Overview
About LASIK & Refractive Surgery
LASIK uses a laser to create a thin corneal flap, and an excimer laser then reshapes the underlying tissue to correct the prescription. Surface treatments such as PRK reshape the cornea without a flap and may be preferred for thinner corneas.
For prescriptions outside the range of laser correction, implantable contact lenses (phakic IOLs) or refractive lens exchange may be considered.
Suitability depends on corneal thickness and shape, prescription stability, general eye health and lifestyle. An honest assessment sometimes concludes that glasses or contact lenses remain the best option.
Reasons to consult
Common symptoms & reasons for a visit
- Wishing to reduce dependence on glasses or contact lenses
- Contact lens intolerance or discomfort
- Occupational or sporting needs for clear uncorrected vision
- A stable prescription for at least 12 months
Diagnosis
How the condition is evaluated
- 01
Corneal topography & tomography
Maps corneal shape and thickness to screen for irregularities.
- 02
Refraction (dry & dilated)
Confirms the exact prescription to be treated.
- 03
Tear film assessment
Dry eye is evaluated and treated before surgery where needed.
- 04
Pupil & retina examination
Ensures the eye is otherwise healthy and suitable.
Treatment
Available treatment approaches
LASIK
Flap-based laser correction with typically rapid visual recovery.
PRK / surface ablation
No-flap laser treatment suited to certain corneal profiles, with a longer initial recovery.
Implantable lenses
A lens placed inside the eye for higher prescriptions or thinner corneas.
Refractive lens exchange
Replacement of the natural lens, sometimes considered for patients over 45.
The right approach depends on an individual examination. This page does not provide a diagnosis or guarantee any outcome.
Your visit
What patients can generally expect
- The screening appointment takes around two hours and includes dilating drops; you should not drive afterwards.
- Contact lens wearers are usually asked to stop wearing lenses for a period before measurements.
- Laser treatment itself takes minutes per eye; recovery time depends on the procedure.
- Outcomes vary between individuals, and the risks and limitations are discussed openly before any decision.
FAQs
Frequently asked questions
Suitability can only be determined after a full assessment of corneal thickness and shape, prescription stability and eye health. Some patients are better suited to surface treatment or lens-based options, and some to continued glasses or contacts.
Specialists
Related specialists
SampleMBBS · MS (Ophthalmology) · Fellowship, Cataract & Refractive Surgery
Cataract & Refractive Surgery
Dr. Arjun Mehra
Consultant Ophthalmologist
MBBS, MS (Ophthalmology), Fellowship, Cataract & Refractive Surgery
16+ yrs experience
View profile
Medical review notice: This page contains general, informational content for a demonstration website. It must be reviewed and approved by qualified ophthalmologists before real-world publication.
