Until recently, refractive errors could only be corrected with glasses or contact lenses. Today, refractive surgery is an option for many people with myopia, hyperopia, and astigmatism. Not all people with refractive errors are good candidates for refractive surgery. An ophthalmologist is the best source of information on refractive procedures and options based on your particular refractive error. Glasses and contact lenses correct refractive errors by adding or subtracting refractive power.
Refractive surgery improves vision by permanently changing the shape of the cornea.
Radial Keratotomy Radial keratotomy, or RK, reduces myopia by changing the curvature of the cornea. Using a microscope, the surgeon makes a calculated number of incisions in the peripheral cornea to allow the central cornea to flatten. These incisions are made in a spoke-like fashion radiating from the cornea. Flattening the cornea reduces the cornea s optical power and allows light and images to focus on the retina. This procedure is usually performed in the ophthalmologist s office under a local anesthetic and is most effective on patients with low to moderate myopia.