Laser Vision Correction/Refractive Surgery

About laser vision correction surgery at Mass Eye and Ear

Mass Eye and Ear surgeons use the latest technology in laser vision correction or refractive surgery. Our highly precise lasers have improved outcomes and patient satisfaction across procedures like LASIK, PRK, and SMILE.

Mass Eye and Ear, Lexington is one of the only facilities in New England that offers ReLEx SMILE—a gentle, minimally invasive laser eye procedure that provides highly precise vision correction.

What vision problems can laser vision correction surgery correct?

Laser vision correction surgery can correct common refractive errors, which are vision problems caused by how the eye focuses light, such as:

• Nearsightedness (myopia) — difficulty seeing distant objects clearly
• Farsightedness (hyperopia) — difficulty focusing on nearby objects
• Astigmatism  — blurred or distorted vision at all distances
• Presbyopia — age-related loss of near vision, typically beginning after age 40

What are the types of laser vision correction surgery?

Mass Eye and Ear offers the most advanced forms of laser vision correction surgery, 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. Learn more about LASIK surgery
• 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. Learn more about SMILE
• 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. Learn more about PRK
• EVO ICL (implantable collamer lens): A small, soft lens is implanted into the eye to correct nearsightedness and astigamtism. Unlike LASIK, it doesn’t involve reshaping the cornea. Learn more about EVO ICL
• 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.