Clinical result of myopic LASIK enhancement

ABSTRACT

PURPOSE: To evaluate the predisposing factors for enhancement and assess the efficacy of LASIK enhancement using a technique of lifting the flap for residual myopia after laser assisted in situ keratomileusis (LASIK). METHODS: 46 eyes that underwent LASIK enhancement by lifting the flap using the same excimer laser as primary LASIK were retrospectively studied for the predisposing factors for enhancement and the efficacy of LASIK enhancement for residual myopia. LASIK of 20 eyes were performed by STAR and 26 eyes by Mel 70. RESULTS: The higher the initial spherical eqivalent (SE) and keratometer, the larger the amount of undercorrection (p<0.05), and the higher the initial SE and the change of corneal thickness during regression, the larger the amount of regression (p<0.01). There was no difficulty during lifting the flap regardless of time after primary LASIK and no complication during or after enhancement. The SE before and after enhancement was -2.38+/-0.86 D and -0.93+/-0.87 D. Uncorrected visual acuity was 20/25 or better in 80% of eyes. CONCLUSIONS: LASIK enhancement by lifting the flap for correctable residual myopia after primary LASIK was relatively easy to perform and effective for correction of residual myopia.