- Medically Reviewed by Mr Mfazo Hove Consultant Ophthalmologist
- Author: Chris Dunnington
- Published: July 8, 2025
When it comes to restoring clear, natural vision and reducing dependence on glasses, modern laser eye surgery offers a range of highly effective solutions. For patients in London seeking the best in refractive surgery, understanding the difference between PresbyMAX® and LASIK is essential. At Blue Fin Vision® Eye Clinic, on Harley Street Street, our top-rated team of leading surgeons and specialists provides tailored solutions using the most advanced technology available.
This article explores how PresbyMAX® and LASIK differ, who each procedure is best suited for, and why Blue Fin Vision® is the trusted choice for laser eye surgery in London.
Understanding Laser Eye Surgery
Laser eye surgery refers to a group of procedures that reshape the cornea to correct refractive errors such as myopia (short-sightedness), hyperopia (long-sightedness), astigmatism, and presbyopia (age-related loss of near vision). The two most widely recognised procedures are LASIK and, for presbyopia, advanced solutions such as PresbyMAX®.
What Is LASIK?
LASIK (Laser-Assisted In Situ Keratomileusis) is the most well-known form of laser eye surgery. It is designed to correct short-sightedness, long-sightedness, and astigmatism. The procedure involves:
- Creating a thin protective flap on the cornea using a femtosecond laser.
- Lifting the flap and using an excimer laser to reshape the underlying corneal tissue.
- Replacing the flap, which naturally adheres without stitches.
Key Advantages of LASIK:
- Rapid visual recovery – most patients notice significantly improved vision within a day or two.
- Minimal discomfort during and after the procedure.
- Suitable for a wide range of prescriptions.
Limitations of LASIK:
- While LASIK is highly effective for distance vision, it does not address presbyopia. Most patients over 40 will still require reading glasses for near tasks, as LASIK does not restore the eye’s ability to focus at multiple distances.
- Not all patients are suitable for LASIK, especially those with thin corneas or certain ocular health conditions.
What Is PresbyMAX®?
PresbyMAX® is an advanced, minimally invasive laser eye surgery specifically designed for the correction of presbyopia. Unlike conventional LASIK, PresbyMAX® uses the technologically advanced SCHWIND AMARIS laser system to create a multifocal, bi-aspheric ablation profile on the cornea. This innovative approach enables clear vision at near, intermediate, and distance ranges – all in a single procedure.
How PresbyMAX® Works:
- The laser sculpts the cornea to create multiple focal zones:
- Central zone for near vision (e.g., reading)
- Intermediate zone for tasks such as computer work
- Peripheral zone for distance vision (e.g., driving)
- The transition between these zones is smooth, supporting stable and high-quality vision at every distance.
- The procedure is completed in just a few minutes, with the laser ablation itself taking only seconds.
- Unlike lens replacement surgery, PresbyMAX® does not touch or remove the eye’s natural lens.
Key Advantages of PresbyMAX®:
- Visual Acuity at All Distances: Patients enjoy high-quality vision for near, intermediate, and distance tasks, reducing or eliminating the need for reading glasses.
- Minimally Invasive: No incisions or stitches are required, and the natural lens remains intact.
- Rapid Recovery: Most patients notice a swift restoration of near vision within hours, with further improvements in distance and intermediate vision following soon after.
- Simultaneous Correction: PresbyMAX® can correct myopia, hyperopia, and astigmatism at the same time as presbyopia.
- High Satisfaction: Extensive clinical data and thousands of successful procedures worldwide demonstrate impressive results and high patient satisfaction.
PresbyMAX® vs LASIK: What Are the Main Differences?
If you are considering PresbyMAX® vs LASIK, here are the crucial distinctions to help you make an informed choice:
- Treatment Focus:
- LASIK: Best for correcting single-vision problems (distance or near), not presbyopia itself.
- PresbyMAX®: Specifically designed for presbyopia, providing multifocal vision at near, intermediate, and distance ranges.
- Technology:
- LASIK: Uses a single ablation profile to reshape the cornea for one focal point.
- PresbyMAX®: Employs a bi-aspheric, multifocal ablation profile, creating multiple focal points for seamless vision at all distances.
- Suitability:
- LASIK: Ideal for younger adults with stable prescriptions who want to correct myopia, hyperopia, or astigmatism.
- PresbyMAX®: Suited for individuals aged 45 and above experiencing presbyopia, including those with other refractive errors or who have had previous laser eye surgery.
- Visual Outcome:
- LASIK: Provides excellent distance vision but does not restore near vision for those with presbyopia.
- PresbyMAX®: Delivers clear vision at all distances, often allowing patients to read, work, and drive without glasses.
- Adaptation:
- LASIK: Rapid adaptation, with most patients achieving stable vision within days.
- PresbyMAX®: Near vision often improves within hours; full adaptation to multifocal vision typically occurs within several weeks.
- Personalisation:
- LASIK: Customised to your prescription and corneal shape.
- PresbyMAX®: Fully tailored to your unique visual needs, lifestyle, and expectations, with several treatment variants available.
Who Is a Candidate for PresbyMAX® or LASIK?
PresbyMAX® may be ideal if you:
- Are aged 45 or above and frustrated by the need for reading glasses.
- Have presbyopia, with or without myopia, hyperopia, or astigmatism.
- Have previously undergone laser eye surgery and now require near vision correction.
- Have had cataract surgery but still need reading glasses.
- Desire a minimally invasive, rapid-recovery solution for vision correction.
LASIK may be right for you if you:
- Are over 21.
- Wish to correct myopia, hyperopia, or astigmatism.
- Do not yet have significant presbyopia or are comfortable using reading glasses for near tasks.
A comprehensive assessment with one of our top doctors or leading surgeons at Blue Fin Vision® Eye Clinic will determine which treatment is best suited to your eyes and lifestyle.
Why Choose Blue Fin Vision® Eye Clinic for Laser Eye Surgery?
Blue Fin Vision® Eye Clinic stands out as one of the best and most trusted eye clinics in London, with a reputation built on clinical excellence, advanced technology, and a commitment to personalised care. Our Harley Street location is home to top-rated specialists and leading surgeons with extensive experience in both LASIK and PresbyMAX® procedures.
What sets us apart:
- Expertise: Our team of top doctors and specialists are renowned for their skill in laser eye surgery for presbyopia and other refractive errors.
- Advanced Technology: We use the latest SCHWIND AMARIS and excimer laser platforms, ensuring precise, safe, and effective results.
- Personalised Care: Every patient receives a bespoke treatment plan, clear communication, and compassionate support throughout their journey.
- Outstanding Results: We focus on delivering the best possible visual outcomes, helping you regain independence from glasses and enjoy life with renewed clarity.
- Minimally Invasive Procedures: Both LASIK and PresbyMAX® are performed under local anaesthetic drops, with no stitches and rapid return to daily activities.
Take the Next Step Towards Clear Vision at Every Distance
If you are considering PresbyMAX® vs LASIK and want to experience the benefits of world-leading technology and personalised care, trust your vision to the experts at Blue Fin Vision® Eye Clinic. Book your comprehensive consultation at our Harley Street, London clinic today and discover how our top-rated surgeons and specialists can help you achieve the freedom and clarity you deserve.
Your vision deserves the expertise, technology, and compassionate care that Blue Fin Vision® is renowned for. Contact us now and take the first step towards a life without reading glasses or single-focus vision.
Blue Fin Vision® Eye Clinic: Where advanced technology meets compassionate, expert care. Trust your vision to London’s leading specialists in PresbyMAX® and LASIK laser eye surgery.
