About Laser & Vision correction Surgery
The cornea, the transparent surface at the front of the eye, works in harmony with the eye’s natural lens to focus light onto the retina, allowing for clear vision. When this focusing process is disrupted by refractive errors, it can lead to blurred or distorted vision.
For individuals affected by these issues, laser eye surgery or vision correction surgery can effectively correct the refractive error to improve vision and reduce dependence on glasses or contact lenses.
What is Vision Correction Surgery?
Vision correction surgery includes a range of procedures that improve how the eye focuses by either reshaping the cornea or replacing the natural lens. These surgeries are highly effective for treating common refractive errors and may help individuals achieve clearer vision without relying on corrective eyewear
Our specialists carefully assess each patient to determine the most suitable treatment option based on their unique needs and eye health.
Conditions treated by Vision Correction Surgery
Vision correction surgery is designed to address common refractive errors that affect how the eye focuses light, leading to blurred or distorted vision. These conditions can impact daily activities but are often treatable with the right surgical approach. These refractive errors include:
- Nearsightedness (Myopia): This is a common condition in which the eye sees close objects clearly but distant vision is blurred. It occurs when the eye grows too long or the cornea is too curved, causing light to focus before it reaches the retina.
- Farsightedness (Hyperopia): This condition occurs when light focuses behind the retina, making both near and distant objects appear blurry. It is typically caused by a shorter eye length or a flatter cornea, requiring extra effort to focus.
- Astigmatism: This refractive error occurs when the cornea or lens is not perfectly round, causing light to focus on more than one spot on the retina. The result is blurry or distorted vision at all distances. It can often occur along with nearsightedness or farsightedness.
- Presbyopia: This is a natural, age-related condition that typically begins to affect people in their 40s. It occurs when the eye’s lens gradually loses its flexibility, making it difficult to focus on close objects. Unlike myopia or hypermetropia, presbyopia is not caused by the length of the eye or shape of the cornea but by the ageing of the eye’s lens and supporting structures.
Types of Vision Correction Surgeries
There are various surgical options available to correct refractive errors, each tailored to suit different eye conditions and individual needs. The following are the most commonly used procedures:
- Laser Vision Correction (SMILE, LASIK, PRK, TransPRK): Laser procedures use advanced technology to reshape the cornea and correct conditions such as myopia, hypermetropia, and astigmatism. These minimally invasive surgeries are highly precise, typically involve a short recovery period, and can significantly improve visual outcomes.
- Phakic Intraocular Lenses (Implantable Lenses): For individuals who are not suitable for laser surgery, Phakic implants offer an alternative solution. These lenses are implanted in front of the eye’s natural lens to correct refractive errors, particularly for patients with higher prescriptions. They provide clear vision and are associated with a lower risk of dry eyes.
- Refractive Lens Exchange (Lens Replacement surgery): This procedure replaces the eye’s natural lens is with a specialised artificial lens. RLE is typically recommended for patients with presbyopia or severe refractive errors, offers a long-term solution that may significantly reduce or eliminate the need for glasses.
Eligibility criteria for Vision Correction Surgery
To determine eligibility, our ophthalmologists will consider factors including age, prescription stability, eye health, and overall health. Patients over 18 with a stable prescription, may qualify for laser eye surgery or other vision correction procedures.
Pre-assessment process for vision correction surgery
Before undergoing vision correction surgery, patients must complete a thorough pre-assessment process. This includes detailed eye examinations, diagnostic tests, and consultations with our expert ophthalmologists. Our advanced diagnostic tools allow us to measure your eyes’ shape, thickness, and overall health, ensuring that the selected procedure will deliver optimal results. This assessment aims to ensure that patients are suitable candidates for surgery and to create a customised treatment plan that offers the best possible outcome.
At Moorfields Eye Hospitals UAE, our vision correction specialists in Dubai and Abu Dhabi have extensive sub-speciality training in diagnosing and treating all refractive errors using the latest diagnostic tools and advanced techniques, to reduce dependency on eyewear and enhance the quality of life.
