Predicting Success: The Crucial Role of Preoperative Data in Refractive Surgery Outcomes

Refractive surgery, which includes techniques such as Laser-Assisted In Situ Keratomileusis (LASIK), Photorefractive Keratectomy (PRK) and Small Incision Lenticule Extraction (SMILE), has revolutionized ophthalmology by offering advanced solutions for vision correction. However, the choice of the technique to be used in the individual patient is highly dependent on a thorough preoperative evaluation. This retrospective study aims to investigate how preoperative parameters, including corneal thickness, topography, and refraction, affect long-term post-operative clinical outcomes. Through a systematic review of the literature published between 2000 and 2023, we identify the main predictors of success for each surgical technique. This study emphasizes the importance of personalized surgical strategies based on meticulous preoperative analysis.