Laser Vision Correction and Refractive Surgery

Advanced vision correction procedures

Through Mass Eye and Ear, Mass General Brigham offers advanced laser vision correction procedures, from LASIK to implantable collamer lenses.

• LASIK: A well-established, quick and precise procedure that reshapes the cornea to improve vision, correcting conditions like nearsightedness, farsightedness, and astigmatism. It offers minimal discomfort with fast recovery.
• SMILE: The newest advancement in laser vision correction. Unlike LASIK, SMILE is minimally invasive and doesn’t require creating a corneal flap. Instead, a small laser incision is used to reshape the cornea, making it a great option for patients seeking a gentler, flap-free procedure with quick healing.
• PRK: An alternative to LASIK and SMILE, PRK is perfect for patients with thinner or irregular corneas who may not be candidates for LASIK or SMILE. It’s a safe, well-established surface procedure and the first form of laser vision correction.
• EVO ICL (implantable collamer lens): A small, soft lens is implanted into the eye to correct nearsightedness and astigmatism. Unlike LASIK, PRK or SMILE, it doesn’t involve reshaping the cornea. This procedure is reversible, as the lens can later be removed during cataract surgery.
• Refractive lens exchange (RLE): For patients over 40, RLE replaces the natural lens with an artificial lens. Advanced lens technologies—such as multifocal, trifocal, extended-depth of vision, toric (astigmatism-correcting) and light-adjustable lenses—can provide a broader range of vision and reduce dependence on glasses. A femtosecond laser can correct astigmatism during surgery, and intraoperative aberrometry provides real-time measurements to identify the best lens power for your eye.