Refractive Surgery

Module overview

Studied via distance learning, this standalone module is designed for those with a foundational understanding of refractive surgery. It explores the selection, assessment and management of patients undergoing refractive surgery. The module examines various approaches to patient management and the instrumentation used in refractive procedures.

Topics covered include basic ocular anatomy, pre-operative assessment, corneal topography and the theory behind both laser and lens-based refractive surgery. The module also addresses cataract and lens surgery, intraoperative complications and post-operative management. Additional focus is given to patient counselling, marketing strategies and co-management.

This is a level 7 module (equivalent level of study to a postgraduate or masters degree) worth 20 credits.

Module tutor(s): Professor Shehzad Naroo

This module is based on the Refractive Surgery syllabus outlined by the Royal College of Ophthalmologists. Completion of both Refractive Surgery and Refractive Surgery 2 modules prepares candidates for the RCOphth Refraction Certificate exam. The Royal College of Ophthalmologists recognises these modules as preparation for the examinations.

Why Refractive Surgery at Aston University?

Excellent prospects

Ranked 2nd in the UK for ‘graduate prospects – on track’ (Optometry, Ophthalmics and Orthoptics; Complete University Guide, 2025)

Specialist facilities

Access cutting-edge equipment in our ophthalmic simulation suite

Research active staff

Learn from passionate research-active academics in specialist areas of optometry, ophthalmics and orthoptics

Objectives and outcomes

Enables you to select, assess and manage patients choosing refractive surgery, while examining various management approaches and their practical implementation.
Provides you with an understanding of the instrumentation used in refractive surgery.

On successful completion of this module you will be able to:

Understand the different types of refractive surgery procedures.
Assess patient requirements and choices in refractive surgery to aid in selecting the appropriate technique.
Demonstrate a detailed understanding of the complications that may arise from refractive surgery procedures and how to manage them effectively.
Comprehend patient counselling and co-management related to refractive surgery.

Speak to our Admissions Team

If you have any questions about the application process please get in touch with our postgraduate admissions team:

Email: professionalcpd@aston.ac.uk

Read our guide to applying

Entry requirements

You must be a clinician in the field of ophthalmology or optometry, including nurses, dispensing opticians and contact lens opticians.

Fees

UK students (2024/25)

£1,300

More information on fees

The United Kingdom government has confirmed that European Union (EU), other European Economic Area (EEA) and Swiss nationals commencing academic courses in England from August 2021 will no longer be charged the same tuition rates as UK students.

Tuition fees for students are reviewed annually and may increase in subsequent years in line with inflation linked to the Retail Price Index (RPI) to take account of the University’s increased costs of delivering the Programme. Any such increase shall always be in accordance with the law. When undertaking a placement year, a placement year fee applies.

More information on fees

Delivery and assessment

This course is delivered via distance learning. You will access learning materials for general study, revision and assessment via our virtual learning environment, Blackboard. This platform allows you to access a comprehensive range of study materials, scientific journals, e-journals, databases and much more.

Method of delivery	Learning hours
Large group activity	20 hours
Independent activity	140 hours
Formative assessment activity	40 hours
Total	200 hours

Assessment
The assessment for this standalone module comprises two components:

Multiple choice questions (10%): 10 multiple choice questions following each of the 10 lectures, with an estimated total time of two hours.

Coursework (90%): Three case records with reflection and references.

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Career prospects

Our range of continuing professional development modules offers you the opportunity to enhance your knowledge and skills in order to develop your career, it is also our ethos to equip you with the skills and knowledge to make a real difference in your field.
They have been designed to allow you to develop specialist knowledge in advanced optometric topics. Clinical application and content may allow eye care professionals to widen and specialise their mode of practice.