28/10/2025
For many people, the dream of waking up and seeing clearly without glasses or contact lenses is a powerful one. Today, that dream can become reality through several vision correction procedures. While LASIK surgery is the most recognized, it's not the only option and it may not be the best for everyone.
At Barraquer, our ophthalmologists evaluate each patient individually, using advanced diagnostic technologies to determine which procedure offers the safest and most effective visual outcome.
Understanding Vision Correction Procedures
Refractive surgery is designed to correct how light focuses on the retina. When the cornea or lens doesn't bend light properly, vision becomes blurry, a condition known as refractive error. Procedures like LASIK, PRK, SMILE, and ICL implantation each address this issue differently.
LASIK & FemtoLASIK Surgery: The Gold Standard in Precision Vision Correction
LASIK (Laser-Assisted In Situ Keratomileusis), including FemtoLASIK, remains one of the most widely performed and trusted refractive procedures worldwide. At Barraquer, it’s performed using advanced femtosecond and excimer laser systems for unmatched precision.
How it works:
A thin flap is created on the cornea, then a laser reshapes the underlying tissue to correct refractive errors like myopia, hyperopia, and astigmatism. The flap is repositioned afterward, allowing rapid healing. In FemtoLASIK, the flap is created using a femtosecond laser instead of a mechanical blade, enhancing safety and precision.
Benefits:
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Fast recovery (most patients resume daily activities within 24 hours).
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Minimal discomfort.
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Long-term stability of results.
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Suitable for many refractive errors.
Considerations:
Not every patient is a LASIK candidate. Corneal thickness, curvature, and overall eye health must be carefully assessed which is why pre-surgical testing at Barraquer is critical.
PRK: The Original Laser Vision Correction
Photorefractive Keratectomy (PRK) is an earlier form of laser vision correction that reshapes the cornea without creating a flap. Instead, the outer layer (epithelium) is gently removed before applying the excimer laser.
When PRK is preferred:
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Patients with thinner corneas.
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People involved in contact sports where flap injury risk is higher.
Recovery takes longer than LASIK, but visual results are similar once healing is complete.
SMILE: Minimally Invasive and Flap-Free
SMILE (Small Incision Lenticule Extraction) is one of the latest developments in laser vision correction. It involves creating a tiny lenticule within the cornea and removing it through a small incision with no flap required.
Advantages:
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Less dryness and faster recovery for some patients.
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Better structural stability of the cornea.
Barraquer offers comprehensive screening to determine whether SMILE or LASIK is more suitable based on corneal health and refractive error.
ICL: When Laser Surgery Isn’t the Right Fit
For patients who aren’t candidates for LASIK or SMILE often due to very high prescriptions or thin corneas, Implantable Collamer Lenses (ICL) provide an excellent alternative.
An ICL is placed inside the eye, between the iris and the natural lens, to correct vision without altering the cornea.
Benefits:
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Reversible and removable.
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No corneal reshaping.
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Suitable for high myopia or astigmatism.
Barraquer’s specialists use ultrasound biomicroscopy and anterior segment OCT to precisely calculate lens sizing and ensure optimal safety.
Barraquer’s Diagnostic Edge
Choosing the right procedure begins with data. Barraquer employs a full suite of diagnostic technologies, including:
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Corneal topography and tomography to map curvature and thickness.
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Wavefront analysis for personalized vision correction profiles.
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OCT imaging for corneal and anterior segment evaluation.
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Tear-film analysis to minimize post-operative dryness.
These tests ensure every treatment plan is uniquely designed around the patient’s vision, lifestyle, and long-term eye health.
Which Option Is Right for You?
The decision isn't just about convenience; it's about long-term visual comfort and ocular safety. During a detailed consultation at Barraquer, your ophthalmologist will consider:
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Corneal structure and thickness.
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Prescription strength and stability.
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Eye dryness or existing conditions.
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Lifestyle and occupational needs.
Conclusion
Modern vision correction has moved far beyond “one procedure fits all.” Whether through LASIK, PRK, SMILE, or ICL, Barraquer's ophthalmic team uses advanced imaging and surgical technology to select the safest, most effective solution for every patient.
Clarity isn't just about seeing better, it's about choosing a path that preserves vision health for years to come.
Schedule a Consultation Today
For consultation, please contact us:
- Email: appointments@barraquer.ae
- Phone (Outside the UAE): +971 4 573 9999
- Toll-Free (Within the UAE): 800 234823 (BEHUAE)
- Availability: 7 days a week, from 9:00 AM to 6:00 PM
Extended hours on Monday until 8:00 PM
Our team will be pleased to assist you.