In 1987, ophthalmologist, Steven Trokel performed the first laser surgery on a patient’s eyes, and later patented the Excimer laser for vision correction. Trokel, affiliated with Columbia Presbyterian Medical Center in New York City, collaborated in 1983 with IBM researchers who had explored ways to use the excimer laser since 1973.

The excimer laser alters the refractive state of the eye by removing tissue from the anterior cornea through a process known as photoablative decomposition. This process uses ultraviolet energy from the excimer laser to disrupt chemical bonds in the cornea without causing any thermal damage to surrounding tissue.

The modified anterior corneal surface enables light to be focused on the retina, thereby reducing or eliminating the dependence on glasses and contact lenses. We discuss in detail all aspects of excimer laser refractive surgery–techniques, indications and contraindications, clinical outcomes, and complications.