Written by Dr GozlanOphthalmologist, refractive surgery · updated October 26, 2026
The operation
LASIK, PRK and Presby-LASIK: how they work, and who decides.
Dr Gozlan chooses the technique best suited to your eyes during the preoperative assessment (LASIK, PRK or Presby-LASIK). This page explains how each one works, so that you understand the proposal you will receive.
Dr Gozlan, after the preoperative assessment. He takes into account the thickness and shape of the cornea, the correction needed, your age, the condition of the eye surface and your activities. He explains the technique he has selected and why. If no laser surgery is suitable for your eyes, he tells you so.
A femtosecond laser creates a thin flap at the surface of the cornea. The excimer laser then reshapes the cornea under this flap, which is put back in place without stitches. LASIK corrects myopia, astigmatism and hyperopia. Vision usually returns within 24 to 48 hours. It requires a cornea of sufficient thickness and regular shape.
The excimer laser works directly on the surface of the cornea after its thin outer layer (the epithelium) has been removed, with no flap. PRK preserves more corneal thickness; it is often selected for thin corneas, contact sports or some high-risk professions. The epithelium regrows within a few days, so recovery is more gradual than with LASIK.
LASIK and PRK use the same excimer laser and give comparable long-term results. They differ in the access route (flap or surface) and in recovery. Learn more: LASIK and PRK compared
Around the age of 45, near vision declines. Presby-LASIK adapts LASIK to reduce dependence on reading glasses, often using the monovision principle. It is explained on the site dedicated to presbyopia: learn more about Presby-LASIK.
Next: the preoperative assessment and the day of surgery.
This general information does not replace a consultation. Like any surgery, refractive surgery carries risks, which are explained during the consultation.