Two-step procedure to enlarge small optical zones after photorefractive keratectomy for high myopia

Abstract

We describe a method for the visual rehabilitation of patients with small optical zones and related complaints after photorefractive keratectomy (PRK) and laser in situ keratomileusis for high myopia. In many of these cases from the early 1990s, low central corneal thickness in combination with residual myopia did not allow for enlargement of the small optical zone by a topography-guided treatment in the first instance. We therefore perform, as a first step, a clear lens exchange aiming at hyperopia. This enables us to perform, as a second step, a topography-guided customized PRK with marked enlargement of the optical zone. Such 2-step procedures may be of great benefit to patients with small optical zones and low central corneal thickness.