Freedom from glasses
Refractive Surgery in Cachan and Paris: Dr Tourabaly
LASIK, PKR, SMILE and Phakic Implant: 4 techniques to permanently correct myopia, hyperopia and astigmatism. Dr Tourabaly guides you toward the solution best suited to your eyes.
A common dilemma between the two lasers: LASIK or SMILE: the comparison to understand which technique suits which profile.
What is refractive surgery?
Refractive surgery covers all the surgical techniques used to correct vision defects: myopia, hyperopia, astigmatism and presbyopia: in order to reduce or eliminate dependence on glasses and contact lenses. These procedures either modify the curvature of the cornea (laser techniques) or add a corrective lens inside the eye (implants).
Dr Moïse Tourabaly, ophthalmic surgeon in Cachan (94) and Paris 13, is proficient in the 4 main refractive surgery techniques. The choice of technique depends on your ocular anatomy, evaluated during a comprehensive pre-operative assessment. The safety of refractive surgery rests precisely on this rigorous selection of candidates.
The 4 refractive surgery techniques
LASIK
A worldwide reference technique. A corneal flap is created with a femtosecond laser, then the cornea is reshaped with an excimer laser. Very fast recovery (24h). Corrects myopia (-10 D), hyperopia (+5 D) and astigmatism.
PKR
Surface laser, without a flap. Indicated for thin corneas, occupations with a risk of trauma, and in cases of pre-existing dry eye (it does not sever the corneal nerves). Same long-term result as LASIK. Recovery 3-5 days.
SMILE
3rd generation, minimally invasive. A lenticule is extracted through a 2 mm micro-incision. Less dry eye than LASIK. Myopia and astigmatism (-10 D); hyperopia is a recent indication. Recovery 2-3 days.
Phakic Implant
Intraocular lens for high myopia (-8 to -20 D) when laser is not possible. Reversible, with vision quality superior to laser. Biocompatible ICL/IPCL.
Comparison table of techniques
| Criterion | LASIK | PKR | SMILE | Implant |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Max myopia | -10 D | -6 D | -10 D | -20 D |
| Hyperopia | +5 D | +3 D | Recent | +10 D |
| Recovery | 24-48h | 3-5 days | 2-3 days | 24h |
| Thin cornea | No | Yes | Possible | Yes |
| Reversibility | No | No | No | Yes |
| Post-op dry eye | Moderate | Low | Very low | None |
| Pre-existing dry eye | Caution | Favorable | Favorable | Favorable |
| Reimbursement | No | No | No | No |
“Recent”: hyperopia by SMILE is a recent indication, with more limited clinical follow-up than for myopia. “Caution / Favorable” indicate how well the technique fits cases of pre-existing dry eye. Figures are indicative: only the pre-operative assessment determines the appropriate technique.
How to choose the right technique?
The choice is not yours alone: it rests on the objective results of the pre-operative assessment:
- Thick cornea + moderate myopia → LASIK (fastest recovery)
- Thin cornea → PKR (maximum safety) or SMILE
- Pre-existing dry eye → PKR (surface laser, without a flap) or SMILE (preserves corneal innervation)
- High myopia > -8 D or very thin cornea → Phakic implant
- Hyperopia → LASIK, PKR or phakic implant; SMILE as a recent indication
Dr Tourabaly will always propose the safest and most effective technique for you. If no technique is indicated, he will tell you so clearly.
Go further
Preparing for your refractive surgery
Our offices
Refractive surgery with Dr Tourabaly
Cachan (94)
1 Ter Rue Camille Desmoulins, 94230 Cachan
Tel: 01 45 47 08 11
Paris 13: Diabet’ Paris 13
Paris 13th arrondissement
Tel: 01 89 31 30 60
Frequently asked questions — Refractive surgery
What is the difference between LASIK, PKR and SMILE?
All three reshape the cornea with the same excimer laser. LASIK creates a corneal flap with a femtosecond laser, allowing fast recovery within 24 to 48 hours. PKR works on the surface, without a flap, which suits thin corneas. SMILE removes a thin lenticule through a 2 mm micro-incision, with less post-operative dryness. The choice depends on your cornea and your correction.
Which vision problems can refractive surgery correct?
Myopia, hyperopia, astigmatism and, after age 45, presbyopia (PresbyLASIK). The correction limits are specific to each technique and are defined during the pre-operative assessment.
How do I know if I am a good candidate?
Eligibility is decided case by case, after a complete assessment (corneal topography, aberrometry, pachymetry). It checks the thickness and regularity of the cornea, the stability of your correction and the absence of contraindications such as keratoconus or severe dry eye.
Is the procedure painful?
The eye is numbed with anaesthetic drops, so the procedure itself is not painful. After PKR, stinging and light sensitivity are common for a few days while the corneal surface heals. After LASIK or SMILE, any discomfort is usually brief.
What are the risks?
No surgery is without risk. The most common effects are dry eye and temporary night-time halos; serious complications remain rare. The pre-operative assessment is designed precisely to evaluate and reduce these risks before an operation is proposed.
How long does recovery take?
After LASIK or SMILE, functional vision returns within 24 to 48 hours. After PKR, recovery is more gradual, over a few days to one or two weeks. The timing for resuming sport, work and driving is specified case by case.
Is refractive surgery reimbursed?
No: refractive surgery is not covered by French statutory health insurance, as it is considered an elective procedure. Some complementary insurers contribute to the cost. Detailed fees are shown on the Fees page.
Where do the assessment and the procedure take place?
The refractive surgery assessment takes place at the Cachan practice. The laser procedure is performed in an operating theatre at the Clinique Laser Victor Hugo (Paris 16).
This article is for informational purposes. A personalized ophthalmological opinion remains essential for any treatment decision.
Written and medically reviewed by Dr Moïse Tourabaly, ophthalmologist — former chief resident (Quinze-Vingts National Eye Hospital). Last updated: July 6, 2026