Surgical options to correct your vision

24/02/2025

Eliminating or reducing the use of glasses is a common aspiration for many people with myopia, hyperopia, astigmatism, or presbyopia.

Advances in ophthalmology have led to the development of various surgical options to correct these visual impairments.

Lasik (laser-assisted in situ keratomileusis)

This procedure uses a laser to reshape the cornea, correcting the way light enters the eye. A flap is created in the superficial layer of the cornea. Then, the laser reshapes the cornea beneath this flap, which is repositioned at the end of the procedure. It is a very popular technique due to its effectiveness in treating myopia, hyperopia, and astigmatism. It is quick, painless, and allows for almost immediate visual recovery, with most patients resuming their daily activities within 24 hours.

PRK (photorefractive keratectomy)

This is an alternative for those with thin corneas or who are not suitable candidates for Lasik. This procedure also uses a laser to modify the cornea, but no flap is created. Instead, the superficial layer (epithelium) of the cornea is removed to expose the surface that will be treated with the laser. The epithelium naturally regenerates after a few days. Although recovery is slower, it offers long-lasting results similar to Lasik.

SMILE (small incision lenticule extraction)

This minimally invasive technique is ideal for correcting myopia and astigmatism. It uses a laser to extract a lenticule (a small disc of tissue) through a very small incision in the cornea. It provides a quick recovery and better preserves the corneal structure compared to Lasik.

Phakic ICL (implantable collamer lens)

In this procedure, intraocular lenses are implanted between the crystalline lens, the eye’s natural lens, and the iris, without the need to reshape the cornea. It is an ideal option for people with severe myopia or hyperopia or thin corneas. Additionally, it is reversible, as the lenses can be removed or replaced if necessary.

Refractive lens exchange

This technique involves replacing the natural crystalline lens with an artificial intraocular lens. It is mainly recommended for people with presbyopia or high hyperopia and eliminates the risk of developing cataracts in the future. It is a procedure similar to cataract surgery but specifically designed to correct refractive errors.

Which option is best for you?

The choice of procedure will depend on factors such as the type of refractive error, eye health, age, and personal preferences. Therefore, it is essential to undergo a thorough evaluation with a specialised ophthalmologist, who will guide you in finding the most suitable option for your case.

Dr. Anton Barraquer, ophthalmologist at the Barraquer Ophthalmology Centre