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People often ask which type of LASIK is best. There is no single procedure that is best for everyone. The suitable option depends on the individual eye and is selected after a careful examination, not from the glasses prescription alone.
Common laser vision-correction techniques
PRK surface laser
Vision correction is performed on the corneal surface without creating a flap. Recovery is usually longer than LASIK, but PRK may be suitable for selected eyes depending on corneal shape and thickness.
Conventional LASIK
A thin corneal flap is created with a dedicated precision instrument, then laser treatment reshapes the cornea to correct the refractive error.
Femto-LASIK
The principle is similar to LASIK, but the corneal flap is created with a femtosecond laser before the corrective laser treatment.
SMILE
Vision correction is performed through a small corneal opening without creating a large flap. It may suit selected levels of short-sightedness and astigmatism after assessment.
Custom laser treatment
Treatment is more highly personalised using detailed eye measurements and mapping. It is not always a separate procedure and may be combined with LASIK or PRK depending on the cornea.
How is the appropriate option selected?
A comprehensive eye examination comes first. It may include:
- Accurate measurement of short-sightedness, long-sightedness and astigmatism.
- Corneal examination, mapping and thickness measurement.
- Assessment of dry eye and the tear film.
- Examination of the front of the eye.
- Retinal and optic-nerve assessment.
- Confirmation that the prescription is stable and suitable for vision correction.
The examination can also identify another eye problem that may need treatment or follow-up before considering surgery.
Is the newest technique always best?
Not necessarily. The choice depends on corneal shape and thickness, the degree of refractive error, dry eye, age, prescription stability and lifestyle. In some cases laser correction may not be the safest choice, and suitable alternatives should be discussed.
Will I never need glasses again?
The aim is to reduce dependence on glasses or contact lenses, but results vary. Reading glasses may still be needed with age because of a natural change in the eye and this does not mean the procedure has failed.
Successful vision correction starts with a thorough examination and choosing the safest suitable option for each eye—not simply the newest procedure name.