Am I Suitable for Laser Eye Surgery?
Have you ever contemplated the common question, “Is Laser Eye Surgery right for me?”
This is a query that often crosses the minds of individuals when they stand on the precipice of this life-changing decision.
Ultimately, your clinical suitability is contingent upon three key factors:
- Your unique blend of individual factors.
- The expertise of your surgical team.
- The calibre of available technology.
Simply, the more advanced the diagnostics and treatment capabilities at your chosen clinic, the greater the likelihood that you’re a suitable candidate. Customised laser eye treatment amplifies this even further.
Whether you’ve been deemed unsuitable for Laser Eye Surgery at another clinic, or you’re simply curious about its suitability for you, read on to gain a clearer understanding of whether Laser Eye Surgery aligns with your vision and lifestyle.
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Suitability Factors for Laser Eye Surgery
Numerous individual factors come into play when assessing your suitability for Laser Eye Surgery. Here’s how we evaluate some of them:
1) Stability of Your Current Prescription
We track the behaviour of your prescription throughout your lifetime, and customise your treatment accordingly.
2) Age (18 to Forever Young)
Laser Eye Surgery is typically suitable for individuals aged 18 and older. Whether you’re just stepping into adulthood or have a library of memories behind reading glasses, at AccuVision, our expert clinical team make it possible to achieve clear vision at all stages of life.
3) Degree of Optical Error
Whether you’re shortsighted (myopic), farsighted (hyperopic or presbyopic), or dealing with the complexities of astigmatism, fret not. We have nuanced solutions for the most challenging prescriptions, ensuring outstanding vision quality for all our patients.
4) Corneal Thickness
Thinner corneas shouldn’t dim your hopes of a glasses and contacts-free life. Even though a more nuanced approach may be necessary, our experienced clinicians are experts in advanced surface treatments like Trans-Epi, or other alternative corrections. With their skill and knowledge, exceptional vision remains well within reach.
5) Corneal Mapping Data
Through corneal topographical mapping, we take a deep dive into the unique shape and contours of your cornea. Using this 3D topographical map, our experienced team craft a treatment as unique as your eye itself. This customised approach guarantees our patients a level of clarity and precision far beyond what is achievable with standard laser eye treatments.
6) Medical History
Thorough checks for underlying eye conditions or general health issues are part of our comprehensive examination. This ensures we can tailor the most appropriate approach or alternative vision correction methods, all aimed at delivering AccuVision patients the best vision possible.
7) Occupational and Lifestyle Considerations
Certain occupations, like those with unique vision demands (like pilots and military personnel) or physically active roles (such as boxers or athletes), may have specific vision criteria. For these individuals, we may explore advanced surface treatments to help them unlock their full visual potential.
Ultimately, suitability for Laser Eye Surgery extends beyond just your eyes. Your personality, lifestyle, occupation, expectations and commitment to your vision all play a role in determining your eligibility.
Remember, while the internet is awash with misinformation and well-meaning opinions, expert clinical advice with in-depth analysis of your individual risks and benefits, is the only accurate way to guage suitability.
Who is Not Suitable for Laser Eye Surgery?
This list will help you understand what conditions may require special management — however, a comprehensive consultation is the only way to know whether you are suitable or not.
The following conditions may need to be treated differently:
1) Unstable or Rapidly Changing Prescriptions
If your prescription is continuously changing, we will identify its root cause and take steps to stabilise it, if the underlying conditions allow it.
2) Thin or Irregular Corneas
Thinner or irregularly shaped corneas may require advanced treatment methodologies, like trans-epi, or alternative vision correction methods discussed in detail in the following section of the page.
2) Certain Eye Diseases
Conditions like glaucoma or keratoconus require distinct treatment approaches. For instance, INTACS or CXL x T-CAT treatment for keratoconus, outlined in the next section.
3) Dry Eyes
Individuals with severe dry eye syndrome may need additional treatment and/or lifestyle changes before undergoing laser eye surgery. We will work with you to develop a customised strategy to get you on the quickest and most efficient path to clear vision.
