Vision Correction Surgery

LASIK, PRK, and Other Refractive Procedures

For More Information 919-681-3937

If you’d like to see the world clearly with little or no need for glasses or contact lenses, vision correction surgery -- also called refractive surgery -- may be an option for you. Board-certified Duke refractive surgeons have the expertise to offer a variety of laser vision surgeries and other refractive procedures to correct nearsightedness, farsightedness, and astigmatism, even if you are not a candidate for LASIK. We perform an extensive eye exam and consider your eye health, lifestyle, and vision goals before recommending the type of vision correction that meets your needs.

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Laser Vision Correction Procedures

Laser vision correction procedures are performed on an outpatient basis, meaning you can go home the same day. We use custom laser vision correction technology to reshape the surface of your eye so it can better focus light, allowing for improved vision without glasses or contact lenses. You can typically return to your work and normal activities within days. Your vision will continue to improve as your eyes heal.

LASIK

A thin flap is created in the cornea using a femtosecond laser, which emits quick, short laser pulses. This is often referred to as “bladeless LASIK.” The flap is rotated up on its hinge, and laser energy reshapes the cornea to attain the appropriate vision correction. The flap is then returned to its original position.

PRK

If your cornea is too thin for LASIK, photorefractive keratectomy (PRK) may be an option for you. Instead of creating a flap in your cornea, laser energy reshapes the corneal surface to achieve optimal vision correction. The corneal surface regenerates within a few days.

Our Locations

Duke Health offers locations throughout the Triangle. Find one near you.

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Other Vision Correction Surgeries

Implantable Contact Lens (ICL)

Clear, implantable lenses are surgically placed behind your iris to correct severe nearsightedness. ICLs are appropriate for people with good eye health who are under age 50 and do not have cataracts. ICLs may be an option for patients with large refractive errors that are not treatable with PRK or LASIK.

Clear Lens Extraction (CLE)

Your natural lens is surgically removed with ultrasound energy and replaced with an artificial intraocular lens (IOL). Multifocal IOLs can be used to decrease your need for distance and/or reading glasses. This procedure, also called refractive lens exchange, eliminates the need for future cataract surgery.

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Request a consultation appointment for LASIK, PRK, clear lens exchange, intraocular lens exchange, or refractive lens exchange.

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or call 919-681-3937

How to Determine Which Vision Correction Procedure Is Right for You

Free Comprehensive Evaluation

Before our refractive surgeons recommend vision correction surgery, you will undergo a complete eye exam. We use advanced imaging devices to take precise measurements. This helps us determine which procedure is right for you and ensures you achieve the best possible outcome. At the end of your appointment, we will discuss your treatment options, payment considerations, and answer your questions to help you make the best decision.

Slit Lamp Microscopy
This test allows for a magnified, 3D examination of your ocular structures.

Corneal Topography and Tomography
A computer-guided device creates a 3D image map of your cornea and measures corneal power, curvature, and thickness.

Corneal Pachymetry
Ultrasound waves are used to determine the thickness of your cornea.

Wavefront Imaging
A computer-guided device combines corneral mapping data with wavefront analysis to account for higher-order refractive aberrations.

Why Choose Duke

Board-Certified, Fellowship-Trained Corneal Specialists
Our vision correction surgeons are board-certified corneal specialists who are fellowship trained. This means they have completed several years of advanced training in cornea and refractive surgery. Collectively they have performed over 28,000 refractive procedures since Duke began offering them 30 years ago. Our depth of knowledge ensures we recommend the eye surgery that is best and safest for you.

Modern Laser Technology and Facilities
We use the latest laser system technology, which takes thousands of measurements of your eyes and creates a 3D map and a highly personalized procedure plan. Our lasers are housed in our temperature- and humidity-controlled operating rooms. These environmental controls increase the laser’s precision so you achieve the best possible outcome.

Continuity of Care
Our doctors work with you from your first evaluation through every follow-up visit. If you prefer, we can coordinate follow-up care with your local eye doctor.

Nationally Recognized Leaders
Our eye surgeons travel the country to lecture and teach courses on refractive surgery. We offer courses for trainees and community doctors and provide laser certification courses. Our vast experience and knowledge mean you receive your care from some of the best refractive surgeons in the country.

Best Eye Hospital in North Carolina

Where you receive your care matters. Duke University Hospital is proud of our team and the exceptional care they provide. They are why our ophthalmology program is ranked seventh in the nation and is the highest-ranked program in North Carolina, according to U.S. News & World Report for 2024–2025.

This page was medically reviewed on 08/12/2024 by

C. Ellis Wisely, MD, MBA | Corneal Specialist