Is refractive surgery the same as LASIK?
If you're thinking about getting rid of glasses or contact lenses, you might have heard the terms "refractive surgery" and "LASIK" used interchangeably. But are they the same thing? At Atlantic Eye Laser Centre, we get this question a lot. Let's clear it up!
What Is Refractive Surgery?
Refractive surgery is a broad term. It refers to any procedure that changes the shape of your eye to improve how you see. These surgeries correct problems like:
- Nearsightedness (myopia)
- Farsightedness (hyperopia)
- Astigmatism (an uneven curvature of the front layer of your eye)
- Presbyopia (age-related difficulty seeing up close)
In short, refractive surgery means any surgical way to correct your vision.
So, Where Does LASIK Fit In?
LASIK is one type of refractive surgery. It's probably the most well known because it's quick, safe, and gets amazing results.
During LASIK:
- We create a very thin flap on the surface of your eye
- We use a laser to reshape the underlying corneal tissue
- The flap is gently placed back down to heal naturally.
LASIK is popular because recovery is fast and most people see clearly within a day or two.
Other Types of Refractive Surgery
Besides LASIK, there are other procedures under the refractive surgery umbrella:
- PRK (Photorefractive Keratectomy): Similar to LASIK but without creating a flap
- SMILE (Small Incision Lenticule Extraction): A minimally invasive laser procedure
- Lens Replacement Surgery: Often chosen for people with higher prescriptions or early cataracts
- IPCL (Implantable phakic contact lens): an option for patients who are not suitable for surface laser procedures and too young for lens replacement.
Each type of refractive surgery offers unique benefits. The best option depends on your eye characteristics, your lifestyle, and your vision goals.
Is LASIK Right for Everyone?
Not always. Some people have corneas that are too thin for LASIK. Others have dry eyes or other factors that make a different type of refractive surgery a better choice. That's why a full, detailed assessment is so important.
How Do I Find Out What’s Right for Me?
The best first step is taking a quick self-test to get a sense of your suitability. Then, come see us for a complete assessment. We'll guide you to the best option for your eyes.
Take the First Step Toward Clear Vision
Ready to find out if you're suitable for LASIK or another refractive surgery?
Find out if you are suitable for laser eye surgery
Not everyone is eligible for vision correction surgery.
Find out if you could benefit from this life changing surgery by taking the quick self-suitability quiz below:
Our most popular procedures
What our patients say…
★ ★ ★ ★ ★
“The best care, the best treatment and the best doctors.”
M.A.★ ★ ★ ★ ★
“Everything was done with care and the doctor explained everything in detail. My surgery was a success and my sight has significantly improved – I no longer use glasses.”
N.N.★ ★ ★ ★ ★
“All I can say is WOW! I feel like I have new eyes.
Thank you just doesn’t even began to say how grateful I am. Your hole team is an absolute pleasure to be around. You guys rock”
S.B.★ ★ ★ ★ ★
“The service is excellent and the doctors are experts in their fields. I felt relaxed and confident that I was in great hands. Staff are warm, friendly and very helpful.”
F.W.★ ★ ★ ★ ★
“I would refer Dr Beatty to anyone interested in LASIK or PRK eye surgery. The entire experience was really pleasant with his and his staff’s professional advice and care before, during and after the surgery.
I am very thankful to be able to look at the world and go about my day to day activities without the hassle of glasses or contact lenses.”
P.M.★ ★ ★ ★ ★
“Best money spent ever. I am so happy with the results after I had LASIK done.”
M.A.★ ★ ★ ★ ★
“BEST decision and results after I had my LASIK done by Doctor Beatty!”
A.A.★ ★ ★ ★ ★
“I will definitely recommend Dr Beatty. I am so happy with my LASIK.”
R.B.★ ★ ★ ★ ★
“Dr Daemon McClunan and the entire staff at Atlantic Eye Centre, Foreshore are beyond AMAZING. The medical care I received from Dr McClunan was outstanding and the staff was always friendly and professional.”
M.M.We have replaced the images of real patients who provided these testimonials to protect their privacy.
Hi, I’m Daemon McClunan
I’m proud to be the founder of both the Atlantic Eye Centre, a leading eye specialist centre; and LIQID Medical Pty, an award-winning biotech company. My passion for research and innovation has led me to create four patented devices, and earn various prestigious awards during my specialist training.
With a medical degree from Stellenbosch University, a specialist degree from the University of Cape Town, and experience working in renowned Laser Eye Surgery centres in Canada, Germany, India and London, I’m dedicated to providing top-tier care.
Beyond the clinic, I’ve embarked on humanitarian missions, travelling over 15,000km by motorbike to provide rural eye screenings. In my downtime, I love mountain biking, diving, and spending quality time with my family.
My goal is to provide a world-class service which ensures every patient leaves my practice feeling happier than when they first walked in.
Dr Daemon McClunan
MBChB(SU), DipOphth(SA), MMed(UCT), FcOphth(SA)
Hi, I’m James Beatty
I pride myself on providing exceptional eye care with state-of-the-art equipment and a team dedicated to excellence. With a focus on refractive surgery, I bring years of experience and expertise to each patient’s journey towards clearer vision.
As an active member of esteemed Ophthalmologist societies including the Ophthalmological Society of South Africa and the South African Society of Cataract and Refractive Surgery, I stay abreast of the latest advancements in the field.
Additionally, my affiliation with the Health Professions Council of South Africa and the South African Glaucoma Society underscores my commitment to upholding the highest standards of care.
With a passion for laser surgery, I strive to deliver optimal outcomes for every patient.
Dr James Beatty
MB ChB (UCT) FCS (SA) Ophth MMed (Stel) Ophth
