Since its earliest days, laser eye surgery has evolved into a highly refined, precision-driven field of medicine. But when did it start becoming the technology-driven marvel we see today? While the first forms of vision correction surgery emerged decades ago, advanced laser systems, AI-guided mapping, and blade-free techniques have made the modern experience so remarkable.
In this article, we’ll explore when laser eye surgery was invented and when it truly began delivering precise, predictable, and life-enhancing outcomes.
We’ll discuss the early days of refractive surgery, the introduction of the excimer and femtosecond lasers, the rise of LASIK surgery, and the cutting-edge tools that now shape your laser eye surgery experience. If you’ve ever wondered how we went from radial incisions to wavefront-guided sculpting, you’re in the right place.
When Did Laser Eye Surgery Start?
Let’s take a moment to appreciate how far laser eye surgery has come by exploring its fascinating evolution from early surgical experiments to the precise, highly advanced techniques available today.
The Birth Of Modern Vision Correction
So, when did laser eye surgery start? The roots of laser vision correction can be traced back to the 1970s and 1980s, building upon surgical ideas that had existed for centuries. Earlier techniques, such as radial keratotomy (RK), involved making small radial incisions in the cornea to alter its shape and improve vision. A Russian ophthalmologist named Dr Svyatoslav Fyodorov popularised this technique in the 1970s, particularly correcting refractive errors like myopia.
Enter Laser Technology
The real turning point came with the invention of the excimer laser in the late 1970s. Developed initially for industrial purposes, scientists soon recognised its potential in medical applications, including ophthalmology. This ultraviolet laser could precisely ablate (remove) tissue without heating or damaging the surrounding area.
Early Clinical Trials And Innovations
In the 1980s, a Greek ophthalmologist named Dr Ioannis Pallikaris helped develop LASIK surgery (Laser-Assisted In Situ Keratomileusis), combining the creation of a corneal flap with the precision of excimer laser ablation. The first LASIK procedures were performed in the early 1990s, offering an alternative to photorefractive keratectomy (PRK), which involved removing the cornea’s outer layer without a flap.
How Laser Eye Surgery Works
At its core, laser eye surgery is all about precision. The goal is to adjust the corneal curvature so that light entering the eye can properly focus on the retina, delivering sharper and more comfortable vision. Whether you’re dealing with short-sightedness (myopia), long-sightedness (hyperopia), or astigmatism, the process remains similar: reshaping the cornea to improve how light is refracted within the eye.
The procedure relies on the excimer laser, a type of ultraviolet laser that can remove ultra-thin layers of corneal tissue with extraordinary accuracy. This is known as laser ablation. Because the excimer laser doesn’t generate significant heat, the eye surgeon can sculpt the cornea without damaging the surrounding tissue, helping minimise potential thermal damage and supporting a smoother recovery.
LASIK Surgery And The Corneal Flap
LASIK surgery is among the most commonly performed laser vision correction procedures (Laser-Assisted In Situ Keratomileusis). What sets LASIK apart is the creation of a thin, hinged flap on the corneal surface, which allows access to the deeper layers of the cornea for reshaping.
Initially, this flap was created using a handheld device called a microkeratome, which involved a mechanical blade. While effective, it had its limitations in terms of consistency and precision.
When Did Laser Eye Surgery Start Becoming So Precise?
The true leap in precision came with the advent of femtosecond laser technology in the early 2000s. This innovation allowed for blade-free surgery, with surgeons using ultrashort laser pulses to create highly accurate corneal flaps. This level of precision offered greater control over corneal thickness and improved overall LASIK quality.
Today, femtosecond laser technology has become the standard for many LASIK procedures. It enables surgeons to tailor the surgery to the patient’s unique eye shape and corneal thickness with incredible accuracy and predictability. It also allows for greater flexibility when treating individuals with thin corneas or other anatomical considerations that may have once-limited eligibility.
AI-Guided Mapping And Customisation
Advancements didn’t stop there. With the development of wavefront technology and mapping systems, LASIK treatment became more tailored to individual needs. These tools analyse the eye in extreme detail, creating a custom map that guides the laser to optimise visual outcomes.
