. Use these drops exactly as instructed, and bring them when you travel. Bring a compact cooler with ice packs to keep the drops cool and refreshing on your trip.
Take breaks
Whether going by car or plane, taking breaks and resting your eyes is critical. Take a break every hour to stretch your legs, sip water, and close your eyes for a few minutes. If you’re flying, pack a sleep mask or eye shades to help block out light and reduce eye strain.
Avoid touching your eyes.
Your eyes may be itchy or irritated after TransPRK, but you should avoid rubbing them. Rubbing your eyes can increase the chance of infection and slow down the healing process. Instead, apply a cool compress to your eyes or gently pat them with a clean cloth to alleviate discomfort.
Bring a travel pillow.
If you’re flying, a travel pillow can help you sleep easily while avoiding eye strain. Choose a pillow that provides neck and head support and can be adjusted to your desired level of firmness.
It is also critical to consider the timing of your travel arrangements following TransPRK. While it is usually safe to travel within a day or two of the procedure, lengthy journeys requiring significant physical exertion or exposure to harsh environments should be avoided for at least a week or two. This will allow your eyes to heal and decrease the likelihood of complications.
Thus, traveling after the TransPRK is usually safe if you take measures to protect your eyes and carefully follow your doctor’s instructions. Wear sunglasses, apply eye drops, take frequent breaks, avoid rubbing your eyes, and bring a travel pillow if required. By following these procedures, you can have a safe and comfortable journey after TransPRK and continue to enjoy the benefits of improved vision for years to come.
