Factors Predicting Slow Visual Recovery Following Hyperopic LASIK

PURPOSE: To identify factors predicting slow visual recovery following hyperopic laser in situ keratomileusis (LASIK). METHODS: The study included consecutive patients who underwent hyperopic LASIK between January 2005 and December 2019 at a single medical center. Patients were divided into two groups according to whether they experienced normal recovery of visual acuity (1-week visit) or slow visual recovery (1-month visit). Visual recovery was defined as achieving an efficacy index of 0.9 or greater. Efficacy index was calculated as postoperative uncorrected distance visual acuity / preoperative corrected distance visual acuity. A comparison of baseline and intraoperative parameters was performed. Binary logistic regression was performed to identify potential predictors of slow visual recovery. RESULTS: Overall, 861 eyes of 861 patients were included. Mean age was 48.0 +/- 9.5 years and 55.9% were women. Two hundred forty-nine patients (28.9%) experienced slow visual recovery. Younger age (P=.01), a larger preoperative spherical equivalence (P=.002), and greater maximum ablation depth (P=.002) were predictors of slow visual recovery. In binary logistic regression, female gender (P=.036) and greater spherical equivalence (P=.007) remained significant predictors of slow visual recovery. CONCLUSIONS: Female gender and greater preoperative spherical equivalence were associated with slow visual recovery. Patients may be advised accordingly.