Eye Tracking Technology And Real-Time Adjustments
Modern laser systems also include eye-tracking technology that monitors the eye’s movement in real-time. This ensures that the laser ablation is precisely aligned, even if the patient’s eye moves slightly during the laser vision correction procedure.
Comparing Early And Modern Laser Eye Surgery
As laser eye surgery has evolved, so has its precision, safety, and overall experience. What began as a manually intensive process has become a highly refined treatment powered by cutting-edge laser technology, computer-guided systems, and ongoing clinical research.
Then: Manual Techniques And Limited Tools
Back when laser eye surgery started, procedures involved more manual work and less customisation. Outcomes could vary depending on technique and equipment.
Now: Tech-Driven Accuracy
Today’s laser-assisted surgeries are driven by digital precision. From corneal reshaping to stromal sculpting methods, every step is guided by data. Minimal thermal damage to surrounding tissues also enhances patient satisfaction.
Understanding The Types Of Laser Vision Correction
Laser vision correction has come a long way since its early days. Thanks to advances in laser technology, several different types of procedures are now available, each designed to correct specific refractive errors and suit a variety of eye shapes, needs, and lifestyles. While the overall goal remains the same, correcting vision by reshaping the corneal curvature, the way that’s achieved can differ between techniques.
Here’s a look at some of the most well-known and widely used laser vision correction procedures, along with emerging options that continue to evolve.
LASIK Surgery
LASIK surgery (Laser-Assisted In Situ Keratomileusis) remains the most popular vision correction surgery worldwide. In this procedure, a corneal flap is created and lifted to allow the excimer laser to reshape the underlying corneal tissue.
LASIK is known for its relatively quick recovery time, high levels of patient satisfaction, and ability to treat a wide range of refractive errors, including myopia, hyperopia, and astigmatism. It’s particularly appealing to people looking for a minimally invasive, fast solution with a proven track record.
PRK (Photorefractive Keratectomy)
PRK, short for photorefractive keratectomy, was the first type of laser eye surgery to be widely performed using the excimer laser. Rather than creating a flap, PRK involves removing the outer layer of the cornea’s surface (called the epithelium) to expose the tissue underneath, which is then reshaped using laser energy.
While the initial healing process may take slightly longer than LASIK due to epithelial regrowth, PRK remains a safe and effective choice, especially for people with thin corneas, dry eye symptoms, or certain corneal irregularities that make flap creation less ideal.
SMILE
SMILE (Small Incision Lenticule Extraction) is one of the newer innovations in laser eye surgery. It uses a femtosecond laser to create a tiny lens-shaped disc (called a lenticule) within the cornea. This lenticule is then removed through a small incision, subtly reshaping the corneal curvature and improving the patient’s vision.
Because SMILE is minimally invasive and doesn’t require a flap, it may be associated with reduced dry eye symptoms and faster structural recovery for some individuals. It’s often used to treat myopia and, in some cases, astigmatism.
Other evolving laser techniques and vision correction surgeries are also being explored, often tailored to individual eye shapes, prescription strengths, and lifestyle preferences. Each of these options is grounded in the same principle: carefully and precisely altering the cornea’s surface to improve how light is focused within the eye.
PRESBYOND
PRESBYOND is an exciting development in refractive surgery aimed at individuals experiencing presbyopia, a natural age-related decline in near vision. Rather than reshaping the cornea for one specific focal point, PRESBYOND uses wavefront technology and laser-assisted methods to extend a person’s depth of field, helping them see both near and far without reading glasses.
This approach blends the benefits of LASIK treatment with the nuanced correction needed for presbyopic eyes. It uses highly detailed measurements to customise the procedure to the patient’s visual needs. It’s one more example of how laser systems have evolved to support better, more flexible visual outcomes for people at every stage of life.
Effectiveness Of Modern LASIK Procedures
Years of clinical trials and further research have enhanced the effectiveness of modern LASIK procedures. Results are now more predictable, and LASIK quality has improved.
Better Vision Through Innovation
Many LASIK patients enjoy clearer vision without relying on contact lenses or glasses thanks to innovations like femtosecond lasers and advanced mapping.
What To Expect During A Laser Vision Correction Procedure
If you’re considering laser vision correction, you may wonder how the entire process unfolds from preparation to recovery. Understanding what to expect before, during, and after your laser eye surgery can help you feel more comfortable and informed at every stage of your journey.
