Peripheral refraction in myopic eyes after LASIK surgery

Area of Science:

• Ophthalmology
• Refractive Surgery
• Visual Optics

Background:

• Myopic laser-assisted in situ keratomileusis (LASIK) is a common procedure to correct myopia.
• Understanding its effects on peripheral refraction is crucial for visual quality.
• Previous research suggests differing impacts of refractive procedures on peripheral optics.

Purpose of the Study:

• To investigate changes in axial and off-axis refraction along the horizontal visual field after myopic LASIK.
• To compare the effects of LASIK on peripheral myopia with other refractive treatments.

Main Methods:

• Twenty-six patients undergoing LASIK for myopia were included.
• Peripheral refraction was measured using an open field auto-refractor before and 3 months after surgery.
• Measurements were taken along the horizontal meridian up to 35° eccentricity in 5° steps.

Main Results:

• Myopic LASIK resulted in a reduction of myopia across the horizontal visual field, from the center to 35° eccentricity.
• The reduction in myopia was statistically significant at all measured eccentricities (p < 0.029).
• Peripheral refractive changes correlated with baseline axial refractive error.

Conclusions:

• Myopic LASIK surgery significantly impacts peripheral refraction, reducing myopia.
• Unlike orthokeratology, LASIK demonstrates a myopic reduction effect in the peripheral visual field.
• These findings are relevant for understanding the visual outcomes of LASIK surgery.