Deliberate overcorrection is a technique used by some surgeons to accommodate anticipated regression and ultimately provide the desired results from surgery.

The cornea tends to regress back toward the original refractive error after some refractive surgery procedures. During healing after refractive surgery, both the epithelium and the deeper stroma can reshape and reform at different rates and cause regression. This occurs mostly in myopic patients who have more than 6.0 diopters of refractive error and virtually all hyperopic patients.  A surgeon may deliberately overcorrect a patient to accommodate expected levels of regression.

Regression occurs more commonly with smaller optical ablation diameters and with abrupt transition zones at the edge of the treatment areas. Steroid medications can be used to regulate and control regression.

Although regression seems to be more prevalent the higher the refractive error, regression can occur in anyone.  For myopic patients, regression usually occurs within the first one to three months after surgery.  Depending upon the individual circumstances and the technique used for correction, hyperopic patients may continue to regress over a period of years until they return to their original refractive error.

If you have regression that is problematic and would like further evaluation and possible resolution treatment from a Second Response Team doctor who is experienced in treating dry eye, please feel free to request a doctor referral.

Revised: May 25, 2005