Refractive Surgery Unit

Refractive surgery comprises a series of well-established ophthalmic procedures based on accuracy and safety. 

The most usual technique used to treat dioptre values outside the normal range is LASIK. This involves using the excimer laser to reshape the cornea by applying the laser under a thin flap on the surface of the cornea that is around 120 microns thick. It is useful and safe for use in myopia (short-sightedness), hyperopia (long-sightedness) and astigmatism.

Use of the latest Sixth-Generation Lasers is common practice at our institution, including the Amaris laser, the most prestigious and well-known excimer laser equipment in the Schwind product family.

We sometimes come across situations where the use of other techniques involving the implantation of intraocular lenses may be more appropriate. Such cases include the use of ICL lenses, multifocal lenses for presbyopia, toric lenses for astigmatism, etc.

During the pre-examination, we look at data that play a role in refractive surgery and also all other ocular structures in order to be sure that we are treating completely healthy eyes. We assess your cornea, pupils, crystalline lens, intraocular pressure and the entire surface of the retina in detail, along with tearing or eye movement.

The Refractive Surgery Unit is led by Dr David Andreu with the assistance of Dra. Nuria Manrique Donaire and their team of clinical optometrists: Montserrat Ortiz, Anna Medina, Carmen Aleson and Mariam Marhnouj.

What are the main techniques used? 

1. Refractive excimer laser (LASIK, LASEK, PRK)  
2. Implantation of pre-crystalline intraocular lenses (ICL), iris-clip (Artisan)
3. Removal of crystalline lens with Implantation of Trifocal Lenses and Toric Lenses  
4. Implantation of Intracorneal Rings (Intacs, KeraRings)
5. Incisional Surgery for Astigmatism  
6. Phototherapeutic Keratectomy (PTK).