LASIK vs Flow3: Flap vs Flapless Laser Eye Surgery

Two approaches to laser vision correction

Laser eye surgery splits into two main categories: flap-based and flapless procedures. KSA Silmakeskus has performed both. We were once the largest LASIK provider in the Baltics, and we've helped thousands regain clear vision without glasses. But in 2010, we made a decision: we stopped doing flap-based surgery entirely. Here's why.

LASIK — the procedure that launched KSA — remains one of the world's most recognised methods for correcting myopia. Both LASIK and SMILE involve creating an incision in the cornea. The technology evolved: surgeons once used a microkeratome blade; lasers replaced it. Either way, you're cutting.

With Flow3 and other flapless methods, there is no incision. No blade, no laser cut. Vision is corrected entirely from the surface using laser energy — making it truly touchless. During the procedure, laser pulses gently thin the corneal surface by just micrometres. That reshaping frees you from myopia.

Decades of expertise. Both paths.

Between 2007 and 2010, KSA ran both LASIK and flapless procedures in parallel. This wasn't casual comparison — it was rigorous investigation. Over three years, we analysed the strengths and weaknesses of each approach, consulted colleagues across Europe and America, attended global refractive surgery conferences, and visited leading centres across the continent.

Despite being the Baltics' leading LASIK clinic, KSA made a definitive choice in 2010: abandon flap-based surgery and transition entirely to Flow3 flapless technology.

"We spoke with patients and reviewed their feedback carefully," explains Dr Ants Haavel, KSA's founder and ophthalmologist. "The data was clear: flapless laser surgery delivers superior clinical outcomes and higher patient satisfaction for myopia correction."

More importantly, the flapless approach became dramatically safer and simpler for patients, with more stable vision quality. "We've also noticed that the need for enhancement procedures is substantially lower with Flow3," Dr Haavel adds.

Why flapless wins on the long view

One argument for LASIK: faster early recovery and quicker visual clarity. In the first two weeks after surgery, LASIK patients often reported better results. But over months and years, flapless technology shows decisive advantages.

"First, since 2010 we haven't seen a single case of the chronic dry eye syndrome we occasionally encountered in LASIK patients," Dr Haavel notes. "Flapless procedures may cause temporary dryness — it's rare and it passes.

"Second, after thousands of procedures, flapless treatment doesn't compromise corneal stability long-term. There's no structural weakness from a flap. Vision remains steady. Third, if a retreatment is ever needed, there's no scar tissue to navigate — we have full tissue to work with."

What matters most

The numbers don't lie: 55,000+ procedures at KSA, and our entire clinical team chose Flow3 for their own eyes. That's not marketing. That's trust.

If you're considering laser eye surgery in Tallinn, the choice between these two technologies matters. Learn more about Flow3 or check our pricing. If you're not a laser candidate, we also offer ICB lens replacement — another option KSA pioneered.

Book a consultation with our team. We'll be honest about what suits your eyes.