Comprehensive assessments
We offer a comprehensive range of eye care assessments, diagnostics, surgical and non-surgical treatment services. Assessment services: (evaluation examinations may differ depending on outcome of consultation) (expandable links below)
- General Health Assessment
- Optometry assessment
- Pentacam
- Consultation with Cornea and Laser Refractive Consultant
- General Health Assessment
- Optometry assessment
- Pentacam
- Cell count
- Consultation with Retina Consultant
Conditions & Treatment
Laser Vision Correction (LASIK)
At Moorfields Eye Hospitals, our Laser vision correction specialists in Dubai and Abu Dhabi have extensive sub-specialty training in diagnosing and treating refractive errors. Using the latest diagnostic technologies and advanced surgical techniques such as SMILE, LASIK and PRK, they provide personalised care to reduce dependence on glasses or contact lenses, improve visual clarity, and enhance long-term quality of life.
Laser Vision Correction (LASIK)
At Moorfields Eye Hospitals, our Laser vision correction specialists in Dubai and Abu Dhabi have extensive sub-specialty training in diagnosing and treating refractive errors. Using the latest diagnostic technologies and advanced surgical techniques such as SMILE, LASIK and PRK, they provide personalised care to reduce dependence on glasses or contact lenses, improve visual clarity, and enhance long-term quality of life.
Phakic Intraocular Lenses (Implantable Lenses)
What are Implantable Lenses?
Implantable lenses, also known as phakic intraocular lenses (IOLs), are lenses that are surgically placed inside the eye to correct refractive errors such as short-sightedness (myopia), long-sightedness (hypermetropia), and astigmatism. Unlike traditional contact lenses that sit on the surface of the eye, phakic intraocular lenses are positioned inside the eye, in front of the natural lens. This type of vision correction can be an effective and reassuring option for individuals who may not be suitable candidates for laser eye surgery, such as LASIK or PRK. If you are considering ICL surgery in Dubai or Abu Dhabi, Moorfields Eye Hospitals offers world-class expertise and care. Our highly trained refractive surgery specialists will conduct a comprehensive eye assessment to determine whether Implantable Lenses are right for you. Your prescription, eye structure, and lifestyle will all be taken into consideration to offer a tailored, safe, and effective vision correction solution.Phakic Intraocular Lenses (Implantable Lenses)
What are Implantable Lenses?
Implantable lenses, also known as phakic intraocular lenses (IOLs), are lenses that are surgically placed inside the eye to correct refractive errors such as short-sightedness (myopia), long-sightedness (hypermetropia), and astigmatism. Unlike traditional contact lenses that sit on the surface of the eye, phakic intraocular lenses are positioned inside the eye, in front of the natural lens. This type of vision correction can be an effective and reassuring option for individuals who may not be suitable candidates for laser eye surgery, such as LASIK or PRK. If you are considering ICL surgery in Dubai or Abu Dhabi, Moorfields Eye Hospitals offers world-class expertise and care. Our highly trained refractive surgery specialists will conduct a comprehensive eye assessment to determine whether Implantable Lenses are right for you. Your prescription, eye structure, and lifestyle will all be taken into consideration to offer a tailored, safe, and effective vision correction solution.
Refractive Lens Exchange
What is Refractive Lens Exchange?
Refractive Lens Exchange (RLE), also known as lens replacement surgery, is a vision correction procedure where the eye’s natural lens is replaced with an artificial intraocular lens (IOL). It is especially effective for individuals with severe refractive errors or age-related vision changes, such as presbyopia, and may be recommended when laser eye surgery is not a suitable option. By replacing the natural lens, RLE can improve both near and distance vision, often reducing or removing the need for glasses or contact lenses. At Moorfields Eye Hospital Dubai or Abu Dhabi, our experienced specialists will carry out a comprehensive eye examination to determine your eligibility. We will assess your vision needs, eye health, and lifestyle goals to recommend the most appropriate treatment option for you.Refractive Lens Exchange
What is Refractive Lens Exchange?
