Table 1.

Commonly used 3D printing technologies in ophthalmology applications and their characteristics.

Technology	Printing process	Typical layer thickness (µm)	Dimensional accuracy	Materials	Pros	Cons
SLA	Vat polymerization	25–100	±0.15% to ±0.5%	Photopolymer resin	• Accuracy • High resolution resulting in smooth surface finish	• Slow printing speed • Post processing required to remove support structures • Handling and storage of chemicals
DLP	Vat polymerization	25–100	±0.15% to ±0.5%	Photopolymer resin	• Quicker higher printing speed than SLA due to area curing	• Post processing required to remove support structures • Handling and storage of chemicals
FFF	Material extrusion	50–400	±0.5%	Thermoplastic filaments or granules	• Strong prints • Low-cost printer • Low material cost	• Slow printing speed • Lower accuracy • Requires support structure for overhang features less than 45°
SLS	Power bed fusion	100	±0.3%	Thermoplastic powder	• Strong prints • No support structures needed • Wide range of materials available	• Skilled operator required • Rough surface finish • Laborious process in terms of powder cleaning and recycling

DLP, digital light processing; FFF, fused filament fabrication; SLA, stereolithography; SLS, selective laser sintering.