background

Refractive Surgery

Refractive Surgery

Refractive surgery is a type of eye surgery aimed at improving vision by correcting refractive errors such as nearsightedness (myopia), farsightedness (hyperopia), and astigmatism. The goal of refractive surgery is to reduce or eliminate the need for glasses or contact lenses.

Before undergoing any type of refractive surgery, it's essential to undergo a comprehensive eye examination and consultation with an eye care professional to determine candidacy and discuss the most suitable treatment options based on your eye health, refractive error, lifestyle, and expectations.

Here are some common types of refractive surgery:

  • LASIK (Laser-Assisted In Situ Keratomileusis) : LASIK is one of the most popular types of refractive surgery. It involves creating a thin flap on the cornea, then using a laser to reshape the underlying corneal tissue to correct the refractive error. The flap is then repositioned. LASIK is typically performed to correct myopia, hyperopia, and astigmatism.
  • PRK (Photorefractive Keratectomy): PRK is similar to LASIK but involves removing the outer layer of the cornea (epithelium) before reshaping the cornea with a laser. PRK is often recommended for individuals with thin corneas or other corneal irregularities. The recovery time for PRK is longer compared to LASIK because the epithelium needs to regenerate.
  • LASEK (Laser Epithelial Keratomileusis) : TLASEK combines elements of both LASIK and PRK. It involves creating a thinner flap of epithelium compared to LASIK, then using a laser to reshape the cornea. After the cornea is reshaped, the flap is repositioned. LASEK may be recommended for individuals with thinner corneas or those who are not suitable candidates for LASIK.
  • SMILE (Small Incision Lenticule Extraction) : SMILE is a newer type of refractive surgery that uses a femtosecond laser to create a small disc-shaped piece of tissue (lenticule) within the cornea, which is then removed through a small incision. This reshapes the cornea and corrects the refractive error. SMILE may offer advantages such as faster recovery and reduced risk of dry eye compared to LASIK.
  • Refractive Lens Exchange (RLE) : RLE involves removing the eye's natural lens and replacing it with an artificial intraocular lens (IOL) to correct refractive errors. RLE is typically recommended for individuals with high degrees of hyperopia or presbyopia (age-related near vision loss) who may not be suitable candidates for LASIK or PRK.
  • Implantable Collamer Lens (ICL) : ICL is a type of refractive surgery where a small, implantable lens is inserted into the eye in front of the natural lens to correct refractive errors. It can be an option for individuals with moderate to severe myopia or those with thinner corneas who are not candidates for LASIK or PRK.