Refractive laser surgery refers to a series of surgical procedures used to correct eye disorders. These procedures are performed to correct eye defects such as myopia (distance vision impairment), hyperopia (near vision impairment) and astigmatism.

The most common refractive laser surgery procedures include

1. LASEK/LASIK: These procedures are a keratomileusis procedure that uses laser energy and changes the shape of the cornea. LASEK loosens the top layer of the cornea using a mild alkaline solution and then lifts the edges of this layer, while LASIK creates a flap of the cornea using a microkeratome or femtosecond laser. Both procedures correct the eye defect by reshaping the tissue under the cornea with the laser.
2. PRK (Photorefractive Keratectomy): PRK is a procedure in which the top layer of the cornea is completely removed and then the laser is applied to the surface of the cornea. Unlike LASIK and LASEK, PRK does not replace the top layer of the cornea, so the healing process may be slightly longer.
3. SMILE (Small Intra-Corneal Lenticular Extraction): SMILE is a procedure that involves removing a lenticule inside the cornea using a femtosecond laser. This lenticule is removed from the cornea to correct myopia. A flap is not created on the surface of the cornea, so it differs from traditional flap-based procedures such as LASIK.

Refractive laser surgery can often quickly and effectively correct eye defects and give many people clear vision. However, it may not be suitable for everyone and may involve some risks. It is therefore important to carry out a detailed assessment when considering this type of surgery.