4) Pregnant or Nursing Women
Laser Eye Surgery is not suitable for you if you are pregnant or breastfeeding..
6) Autoimmune Disorders Affecting the Eyes
Conditions that affect the immune system and the eyes need specialised care to prevent infection and inflammation that may impact the surgery’s success.
7) Medications Affecting Healing
If you are taking medications that affect wound healing or the immune response, your treatment may require additional steps which we will discuss with you in detail.
8) Certain Medical Conditions
Conditions like diabetes or immune disorders may impact your suitability for Laser Eye Surgery. These are listed in full below, and may need managing before you can have Laser Eye Surgery. Other vision correction alternatives will be discussed with you during consultation, if necessary.
Our experienced multi-disciplinary team manage complex cases. We ensure optimal visual outcomes through proper pre and post operative care, adapting your management to your unique needs. This extends to patients of all medical conditions and requirements, including:
Medical Conditions That May Need Adapted Management
- Diabetes
- Vascular Disorders
- Cardiac / Pacemaker
- High Blood Pressure
- Low Blood Pressure
- Fainting
- Hepatitis
- HIV/AIDS
- Mental Health Conditions
- MRSA
- CJD
- Rheumatoid Arthritis
- Epilepsy
- Lupus
- Hayfever
- Asthma / Breathing
- Any Collagen Disorder
- Sjogrens Syndrome
- Psoriasis
- Eczema
- Herpes / Cold Sore
- Pregnancy / Breast Feeding
- Growth Hormone Treatment
Whilst rare, if we find that Laser Eye Surgery isn’t the most suitable option for you, we will guide you toward alternative solutions and offer ongoing care.
Alternative Options for Those Not Suitable for Laser Eye Surgery
The irregularity of the corneal surface that develops with Keratoconus is what impacts quality of vision. In some cases we are able to use an excimer laser to reprofile the cornea prior to CXL. Advanced diagnostics allow us to very precisely map the topography of even very distorted corneas. This data is then transferred to the excimer laser and an ablation profile is created to normalise the asymmetry of the cornea.
In some cases the excimer laser can be further utilsed to correct refractive errors of the eye, thus leading to a significant improvement in the prescription.
Early diagnosis is the key here as unfortunately the longer the condition is left to worsen, the thinner one’s cornea becomes, the less scope there is for additional treatment options.
Corneal Ring Segment inserts or INTACs are another treatment option for patients suffering from Keratoconus. Very small curved clear plastic inserts are placed inside the cornea, helping to re-shape it. INTACs typically only partially correct the optical defect present so additional optical aids or surgery may be required to obtain a better correction.
The main disadvantage with Intacs are that they cannot prevent the cornea continuing to weaken and the patient may still require a corneal Graft in the future if the Keratoconus continues to progress.
RLE is a surgical procedure that involves replacing the eye’s natural lens with an artificial intraocular lens (IOL) to correct refractive errors.
It’s similar to cataract surgery and can be an excellent option for individuals with presbyopia or extreme hyperopia. RLE provides clear vision at various distances and reduces or eliminates the need for glasses.
IOL implantation may be the most appropriate solution for a minority of patients who may not be suitable candidates for laser eye surgery, often due to extreme refractive error or unusual corneal findings.
During this procedure, a clear artificial lens is inserted into the eye, typically replacing the eye’s natural lens. IOLs can correct a range of vision problems, including short sightedness, long sightedness, astigmatism, and even presbyopia.
Our experienced surgeons at Accuvision assess your unique needs to determine the most suitable IOL type, ensuring enhanced vision and improved quality of life.
Cataracts are a common age-related condition that can significantly impact vision. If you’re experiencing cataracts and laser eye surgery isn’t an option, cataract surgery provides a dual benefit:
Not only does it remove the clouded natural lens affected by the cataract, but it also replaces it with a clear artificial lens, effectively correcting your vision.
The procedure is safe and effective, allowing you to regain clear vision and enjoy daily activities with improved clarity.
