The efficacy, predictability, safety, and short-term stability of excimer laser photorefractive keratectomy (PRK) and laser in situ keratomileusis (LASIK) for treatment of myopia and astigmatism were determined. The preoperative myopia ranged from -1.50 to -15.75 D and the astigmatism was less than 4.0 D. Of the 147 eyes, 73 and 74 underwent PRK and LASIK, respectively. Mean preoperative spherical equivalent refraction (SE) was -3.72 +/- 1.69 D in the PRK group and -7.66 +/- 2.30 D in the LASIK group. Mean postoperative SE at the last examination (3 to 6 months) was -0.13 +/- 0.82 D and -0.38 +/- 1.19 D in the PRK and LASIK groups, respectively. Eighty six percent in the PRK group and 77 per cent in the LASIK group achieved a SE within +/- 1.0 D and the refractions were stable between 1 month and 3-6 months. Uncorrected visual acuity of 20/40 or better was noted in 91 per cent in the PRK group and 97 per cent in the LASIK group. No eyes lost one or more lines of best spectacle-corrected visual acuity in both groups. PRK and LASIK appear to be effective, safe, predictable, and short-term stable in treating myopia and astigmatism. Longer follow-up studies will help evaluate the long-term stability of the procedure and possibility of later complications.