Laser refractive surgery techniques #16

11/06/2025

Listen to the podcast
We’ve released a new episode of our podcast “Descansa la vista" (Rest your eyes) On this occasion, we speak with Dr. Anton Barraquer to delve into the main laser surgery techniques used to correct refractive errors such as myopia, hyperopia, and astigmatism.

• What laser refractive surgery techniques exist?
• What does each one involve?
• What are the main differences between the different techniques?
• What factors are taken into account when choosing one technique over another?
• What are the main complications associated with these procedures?

What are the main differences between the different laser techniques?

The main difference lies in the methodology, since the final results are quite similar.

With PRK, the goal is to remove the superficial tissue—the epithelium—which regenerates constantly. Then, the laser is applied (the same one used in all three techniques). Since we remove tissue, we need to place a protective contact lens, which is kept in place for 3 or 4 days until the epithelium regenerates. Recovery is a bit slower compared to the other techniques.

LASIK has a very fast recovery—within 24 to 48 hours, the patient is already recovered. A first laser creates a kind of “flap,” allowing access to the deeper layer where the laser treatment is applied. Afterward, the tissue is repositioned in its original place. The cut is so fine that the tissue “self-seals” within minutes.

Finally, SMILE is a variant of LASIK. Instead of creating a flap, the laser forms a lenticule that is removed with a special spatula to carry out the procedure. The main difference compared to LASIK is that it causes slightly less dryness.

As with any surgery, there are some risks. What are the main ones for this type of procedure?

We should start by noting that this is a very safe procedure. The most common risks are the mildest, such as possible dry eyes, which usually appear for a few weeks or months. Then there’s a very small group of people who may need lubrication with artificial drops. Another common effect is photophobia, which can appear during the first few weeks but eventually disappears. One of the rarest complications is the appearance of halos or light scattering. Nowadays, with the careful patient selection we carry out, these are rarely seen.

In episode Laser refractive surgery techniques #16, we address the most common questions about this type of procedure, how we choose the right technique for each patient, and what the recovery is like.

We’d also like to remind you that you can send us your questions about eye health on Instagram, Twitter, or Facebook using the hashtag #DescansaLaVista, so we can answer them in future episodes.