Eye health is one of the most important factors that directly affect an individual’s quality of life. Many people who are forced to wear glasses or contact lenses due to visual defects aim to get rid of this dependency through laser eye surgery. However, laser eye surgery is not suitable for every patient. At this point, the laser eligibility test comes into play.
The laser eligibility test is a comprehensive evaluation conducted to determine whether the patient’s eye structure and general health condition are suitable for laser surgery. Op. Dr. Diclehan emphasizes that this test is the most critical step in the preoperative process because the correct selection of candidates directly affects the success of the operation.
Ensuring Safety
The main goal of laser surgery is to permanently correct the patient’s vision. However, safety comes first. The laser eligibility test identifies potential risks in advance and ensures the beginning of a safe treatment process.
The same laser method is not applied to every patient. Corneal structure, eye prescription, age, and expectations are determining factors in the selection of the method. The test serves as a guide to select the most appropriate technique for the patient.
To prevent eye numbers from changing again after laser surgery, it is essential to choose the right candidate. The test is performed to ensure long-term success.
Stability of Eye Prescription
One of the most important criteria for laser surgery is that the eye prescription has remained stable for at least one year. In cases of continuously changing prescriptions, laser treatment may be ineffective. Op. Dr. Diclehan particularly emphasizes this issue in young patients.
Corneal thickness is of vital importance for laser surgery. Since a small amount of tissue is removed from the cornea during the procedure, the layer must have sufficient thickness. Laser surgery is risky for thin corneas.
The shape and regularity of the corneal surface play a decisive role in the success of laser surgery. Diseases such as keratoconus are obstacles to laser surgery. Therefore, corneal mapping must always be performed.
High eye pressure (glaucoma) can be a risk factor for laser surgery. For this reason, intraocular pressure is always measured during the test.
If there are problems such as tears, thinning, or degeneration in the retina, these must be treated first. Op. Dr. Diclehan states that retinal examination before laser surgery is of vital importance.
In people with dry eye syndrome, postoperative complaints may increase. Therefore, the amount and quality of tears are also evaluated.
Age
Laser surgery is not recommended for individuals under the age of 18 because their eye prescription has not yet stabilized. After the age of 40, different evaluations are made due to presbyopia.
Diseases such as diabetes, rheumatic disorders, or conditions affecting the immune system may pose risks for surgery.
Laser surgery is not performed during pregnancy and breastfeeding, as hormonal changes can affect the eye prescription.
Initial Examination
When the patient arrives at the clinic, a detailed medical history is first taken. Medications used, chronic diseases, and vision complaints are evaluated.
Corneal thickness, topography, eye pressure, and tear tests are performed. These measurements provide the basic data necessary for surgical safety.
Op. Dr. Diclehan shares all findings with the patient and explains in detail whether the operation is suitable. For patients who are not suitable, alternative treatment options are offered.
Prevents Incorrect Patient Selection
If laser surgery is performed on an unsuitable patient, the outcome may be unsuccessful. The test prevents this risk.
It ensures that the patient begins the process with realistic expectations before the surgery, which increases satisfaction.
Op. Dr. Diclehan emphasizes that the laser eligibility test is evaluated not only through devices but also through the doctor’s experience. Devices provide numerical data, but interpreting these results requires expertise.
Patients Found Suitable
If the test results are favorable, the surgical method to be applied is planned. The most appropriate option is selected among methods such as LASIK, PRK, No Touch, or SMILE.
Laser surgery is not performed on patients with weak corneal structures, very high prescriptions, or risky general health conditions. These individuals may be advised to undergo phakic lens implantation, intracorneal ring placement, or other treatment methods.
How Long Does the Test Take?
It is usually completed within 30–60 minutes.
No, it is completely painless. Only device-based measurements are performed.
In some cases, yes, but usually the doctor reviews the results first and then schedules the surgery for another day.
Op. Dr. Diclehan repeatedly emphasizes that individuals considering laser surgery must first undergo a detailed eligibility test. Patients should be patient during this process, ask questions clearly, and follow the doctor’s instructions carefully.
He also notes that the test is not only important for determining laser suitability but also for the overall assessment of eye health, as other eye diseases can also be detected during the test.
Laser eye surgery is an effective method to permanently correct visual defects. However, not every patient is suitable for this operation. The eligibility test is the most crucial step in determining the success of the surgery.
Op. Dr. Diclehan states that the laser eligibility test is indispensable for ensuring patient safety, satisfaction, and long-term success. When the right patient is selected, laser surgery offers a life-changing solution for individuals who wish to be free from glasses and lenses.