Whether you’re undergoing LASIK surgery, PRK, or another type of refractive surgery, the experience is generally straightforward, supported by modern laser technology and personalised care. Let’s walk through the key steps to head into your procedure feeling prepared, calm, and empowered.
Preparing For The Surgery
Before the procedure, your eye doctor will assess your corneal thickness, vision prescription, and overall eye health. You may need to stop wearing contact lenses in advance.
The Day Of The Procedure
On the day of your surgery, you’ll be given numbing eye drops to prevent discomfort. You’ll also be asked to wear dark eyeglasses afterwards to protect your healing eyes from bright lights.
Recovery And Follow-Up Appointments
Healing times vary, but many people notice improved vision within a few days. Follow-up visits help ensure your eyes are healing well and your vision problems are properly addressed.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is laser eye surgery painful?
Most people report little pain during the procedure, thanks to the anaesthetic drops. Some may feel mild discomfort as the eye heals.
Can I drive immediately after laser surgery?
Not usually. You’ll need someone to take you home, and you should wait until your eye doctor clears you to drive.
Will I still need glasses after laser surgery?
Many people experience improved vision, but some may still need glasses for certain tasks, particularly as they age.
What are the risks involved?
Every surgery has risks. Your surgeon will discuss these with you so you can make an informed choice. Risks may include dry eye symptoms, glare, or under- or over-correction.
How long does laser eye surgery take?
The actual procedure is often completed in a few minutes per eye, though you’ll be at the clinic longer for preparation and post-op checks.
Who is a good candidate?
You’ll need a thorough eye examination. People with stable vision, good general health, and the right corneal thickness may be suitable.
Conclusion
From radial incisions in the 1970s to today’s AI-guided, blade-free LASIK treatment, laser eye surgery has made extraordinary progress. If you’ve ever wondered, “When did laser eye surgery start being this precise?” you know it’s been a long road of continuous innovation, clinical research, and enhanced patient care.
By embracing the best laser technology, today’s vision correction surgery offers tailored solutions, high-tech tools, and a warm, patient-focused approach. Whether considering LASIK, PRK, or other laser eye surgeries, you’re stepping into a world shaped by decades of scientific progress and a commitment to effectively correcting vision.
Whether you’re just starting your research or seriously considering laser vision correction, we’re here to support you with personalised guidance and care. If you’d like to learn more about your options or find out if you’re a suitable candidate for laser eye surgery, we welcome you to contact our friendly team.
Reach out today to book a consultation with Dr Edward Roufail at (03) 9071 0180 and take that exciting first step towards life with less reliance on glasses or contact lenses.
Note: Surgical or invasive procedures carry inherent risks. As part of our standard practice, we thoroughly discuss these risks during the consent process before any surgical procedure. Your understanding and comfort are our utmost priority.
Sources
Cleveland Clinic (2024) Photorefractive Keratectomy (PRK). Available at: https://my.clevelandclinic.org/health/procedures/photorefractive-keratectomy-prk-eye-surgery (accessed 18 April 2025).
Fu, L. and Patel, B. C. (2023) Radial Keratotomy Correction. Available at: https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK559162/ (accessed 18 April 2025).
Latz, C., Asshauer, T., Rathjen, C., et al. (2021) Femtosecond-Laser Assisted Surgery of the Eye: Overview and Impact of the Low-Energy Concept. Micromachines, 12, 122. DOI: 10.3390/mi12020122.
Mehta, P. (2024) What Is SMILE Eye Surgery? In WebMD. Available at: https://www.webmd.com/eye-health/what-is-smile-eye-surgery (accessed 18 April 2025).
Turbert, D. (2024) Nearsightedness: What Is Myopia? In American Academy of Ophthalmology (ed. D. Porter). Available at: https://www.aao.org/eye-health/diseases/myopia-nearsightedness (accessed 18 April 2025).
Wirth, J. (2024) LASIK Success Rates: How Safe Is Eye Surgery In 2025? In Forbes Health. Available at: https://www.forbes.com/health/eye-health/lasik-success-rates/ (accessed 18 April 2025).