Refractive Lens Exchange (RLE), also known as lens replacement surgery, is a vision correction procedure where the eye’s natural lens is replaced with an artificial intraocular lens (IOL). It is especially effective for individuals with severe refractive errors or age-related vision changes, such as presbyopia, and may be recommended when laser eye surgery is not a suitable option. By replacing the natural lens, RLE can improve both near and distance vision, often reducing or removing the need for glasses or contact lenses. At Moorfields Eye Hospital Dubai or Abu Dhabi, our experienced specialists will carry out a comprehensive eye examination to determine your eligibility. We will assess your vision needs, eye health, and lifestyle goals to recommend the most appropriate treatment option for you.Laser & Vision Correction Surgery Specialists
Dr. Osama Giledi
Consultant Ophthalmologist in Cataract, Cornea and Refractive Vision Correction SurgeryGCAA Approved Specialist Aeromedical Examiner
Associate Professor Of Ophthalmology (Adjunct)
Dr. Miguel Morcillo
Consultant Ophthalmologist in Cornea, Cataract and Refractive vision correction surgery
Dr. Esmaeil Arbabi
Medical Director and Consultant Ophthalmologist in Corneal transplant, Cataract & Refractive Surgery
FAQ
Moorfields UAE provides a range of vision correction treatments, including laser procedures such as LASIK, SMILE and PRK, as well as lens-based options including implantable lenses (ICL) and refractive lens exchange. The hospital continuously invests in the latest diagnostic and surgical technologies to ensure high levels of precision, safety and personalised outcomes for each patient. The most appropriate option is determined following a detailed clinical assessment.
The most suitable vision correction option depends on several factors, including your prescription, eye health, corneal thickness and lifestyle. At Moorfields UAE, a structured assessment is carried out to evaluate these factors in detail. The findings are reviewed to determine which treatment is most appropriate, and you are provided with a clear explanation of the options and recommendations.
Suitability for vision correction procedures varies from person to person. Some patients are suitable for laser vision correction, while others may benefit more from lens-based procedures such as ICL or lens replacement. A comprehensive assessment is required to determine suitability safely and accurately, based on your individual eye measurements and clinical findings.
Laser vision correction reshapes the cornea to improve how light is focused on the retina. Implantable lenses (ICL) involve placing a lens inside the eye without removing the natural lens. Lens replacement surgery involves removing the eye’s natural lens and replacing it with an artificial lens. Each option is suited to different prescriptions and eye characteristics, which are assessed during your consultation.
A vision correction assessment at Moorfields UAE is a detailed clinical evaluation designed to determine suitability and identify the most appropriate treatment option. During your assessment, you will be seen by an optometrist who will measure your vision and conduct a series of detailed examinations. Following this, you will be seen by a specialist surgeon who will review your results, Confirm your suitability, and recommend the most appropriate treatment.
Vision correction procedures are widely performed and have well-established safety profiles when carried out following appropriate assessment and clinical standards. As with any surgical procedure, there are risks, which vary depending on the treatment and the individual patient. At Moorfields UAE, each patient undergoes a detailed evaluation to assess suitability, and procedures are performed within an audited clinical system with outcomes measured against recognised benchmarks.
Moorfields UAE audits clinical outcomes across vision correction procedures on an ongoing basis. Success and complication rates are measured against recognised benchmarks and published as part of the hospital’s commitment to clinical transparency and quality. Across surgical services, patient outcomes and satisfaction rates consistently exceed recognised benchmarks. View the latest published figures on our satisfaction rates page. These results are supported by clinical standards aligned with JCI and ACHSI accreditation.
Many patients experience a significant reduction in their dependence on glasses or contact lenses. With laser procedures such as LASIK, SMILE or PRK, most patients achieve improved distance vision, although reading glasses may still be needed later in life. With lens-based options such as implantable lenses (ICL) or refractive lens exchange, outcomes depend on the lens selected, with some options designed to reduce the need for both distance and reading glasses. Outcomes vary between individuals and are discussed in detail during your assessment to set clear expectations.
Recovery time varies depending on the procedure and the individual. LASIK and SMILE often provide improved vision within 24 to 48 hours, although vision may continue to stabilise over time. PRK typically involves a longer recovery period, with vision improving more gradually over several days and stabilising over a few weeks. Lens-based procedures such as ICL or refractive lens exchange may improve vision within a few days, with further stabilisation over the following weeks. You will be given clear guidance on recovery and follow-up care based on your treatment.
Vision correction procedures are generally performed using anaesthetic eye drops to ensure comfort during treatment. Most patients report minimal discomfort during the procedure, with some temporary irritation or dryness afterwards, which is discussed as part of the assessment process.
Vision correction at Moorfields UAE is delivered within a clinical system aligned with Moorfields London, where procedures follow established protocols and outcomes are continuously audited. Patients are treated by internationally trained consultants, many with fellowship training in cornea and refractive surgery and over 20 years of experience, who specialise in vision correction across a wide range of cases. Collectively, Moorfields UAE surgeons have performed more than 35,000 vision correction procedures.
