AIM:To compare the results of laser subepithelial keratomileusis(LASEK)and laser in situ keratomileusis(LASIK)for the correction of moderate myopia.

METHODS:A retrospective analysis was performed in average uncorrected visual acuity(UCVA)and refraction of 2 488 cases 4 778 eyes operated with LASEK or LASIK in our hospital, from 2005 to 2012, and followed up more than 6mo to observe the surgical effect.

RESULTS: Three days after corneal refractive surgery, average UCVA was lower and refraction was higher in LASEK group than that in LASIK group, however, these were no statistic differences between the two groups in 30d, 90d and 180d follow-up.

CONCLUSION: LASEK and LASIK seem to be similar in terms of safety and efficacy for the correction of moderate myopia.