If you're considering laser eye surgery in Canberra, you may be wondering if your eyes are suitable for the procedure. Understanding the characteristics of the ideal eyes for laser eye surgery is crucial in making an informed decision. This article will explore the key factors our team considers during your free assessment to determine whether your eyes are suitable for this life-changing procedure.
01/02/2024
1. Stable Refractive Error:
The first and foremost consideration for laser eye surgery is a stable refractive error. This refers to the consistency of your vision prescription over time. The ideal candidates for laser eye surgery have had a stable prescription for at least one year. Fluctuations in your prescription can impact the accuracy of the procedure and long-term outcomes. Generally, your eyes will fluctuate until the age of 21 and during pregnancy and breastfeeding.
2. Mild to Moderate Refractive Errors:
Laser eye surgery is highly effective in treating mild to moderate refractive errors, including myopia (nearsightedness), hyperopia (farsightedness), and astigmatism. The procedure reshapes the cornea to correct these refractive errors and provide clear vision without the need for glasses or contact lenses. However, severe cases of refractive errors may require alternative treatment options. A comprehensive assessment by our team will determine if your refractive error falls within the suitable range for laser eye surgery.
3. Healthy Corneas:
The health and thickness of your corneas play a significant role in determining your eligibility for laser eye surgery. The cornea is the transparent front surface of the eye that is reshaped during the procedure. A sufficient corneal thickness ensures that the required tissue can be safely removed without compromising the structural integrity of the eye. Additionally, the absence of corneal diseases or abnormalities is essential for a successful outcome. Our team uses specialty machines to measure the thickness of your cornea to determine if your eyes are suitable for laser eye surgery.

4. Good Overall Eye Health:
Beyond corneal health, the overall health of your eyes is crucial in evaluating your eligibility for laser eye surgery. Conditions such as glaucoma, cataracts, or severe dry eye syndrome may affect the success of the procedure.
5. Realistic Expectations and Positive Attitude:
While physical factors are important, having realistic expectations and a positive attitude towards laser eye surgery is equally vital. Understanding the potential benefits, risks, and limitations of the procedure will help you make an informed decision. Engaging in open discussions with our team, including the doctors, can help address any concerns and ensure you have a realistic understanding of the procedure.
Determining your eligibility for laser eye surgery in Canberra requires a thorough assessment of various factors, including stable refractive error, suitable refractive error range, healthy corneas, good overall eye health, and realistic expectations. Our team explore all of these factors in your 30-45 minute free assessment. The assessment doesn’t require any eye drops or preparation, however, if you are a contact lens wearer, we recommend that you leave these out for at least 7 days prior to your assessment so your eyes return to their “normal” state.
Every individual is unique, and a personalised assessment is essential to determine the ideal eyes for laser eye surgery.
Take the first step towards visual freedom by scheduling a free consultation with a trusted eye laser clinic in Canberra today.