Ortho-K is a non-surgical method of vision correction that involves wearing specially designed contact lenses overnight. These lenses gently reshape the cornea while you sleep, providing clear vision during the day without the need for glasses or daytime contacts. It’s a reversible option and can be ideal for those who want to be free of daytime corrective lenses.
ICL is an implantable lens used to correct refractive errors, primarily myopia (nearsightedness). Unlike traditional contact lenses, which sit on the eye’s surface, ICLs are surgically implanted within the eye, typically just behind the iris and in front of the natural lens.
ICLs work alongside the eye’s natural lens to focus light properly on the retina, providing clear vision. They are often used when LASIK or PRK may not be suitable, such as for individuals with high degrees of myopia.
Sometimes, simple lifestyle adjustments can enhance your vision and reduce the need for corrective lenses. These adjustments might include proper lighting, using magnifying devices for close-up tasks, and adopting good eye health practices to maintain overall visual comfort.
In some cases, a combination of the above options may be recommended to address unique vision challenges effectively. Our experienced team will work with you to create a personalised vision correction plan tailored to your needs and preferences.
Up until a few years ago, the only option for advanced cases of Keratoconus was corneal transplantation (Graft). During a transplant the disc of diseased corneal tissue is removed from the eye and it is replaced with a healthy donor cornea.
This operation could take one of two forms. A partial removal of the cornea called lamellar keratoplasty (DALK), or full removal called penetrating keratoplasty (PK).
Only the outer layer of the cornea is removed and replaced during lamellar keratoplasty. It has many advantages, including early suture removal and decreased risk of rejection. It is more time consuming and requires much greater technical ability from the treating surgeon.
The entire cornea is removed and then replaced during penetrating keratoplasty (PK). The new corneal tissue is attached to the unaffected part of the original cornea with very fine sutures. This surgery is usually performed under general anaesthesia. The whole procedure for one eye can take up to 90 minutes. Recovery from a corneal transplant can take up to a year or more. Rehabilitation usually involves spectacles and/or contact lenses, with on-going aftercare for many months following the operation.
Since the advent of Collagen Cross-Linking (CXL), the number of corneal transplantations performed due to Keratoconus has decreased significantly as so many more people are receiving Collagen Cross-Linking (CXL).
Can I have Laser Eye Surgery if I Have Astigmatism?
If you’re living with astigmatism, there’s excellent news — you’re likely a suitable candidate for Laser Eye Surgery for astigmatism at AccuVision.
Astigmatism arises when the cornea or lens of your eye has an irregular shape — more like a rugby ball rather than football (illustrated above). This irregularity can lead to distorted or blurred vision at any distance.
At AccuVision, we specialise in addressing various levels of astigmatism using our advanced AccuWave™ laser correction. This state-of-the-art system is designed to pinpoint and reshape the irregularities within your astigmatic cornea, ensuring exceptional vision, even for complex cases.
When you choose AccuVision, you benefit from thorough diagnostics, including WaveFront analysis and corneal topography, at no extra cost. Through expert interpretation of these detailed scans, our clinicians have removed blurriness and restored clear vision to thousands of astigmatic patients.
Astigmatism With Thinner Corneas
Trans-Epi is a groundbreaking Laser Eye Surgery technique that opens up new possibilities for individuals with higher levels of astigmatism and thinner corneas.
With this advanced procedure, AccuVision ensures that more patients can experience the benefits of Laser Eye Surgery, even in cases that might have been considered challenging with traditional methods.
Our experienced team is dedicated to guiding you through every step of this journey, prioritising your comfort and safety while delivering the best possible visual outcomes. So, if you have astigmatism and thinner corneas, rest assured that AccuVision has innovative solutions to address your unique needs and provide you with clear and sharp vision.
Can I have Laser Eye Surgery if I Am Long Sighted?
Long-sightedness, medically known as hyperopia or hypermetropia, is routinely corrected through Laser Eye Surgery at AccuVision.
This refractive error occurs when your eye focuses light behind the retina instead of on it, leading to blurry near vision.
