Refractive surgery is a medical procedure designed to correct vision problems, such as nearsightedness, farsightedness, and astigmatism. It works by reshaping the cornea, the clear front part of the eye, to improve how light is focused on the retina. Common types of refractive surgery include LASIK and PRK, which use lasers to alter the cornea's shape. The goal of refractive surgery is to reduce or eliminate the need for glasses or contact lenses. Most candidates are adults with stable vision who meet specific criteria. The procedures are generally quick, often taking less than 30 minutes, and recovery times can vary.