Eye health is one of the most important factors that directly affects quality of life. Refractive errors such as myopia, hyperopia and astigmatism cause serious limitations in daily life. With the development of technology, laser eye surgeries have become one of the most effective methods for permanently solving these vision problems.
Op. Dr. Diclehan, with his long years of experience, emphasizes the importance of choosing the right timing and method according to each individual’s eye structure.
The Basis of Laser Technology
Laser surgery aims to correct refractive errors by reshaping the corneal layer of the eye. This allows light to focus more clearly on the retina and improves visual quality.
The main purpose of this treatment is to reduce or completely eliminate the need for glasses or contact lenses. Thanks to modern laser technologies, treatment duration has become shorter, success rates have increased, and side effects have been minimized.
Stabilization of Eye Prescription
One of the most critical criteria for laser surgery is the stabilization of the eye prescription. Generally, eye numbers begin to stabilize after the age of eighteen. However, in some individuals this process may continue until the early twenties.
Since changes in the eye structure continue during adolescence, undergoing laser surgery at very early ages is not recommended.
As age progresses, not only myopia or astigmatism but also presbyopia, which is the loss of near vision, may appear. Therefore, the most suitable age range for surgery differs from person to person.
Ages 18 to 24
This range is generally considered early. If the prescription has not stabilized, laser surgery may not be suitable. In some patients the eye numbers may still change at this stage.
According to most experts, this is the ideal age range for laser surgery. During this period, the prescription is stable and presbyopia has not yet begun.
Op. Dr. Diclehan emphasizes that the highest success rate for laser surgeries is achieved in this age group.
After the age of forty, near vision problems known as presbyopia begin. Laser surgery is still possible in this group but the choice of method may be different. For example, special techniques such as PresbyLASIK can be preferred.
Before surgery, a detailed eye examination is performed. Corneal thickness, eye pressure, retinal health and tear amount are measured.
The prescription must have been stable for at least one year. Otherwise, the results after surgery may not be permanent.
Conditions such as diabetes, immune system diseases or pregnancy may require postponing the surgery.
Suitable mostly for patients with thin corneas. It can be applied at younger ages but the recovery period is longer.
One of the most frequently used methods. Provides high success between the ages of 20 and 40.
Can be considered a combination of PRK and LASIK. Generally preferred in younger patients.
Since it is performed without contact with the eye, it is a safe option for patients with thin corneas and young individuals.
Provides personalized treatment. Can be applied at any age group but especially gives effective results between the ages of 25 and 40.
One of the most advanced methods in recent years. It is ideal for athletes or active young adults who are at high risk of trauma.
Op. Dr. Diclehan particularly recommends this method for active individuals between the ages of 20 and 35.
Developed for patients over forty. Provides correction for both near and far vision simultaneously.
Advantages of Surgery at a Young Age
It provides many years of life without glasses.
It increases visual comfort.
It brings freedom in education and career life.
The prescription may not yet be completely stable.
Due to presbyopia at older ages, another intervention may be needed.
The prescription is completely stable.
The highest success rate is achieved in this period.
The recovery process is fast.
The risk of presbyopia is approaching.
Some patients may experience more significant dry eyes.
With methods such as PresbyLASIK, both near and far vision can be corrected.
The comfort of life without glasses can be regained.
The risk of cataracts increases.
The recovery period may be longer.
Can Laser Surgery Be Performed at the Age of 18?
Yes, but the prescription must be stable. Otherwise, the numbers may increase again in the following years.
Yes, the results of surgery are generally very successful in this age group.
Yes, it can be performed. However, problems such as presbyopia or cataract are also taken into consideration and the method is chosen accordingly.
Corneal Thickness
Corneal thickness must be sufficient for surgery. Not every method may be suitable for those with thin corneas.
People without sufficient tear production may experience increased dryness after surgery.
Diseases such as retinal tears, glaucoma or keratoconus may be an obstacle for surgery.
The most suitable age range for laser eye surgery is generally between 25 and 40. During this period, the prescription is stable and the best visual quality is achieved. However, age alone is not the only criterion. Each patient’s eye structure, lifestyle and expectations must be evaluated and a personalized plan should be made.
Op. Dr. Diclehan emphasizes the importance of detailed examination as well as the age factor in laser eye surgeries and determines the most suitable method for each patient. With the development of laser technologies, there are now different options suitable for every age group.