What Is Refractive Surgery? Improving Vision
Refractive surgery changes how the eye focuses light to reduce dependence on glasses or contact lenses. Corneal laser procedures and lens-based surgery use different methods and are not suitable for everyone.
Main types
- LASIK: reshapes the cornea beneath a flap.
- PRK: reshapes the corneal surface without a flap.
- SMILE: removes a small piece of corneal tissue through a small incision.
- Lens procedures: use an implanted lens or replace the natural lens in selected patients.
Assessment
A comprehensive eye examination should review prescription stability, corneal shape and thickness, tear film, pupils, retina, glaucoma or cataract, health, medicines and previous surgery. The chosen procedure depends on these findings and personal visual needs.
Limits and risks
Surgery may reduce glasses dependence but cannot guarantee 20/20 vision or eliminate future glasses. Risks include dry eye, glare, halos, double or blurred vision, infection, healing problems, under- or over-correction and further treatment. Rarely, reduced vision can be permanent.
See Revitalize’s PRK guide, LASIK information and consultation route. Independent guidance is available from the National Eye Institute.
General information only.