AccuVision brings Laser Eye Surgery for long sightedness to the next generation with our topography-guided Laser Eye Surgery. We begin by conducting a comprehensive assessment that includes WaveFront analysis and corneal topography, allowing us to gain a comprehensive understanding of your eyes.
With this advanced diagnostic data, our expert surgeons craft a treatment plan that targets your specific long-sightedness with pinpoint accuracy. What’s more, these diagnostics are included with your procedure at no additional cost. This is exactly how our clinicians have successfully treated thousands of patients with long-sightedness, providing them with the gift of clear and comfortable vision.
Laser Eye Surgery for Presbyopia (Age-Related Long Sightedness)
If you’re grappling with the pesky blurriness of presbyopia that often accompanies age, blended vision correction could be your solution to beat the constant shuffle between reading glasses.
Blended vision correction is a visual duet, where one eye is slightly overcorrected while the other is undercorrected. Your brain cleverly fills in the rest.
To ensure this visual harmony suits you, your surgeon will fit you with contact lenses that mimic blended vision for a test run. If you find this adjustment comfortable and suitable, we can proceed with Laser Eye Surgery for presbyopia.
Our seasoned surgeons take it a step further, using advanced topography analysis to fine-tune your blended vision correction. This creates a seamless visual symphony that merges both long and short vision with precision.
Can I have Laser Eye Surgery if I Am Short Sighted?
Living with short-sightedness, also known as myopia, often means relying on glasses or contact lenses for clear vision 24 hours of the day. However, Laser Eye Surgery can be an excellent choice to break free from these visual aids for good.
At AccuVision, we offer advanced Laser Eye Surgery for short sightedness through AccuWave™ technology, designed to address short-sightedness with the highest level of precision and predictability.
Our approach begins with a thorough assessment, including WaveFront analysis and corneal topography, which provide a detailed map of your eye’s unique characteristics.
We tailor your treatment plan based on these diagnostic findings, ensuring that the laser reshapes your cornea to target your specific prescription flawlessly. What’s more, these advanced diagnostics are included as standard for every AccuVision patient.
Laser Eye Surgery for Thinner Corneas or Higher Prescriptions
Explore the cutting-edge Trans-Epi Laser Eye Surgery, introduced to the UK by AccuVision.
This pioneering technique opens doors for individuals coping with challenging cases of nearsightedness, thinner corneas, and higher prescriptions, delivering a level of visual clarity often unattainable through conventional approaches.
Refused Treatment at Another Clinic? Get a Second Opinion.
If you have been told elsewhere that you are not suitable for Laser Eye Surgery, then AccuVision may have good news for you.
We routinely see patients who have been refused surgery because of thin corneas, high prescriptions, age or certain medical conditions. Remember that every clinical team and technology platform have different capabilities, experience and areas of expertise – it is always best to speak with us to find out more.
Our experienced team has pioneered procedures in Laser Eye Surgery and customised revolutionary treatment plans, enabling us to safely and effectively help patients who have been refused treatment elsewhere due to limitations in technology and experience.
We may need to approach your care plan differently to allow for the above factors, but this doesn’t always mean you can’t experience the freedoms that Laser Eye Surgery can offer.
Patients that we progress to treatment have excellent outcomes with Laser Eye Surgery — you need only read their reviews for this to be apparent.
What Is My Next Step?
Invest your time in attending a consultation with our friendly and knowledgeable clinical team.
We are confident that your consultation with us will be the most detailed and rigorous eye examination you have ever experienced.
We use the most advanced diagnostic technologies to look at every aspect of your eyes and your vision and your consultation does not stop there.
We will discuss the results of your assessment with you in detail and help you decide whether Laser Eye Surgery is appropriate in your case. Here, you will receive plenty of opportunity to ask questions and understand more about your vision.
Our aim is to empower you with all the information you need to make a confident decision about treatment.
Frequently Asked Questions
While many individuals benefit from laser eye surgery, it’s not suitable for everyone. Those who may not be candidates include:
- Individuals under 18 years of age.
