Am I Suitable for Laser Eye Surgery?

What is the optimum age?

The optimum age for laser surgery is above the age of 18. Younger patients should not have laser as there is a high chance that their eye measurements will change as they get older. For all patients we advise that their glasses measurements must have been stable for at least one year.

What about older patients?

Patients over the age of 45 years will need reading glasses after laser treatment. As we get older the natural lens of the eye loses its ability to flex and change focus from distance to near – an aging change called presbyopia. Laser treatment primarily corrects distance vision. Below the age of 45 patients can see both far and near after surgery but over the age of 45 patients will need reading glasses – usually standard off-the-shelf reading glasses.

Laser can be done in patients over the age of 60 years, however as we get older the lens changes and cataracts are very common after the age of 70 years. Patients over the age of 60 must be examined carefully to ensure that there are no signs of cataract as this can change the eye measurements.

How do I know if I am suitable?

When you are assessed for laser you will have detailed eye tests to ensure that your eyes are healthy and that the corneas are thick enough to have laser surgery. Patients considering laser should not be pregnant and diabetic patients need to have their sugar levels well controlled.

What is MONO-VISION?

If you are above the age of 43-45 years you will normally need reading glasses after laser surgery. However there is an option in selected patients to partly under-correct one eye to improve the near vision. This will result in reduced dependence on reading glasses. Your surgeons will discuss this option with you during your examination.