Trans-PRK (No-Touch) in Korea: Cost, Candidacy & Recovery
What is Trans-PRK?
Trans-PRK (transepithelial PRK) is a version of PRK where the laser does everything. The excimer laser first ablates the thin surface layer (epithelium) and then reshapes the stroma beneath it in a single, continuous treatment, so nothing touches the cornea except light.
In conventional PRK the epithelium is scraped away with an instrument, and in LASEK it is loosened with dilute alcohol. In single-step Trans-PRK, as described in Cataract & Refractive Surgery Today by Awwad and Arba Mosquera, the SCHWIND AMARIS laser removes about 55 µm of epithelium centrally and about 65 µm toward the edge, following the average thickness profile, then applies the refractive correction without recentring. Korean clinics often market this as 'all-laser LASEK' or 'no-touch' surface correction.
How does it compare with PRK, LASEK and LASIK?
Trans-PRK gives the same flap-free strength as PRK and LASEK with somewhat faster surface healing, but it is still slower to recover than LASIK.
| Procedure | Epithelium removed by | Flap | Typical surface healing | Seoul price, both eyes |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Trans-PRK | Laser | No | About 2–4 days | About ₩1.3M–₩2.5M |
| PRK | Instrument (brush/blade) | No | About 3–5 days | ₩1.3M–₩2.2M |
| LASEK | Dilute alcohol | No | About 3–5 days | ₩1.5M–₩2.5M |
| LASIK | Not removed (flap) | Yes | 1–2 days | ₩1.5M–₩2.5M |
In a prospective study cited in the same CRST article (Fadlallah et al, 50 eyes per group), the epithelium healed in 2.5 ± 0.6 days after Trans-PRK versus 3.7 ± 0.8 days after alcohol-assisted PRK, and fewer Trans-PRK patients called back with sharp pain. A contralateral one-year comparison (Luger et al, 66 eyes) found essentially the same final vision and refraction for both methods. For the wider surface-versus-flap decision, read LASIK vs PRK and PRK vs LASEK in Korea.
Why would I choose a surface treatment over LASIK or SMILE?
The main reason is structural: no flap or cap is created, so there is nothing that can be dislodged by a later blow to the eye, and more of the cornea's strength is preserved. That makes surface treatments a common choice for people with borderline corneal thickness and for those in contact sports or uniformed services. The trade-off is time. LASIK and SMILE let most people see well the next day, while Trans-PRK needs several days of surface healing and a few weeks for vision to sharpen fully.
For travellers this changes the plan more than the price. You will want a longer stay, a quiet hotel for the first two or three days, and someone to help you get to the follow-up when your eyes are light-sensitive. Our guide to staying near Gangnam eye clinics lists practical bases within short taxi rides.
What happens on treatment day?
After a final check of your measurements, numbing drops are applied and a lid holder keeps the eye open. The laser removes the epithelium and treats the stroma in one continuous run lasting well under a minute per eye; you look at a fixation light while an eye-tracker follows small movements. A chilled solution may be used to cool the surface, and a bandage contact lens goes on at the end. Most people are in the laser room for 10–15 minutes and leave with antibiotic and anti-inflammatory drops, pain relief and sunglasses.
How much does Trans-PRK cost in Seoul?
Most Seoul clinics price all-laser surface treatment within the same band as PRK and LASEK, about ₩1.3 million to ₩2.5 million for both eyes (approximately $950–$1,900). Promotional prices can fall below this: a Seocho clinic on Modoodoc showed all-laser LASEK at ₩740,000 (event) and ₩1.3 million (regular) in October 2026, with wavefront, corneal strengthening and serum drops as paid extras. A medical-tourism directory (Bookimed) notes that Trans-PRK often costs more than basic LASEK, so compare like with like. For reference, a Singapore guide quotes S$3,500–S$4,500 for both eyes. See PRK cost in Korea and LASEK cost in Korea for what packages include.
Who is Trans-PRK best for?
It suits people for whom a flap is a disadvantage.
- Thinner corneas where preserving tissue matters (see corneal thickness for LASIK)
- Contact sports, martial arts, military or police work
- Low to moderate myopia with or without astigmatism
- People who are anxious about instruments touching the eye
It is not suitable for keratoconus, unstable prescriptions, uncontrolled dry eye or pregnancy, and very high prescriptions may be better served by lenses such as ICL. Higher corrections remove more tissue and carry a greater haze risk with any surface method, so your surgeon will weigh ablation depth against the corneal thickness measured at your exam before recommending Trans-PRK.
What is recovery like?
Expect a slower start than LASIK. A bandage contact lens protects the eye for several days.
| Time | What to expect |
|---|---|
| Days 1–3 | Light sensitivity, watering, grittiness; pain is usually worst on days 1–2 |
| Days 3–5 | Epithelium closes; bandage lens removed at a check-up |
| Weeks 1–4 | Vision improves but can fluctuate |
| Months 1–3 | Vision stabilises; steroid drops tapered to limit haze |
Plan 5–7 days in Seoul so the bandage lens can be removed before you fly. Our LASEK recovery and pain guide applies closely to Trans-PRK.
What are the risks?
Risks include early pain, temporary blur, corneal haze, infection while the surface heals, dry eye, and under- or over-correction needing enhancement. Strict use of drops and UV protection lowers haze risk. This is general information; a full exam and an ophthalmologist's advice are essential.
Sources
Key facts
- Method: Laser removes epithelium and stroma in one step; no flap, blade or alcohol
- Seoul price: About ₩1.3M–₩2.5M for both eyes (approx. $950–$1,900)
- Common laser: SCHWIND AMARIS
- Healing: Epithelium closes in about 2–4 days
- Stay: Plan 5–7 days in Seoul
- Compare: PRK surgery in Korea
Related guides
Independent directory. Prices are typical ranges reported by Seoul clinics and change often. Always confirm a written quote and get a full eye exam before booking. This page is general information, not medical advice.
FAQ
Frequently asked questions
Is Trans-PRK painful?
The procedure itself is painless under numbing drops, but the first two days afterwards are often sore and light-sensitive. Studies suggest less pain than alcohol-assisted PRK, though it is still more uncomfortable than LASIK.
Is Trans-PRK the same as all-laser LASEK?
Korean clinics often use 'all-laser LASEK' for a no-touch transepithelial surface treatment. Ask which laser and technique the clinic uses.
How long does Trans-PRK take to heal?
The surface usually closes in about 2–4 days, functional vision returns within about a week, and final vision settles over 1–3 months.
Is Trans-PRK safer than LASIK?
It avoids flap complications and leaves more corneal strength, but has more early discomfort and a small haze risk. Neither is universally safer; the right choice depends on your exam.
Can I fly home after Trans-PRK?
Yes, usually after the bandage lens is removed at around day 4–5. Use lubricating drops on the flight.
Planning vision correction in Seoul?
Compare clinics by district, check 2026 price ranges, and read our step-by-step planning guide for international patients.