Refractive Surgery (LASIK & PRK)
Refractive surgery is a reliable, effective, and permanent method for correcting refractive errors - myopia, hypermetropia, and astigmatism. It eliminates or significantly reduces the need for glasses and contact lenses.

When is it needed?
Refractive surgery is an option for anyone with a prescription between -10 and +4 who wants clear vision without glasses or contact lenses. A detailed pre-operative examination is required before the procedure to determine whether you are a suitable candidate. You must be at least 21 years old, have a stable prescription for the past year, and take an appropriate break from contact lens wear before the examination and procedure:
7 days for soft lenses,
30 days for hard or rigid gas-permeable lenses.
Important note: Refractive surgery corrects distance vision, but does not change the natural ageing process of the lens. If you already wear reading glasses, some form of near correction will still be needed after the procedure. Those not yet of presbyopic age should be aware that, once they reach their forties, they will notice the need for reading glasses - just like everyone else who has never worn glasses.
What does the pre-operative examination include?
A detailed pre-operative examination is required before every procedure. It takes up to an hour and includes:
general and ophthalmological history
best corrected visual acuity measurement
schirmer's tear secretion test
intraocular pressure measurement
anterior segment examination
dilated fundus examination
corneal topography with the Allegro Oculyzer to assess whether the cornea is suitable for the procedure
How is it performed?
An excimer laser removes microscopic particles of tissue from the corneal stroma without thermal damage to surrounding tissue, precisely reshaping the cornea and correcting the refractive error. The laser itself takes only a few seconds.
Depending on corneal anatomy, one of two methods is used:
LASIK uses a specialised instrument (microkeratome) to create a thin surface flap, under which the laser reshapes the stroma; the flap is then repositioned.
PRK is used for patients with thinner corneas - the laser works directly on the corneal surface without creating a flap.
The outcome is the same with both methods. The choice is made together by the surgeon and patient based on the pre-operative findings.
What to expect?
In the first few days, mild discomfort, temporary blurred vision, and light sensitivity are possible. The first check-up is the day after the procedure. After LASIK, drops are used for one month; after PRK, for three months. Fully clear vision is achieved after one month, and most patients return to work within a week.
It is recommended to avoid rubbing your eyes, wearing make-up, and swimming or contact sports for the period your surgeon advises at the follow-up.
Milmedic Clinic performs procedures using the state-of-the-art Wavelight Allegretto excimer laser (400Hz). Procedures are performed by Prof. Dr Miroslav Vukosavljević, Prof. Dr Mirko Resan, and Dr Elisaveta Stanić with their team.
Frequently asked questions
Is refractive surgery painful?
The procedure is performed under local anaesthetic drops and is not painful. You may feel mild pressure during the procedure.
How long does the procedure itself take?
The laser phase takes only a few seconds per eye. Total time in the operating room, including preparation and the procedure, is usually up to 15 minutes.
What happens if I move during the procedure?
During laser correction, the device tracks eye movement via an eye-tracker. If the eye moves more than permitted, the laser automatically stops. The procedure resumes only when the eye is back in the correct position - precision and safety are always ensured.
Can both eyes be treated on the same day?
If both eyes are indicated for treatment, they can usually be operated on the same day. The final decision is made individually based on the pre-operative findings.
A life without glasses is not a dream - for most people, it is entirely achievable.
Find out whether you are a candidate for refractive surgery and which method is right for you.