A Brief History of Corneal Refractive Surgery

Abstract

The invention of corneal refractive surgery changed the lives of millions of people worldwide. Its development has undergone a remarkable evolution over more than a century. This review outlines the main milestones in the history of laser refractive procedures, from radial keratotomy to high-quality femtosecond laser procedures. Attention is given to the ophthalmic surgery pioneers, such as Sato, Fyodorov, Barraquer, Trokel, and Pallikaris. This article highlights the historical trajectory and technological breakthroughs that have transformed refractive surgery into a widely accessible and highly effective solution for visual correction.