---
title: What Happens If Retreatment Is Needed?
description: "Retreatment is considered only after refractive stability, typically 3-6 months post-operatively. It is a structured, safety-driven process. **Assessment before retreatment** - Repeat refraction - Topography/tomography - Pachymetry - Ocular surface evaluation - RSB calculation using ectasia risk models ¹ **Retreatment…"
url: "https://bluefinvision.com/knowledge-base/topics/recovery-aftercare/what-happens-if-retreatment-is-needed/"
updated: "2026-03-02"
category: "Recovery & Aftercare"
---

# What Happens If Retreatment Is Needed?

Retreatment is considered only after refractive stability, typically 3-6 months post-operatively. It is a structured, safety-driven process.

**Assessment before retreatment**

- Repeat refraction
- Topography/tomography
- Pachymetry
- Ocular surface evaluation
- RSB calculation using ectasia risk models ¹

**Retreatment options**

- Flap lift (if LASIK)
- Surface ablation over prior LASIK
- PRK enhancement
- Non-surgical options if anatomy is unsuitable

**Cost implications**

Retreatment cost depends on the clinic's policy:

- Included within a defined window
- Reduced-rate enhancement
- Full-price retreatment

**Safety over cost**

If retreatment is unsafe, alternatives such as spectacles or ICL may be recommended.

**References**

1. Ong HS, Farook M, Tan BBS, et al. Corneal ectasia risk and percentage tissue altered in myopic patients presenting for refractive surgery. *Clin Ophthalmol.* 2019;13:2053-2060.

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