- People with unstable prescriptions.
- Those with certain eye diseases like glaucoma or keratoconus.
- Individuals with severe dry eye syndrome.
- Pregnant or nursing women.
- Those with thin or irregular corneas.
- People with autoimmune disorders affecting the eyes.
- Individuals with certain medical conditions such as diabetes or immune disorders.
- Those taking medications that affect wound healing or immune response.
Determining your suitability for laser eye treatment requires a comprehensive assessment by an experienced eye care professional. Factors considered include:
- Age (usually over 18 years)..
- Prescription stability.
- Eye health and any pre-existing conditions.
- Corneal thickness and shape.
- Overall health and medical history.
Consulting with an eye care specialist, such as those at Accuvision Eye Clinic, will provide you with personalised insights into your eligibility.
Yes, 1.25 diopters can often be treated with Laser Eye Surgery. However, the eligibility for Laser Eye Surgery depends on several factors beyond just the diopter measurement. The suitability for the procedure is determined through a comprehensive eye examination and evaluation by an experienced eye surgeon.
While 1.25 diopters may be within the treatable range, other factors such as corneal thickness, eye health, and the stability of your prescription are also considered. Our goal is to ensure that you achieve the best possible visual outcome with Laser Eye Surgery.
If you have questions about your specific prescription or are wondering if you are a suitable candidate for Laser Eye Surgery with 1.25 diopters, we encourage you to reach out to AccuVision for a consultation. Our experienced team will provide you with the guidance and information you need to make an informed decision about your eye care. Your vision and visual comfort are our top priorities.
Laser eye surgery is suitable for a wide range of vision conditions, including myopia (short sightedness), hyperopia (long sightedness), presbyopia (age-related long sightedness) and astigmatism.
Your eligibility will be assessed during a consultation, where we will consider factors like your prescription strength, corneal thickness, and overall eye health. Our expert team of ophthalmologists and optometrists will guide you through the best treatment for your unique needs.
Your Suitability For Laser Eye Surgery at AccuVision
In our seasoned hands, most individuals over the age of 18 who rely on spectacles or contact lenses find themselves as prime candidates for Laser Eye Surgery — even if they have been rejected for Laser Eye Surgery at other clinics.
Through decades of expertise in optics, our specialised team has provided outstanding vision to over 80,000 patients. Even individuals turned away from surgery elsewhere, with the most intricate eye prescriptions, consistently attain freedom from glasses and contact lenses at AccuVision.
Refused treatment at another consultation? Get a second opinion.
If you have been told elsewhere that you are not suitable for Laser Eye Surgery, then AccuVision may have good news for you.
We routinely see patients who have been refused surgery because of thin corneas, high prescriptions, age or some medical conditions. Remember that every team and technology platform have different capabilities, experience and areas of expertise – it is always best to speak with us to find out more.
Our experienced team has pioneered procedures and customised treatment plans, enabling us to safely and effectively help patients who have been refused treatment elsewhere due to limitations in technology and experience.
We may need to approach your care plan differently to allow for the above factors, but this doesn’t always mean you can’t experience the freedoms that Laser Eye Surgery can offer.
Those that we progress to treatment have excellent outcomes with Laser Eye Surgery, you need only read our patient stories for this to be apparent.
Consultation: A Priority, Not An Afterthought
Your journey towards Laser Eye Surgery doesn’t begin with assumptions, but rather with comprehensive consultation.
At AccuVision, during this crucial step, we delve deep into your individual eye health and history, as well as your lifestyle and expectations. This detailed assessment is pivotal in determining your suitability for Laser Eye Surgery.
Our experienced clinicians employ advanced diagnostic technologies like topography mapping, AccuWave and WaveFront, leaving no stone unturned when it comes to evaluating your eyes and vision. We consider both clinical and lifestyle factors to provide you with a holistic understanding of your eye health.
So, if you’re contemplating the question, “Am I suitable for laser eye surgery?”, don’t hesitate to reach out to us for a consultation. You have already taken the first step towards a clearer and brighter future.
