[Hinews] [Physician's Column] By Junhyeon Kim, Director of Apgujeong Eye Clinic

Patients who undergo LASIK or LASEK surgery generally expect long-lasting clear vision, yet some may experience a gradual decline in visual acuity over time. While several factors may contribute, myopia regression is frequently identified as the leading cause.

When myopia regression occurs, a detailed assessment is essential to determine the most suitable re-treatment approach. Myopia regression refers to the gradual remodeling of the cornea after laser surgery, which can alter its refractive power and reduce visual clarity. LASIK and LASEK procedures flatten the cornea to correct refractive errors, but in certain cases, corneal tissue regeneration can lead to diminished visual clarity over time.

Patients with severe or progressive myopia prior to surgery may face additional challenges. Even if the cornea remains stable post-surgery, elongation of the eye’s axial length can cause myopia to worsen.
The likelihood of myopia regression depends on multiple factors—such as patient age, surgical technique, operative conditions, surgeon expertise, and genetic predisposition—making precise prediction difficult. However, higher levels of myopia necessitate greater corneal tissue removal, which increases the risk of regression. Research indicates that regression is more prevalent among LASEK patients than those who undergo LASIK.

Junhyeon Kim, Director of Apgujeong Eye Clinic
Junhyeon Kim, Director of Apgujeong Eye Clinic


When regression occurs, vision can often be restored through re-treatment. The condition of the remaining corneal tissue may dictate a different surgical approach for the second procedure. Repeated laser-based corrections on an already-thinned cornea carry risks, prompting many ophthalmologists to recommend EVO+ ICL (Implantable Collamer Lens) surgery as a safer alternative.

EVO+ ICL surgery involves placing a specialized lens behind the iris without altering the cornea, thereby minimizing the risk of regression linked to corneal remodeling. This option is suitable even for patients with thin residual corneas. Additionally, the lens can be removed or replaced if necessary, providing significant flexibility.
Re-treatment for myopia regression following LASIK or LASEK requires considerable surgical expertise, making the choice of clinic paramount. Experienced surgeons can perform EVO+ ICL surgery efficiently, often within minutes per eye, and many hold manufacturer certifications—a qualification patients should verify.

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