Femtosecond Laser Lenticular Extraction (LEX)

LEX is a minimally invasive laser eye surgery designed to correct short-sight and astigmatism with precision, comfort, and long-term visual stability.

FDA Approved

Advanced Technology

Femtosecond Laser Lenticular Extraction (LEX) At a Glance

LEX is an advanced form of laser vision correction that reshapes the eye from within the cornea, offering a flap-free alternative to LASIK for suitable patients.

10-15 minutes per eye

LEX can correct short-sightedness (myopia) and astigmatism.

Vision may initially be blurred and usually improves over the following days.

UK pioneers in laser vision correction using advanced femtosecond laser platforms

Key Benefits

What is LEX?

Femtosecond Laser Lenticular Extraction (LEX) is a modern laser eye surgery that corrects vision by removing a precisely shaped piece of tissue (called a lenticule) from within the cornea. Using a femtosecond laser, the lenticule is created entirely inside the cornea and removed through a very small incision. By altering the shape of the cornea from within, LEX allows light to focus correctly on the retina, improving vision without the need for glasses or contact lenses. Unlike LASIK, LEX does not require a corneal flap, making it an attractive option for patients seeking a minimally invasive approach to vision correction.

Types of Laser Eye Surgery

There are several types of laser eye surgery, each designed to suit different eyes, prescriptions and lifestyles. All laser vision correction procedures use an excimer laser to precisely remove microscopic amounts of corneal tissue, reshaping the eye so light focuses correctly on the retina and correcting refractive errors such as short-sight (myopia), long-sight (hyperopia) and astigmatism.

1

LASIK is the most commonly performed form of laser eye surgery. It involves creating a thin flap on the surface of the cornea before the excimer laser reshapes the underlying tissue. The flap is then repositioned to aid healing. LASIK is known for its accuracy, comfort and rapid visual recovery, with many patients achieving clear vision within 24 hours.

2

LASEK and PRK are surface-based laser treatments that reshape the cornea without creating a flap. Instead, the outer surface layer is gently moved aside or removed so the laser can correct the cornea directly. These procedures are often recommended for people with thinner or irregular corneas, or those with active lifestyles or contact sports. Recovery takes longer than LASIK, but long-term visual results are equally effective.

3

Supracor LASIK is a customised laser treatment designed to correct near, intermediate and distance vision, reducing reliance on reading glasses. It uses a specialised multifocal laser profile to extend the eye’s range of focus. Supracor is often suitable for people aged 40 and over who are experiencing presbyopia and want greater visual freedom without bifocals or varifocals.

4

A flap-free, keyhole laser procedure reshaping the cornea from within, ideal for suitable myopic patients.

Comparing Laser Eye Surgery Procedures

Different laser eye surgery techniques are available to suit various vision correction needs and eye conditions. Here's a comprehensive comparison to help you understand your options.

Procedure

Type

Best

For

Recovery Time

Procedure

Details

Success Rate

LASIK

Laser-Assisted In Situ Keratomileusis

Most refractive errors, active lifestyles, quick recovery needed

24-48

Hours

Creates corneal flap, reshapes underlying tissue

96-98%

PRK / LASEK

Photorefractive Keratectomy

Thin corneas, contact sports, military personnel

3-5

Days

Removes surface layer, reshapes cornea directly

94-96%

Supracor LASIK

Laser-Assisted In Situ Keratomileusis (multifocal profile)

Presbyopia (age-related near vision loss); patients wanting reduced dependence on reading glasses

24-72

Hours

Creates a corneal flap and applies a customised multifocal laser profile to improve near, intermediate and distance vision

92-96%

LEX

Femtosecond Laser Lenticular Extraction

Short-sightedness (myopia) and astigmatism; suitable patients looking for a flap-free option

Several

Days

Femtosecond laser creates a precisely shaped lenticule within the cornea, which is removed through a small incision. No corneal flap is created.

Am I suitable for LEX?

Laser eye surgery can be life-changing for many people, but it isn’t right for everyone and determining suitability starts with a thorough, consultant-led assessment of your eyes.

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LEX may be suitable if you:

Are short-sighted (myopic), with or without astigmatism

Have healthy eyes and stable vision

Prefer a flap-free laser eye surgery option

Have corneal measurements suitable for lenticule extraction

Lead an active lifestyle or work in environments where flap-based surgery may be less ideal

A white eye icon with a circular outline is centered on a solid red background.

Suitability is confirmed through comprehensive diagnostic testing, including corneal imaging and ocular health assessment. Your consultant will recommend LEX only if it is the safest and most effective option for your eyes.

Not Sure If You're Eligible?

Schedule a comprehensive eye examination to determine your candidacy for LEX laser eye surgery.

What are the benefits and risks of LEX?

Your consultant will provide a personalised discussion based on your individual eye profile.

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Benefits (vary by procedure):

Flap-free, minimally invasive laser correction

Preserves corneal biomechanics

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Risks/side effects (not exhaustive):

Temporary dryness or visual fluctuations during healing

Enhancements, while uncommon, may occasionally be required

Costs and Finance Options

LEX pricing is bespoke and reflects the personalised nature of treatment planning and technology used.

LASEK / PRK

From £2,593

Per Eye

Suitable for thin or irregular corneas

Consultant-led surgery

Advanced diagnostics and treatment planning

Surface laser correction

24-hour emergency support

Full aftercare support

Optional 0% APR finance up to 24 months

Femtosecond Laser LEX

Bespoke Price

Per Eye

Consultant-led laser surgery

Advanced femtosecond laser technology

Flap-free, minimally invasive procedure

24-hour emergency support

Comprehensive care package

Full aftercare support

Supracor LASIK

From £2,829

Per Eye

Designed to correct near, intermediate and distance

Consultant-led surgery

Advanced diagnostics and treatment planning

Surface laser correction

24-hour emergency support

Full aftercare support

Optional 0% APR finance up to 24 months

Flexible Finance Options

Private Medical Insurance

Many of our Consultants work with all the major insurance providers*

Self Pay

Pay in full for patients who prefer a straightforward approach

0% APR Financing

6-24 month finance options. Credit is provided subject to affordability, age and status. Minimum spend applies.

Military Discount

5% discount for active military and veterans

*Private Medical Insurance is unlikely to cover Laser Eye Surgery Procedures, Implantable Contact Lenses, or Laser Lens Replacement

*Private Medical Insurance is unlikely to cover Laser Eye Surgery Procedures, Implantable Contact Lenses, Laser Lens Replacement or any other cosmetic procedures.

FAQs

Below you will find answers to some of the most common questions about LEX laser eye surgery, helping you understand what to expect and whether treatment could be right for you.

LEX does not involve creating a corneal flap and reshapes the eye from within the cornea.

The procedure is comfortable and performed with numbing eye drops.

Most patients notice improved vision within days, with ongoing refinement over weeks.

Many patients achieve excellent distance vision; outcomes depend on individual prescription.

Centre for Sight combines consultant-led care, advanced laser technology, and decades of refractive expertise.

Have Questions?

Our patient care team is here to answer any questions you may have.

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Certifications & Recognition

The Power List 2026

Global Top 50: Mr. Sheraz Daya

Top 1% Surgeons

National recognition

CQC Accredited

Highest safety standards

5-Star Rated

Patient satisfaction