Retreatments for residual refractive errors after uncomplicated LASIK

Abstract

Laser in situ keratomileusis (LASIK) retreatments are now commonly performed surgeries as LASIK is increasingly used to correct refractive errors. The most important criterion to select the retreatment technique is residual stromal bed thickness. If there is enough stromal bed, the treatment of choice is flap relift. If the estimated stromal thickness is less than 250 µm, surface options and undersurface ablation of flap could be performed. The most important complications are epithelial ingrowth, ectasia and haze after different retreatment methods. Preventive measures and proper management of these complications are the key points for the success of retreatment. Excellent visual and refractive outcomes are possible in a vast majority of cases with the proper patient selection and appropriate surgical techniques.