What does the choice of laser vision correction method depend on?

Laser vision correction is an effective way to free yourself from wearing glasses or contact lenses. Each procedure is preceded by a thorough preliminary qualifying examination, which includes a consultation with an ophthalmic surgeon and comprehensive diagnostic tests of the eyes.

Individual eye parameters

One of the most important factors influencing the choice of correction method is the anatomical structure of the eye, particularly the parameters of the cornea. During the qualifying examination, the following parameters are assessed, among others:

• Corneal thickness, shape and curvature – in the case of a thin or irregular cornea (e.g. due to scarring or keratoconus), not all laser vision correction methods can be applied. In such situations, surface techniques such as TransPRK or LASEK are more commonly chosen. Corneal parameters (thickness and shape) are also crucial when assessing the possibility of creating a corneal flap, which is required for Femto LASIK and SBK LASIK procedures.
• Type and degree of refractive error – in the case of high myopia (higher than -6 dioptres), the above-mentioned surface methods may carry a risk of temporary corneal haze occurring during the healing process. In the case of hyperopia, on the other hand, there is a higher likelihood of refractive regression and visual fluctuation. Therefore, for myopia greater than -6 dioptres and hyperopia above +3 dioptres, flap-based methods such as Femto LASIK and SBK LASIK are recommended.
• Eye health status – ocular diseases and degenerative changes may constitute either temporary or permanent contraindications. Temporary contraindications include, among others, Dry Eye Syndrome, cataract or keratoconus. Following appropriate treatment or surgery, these conditions do not necessarily exclude laser vision correction.
• Patient’s lifestyle and occupation – the lifestyle and nature of one’s work also play an important role in selecting the appropriate method. Physically active individuals or those professionally exposed to eye injuries (e.g. sportspeople or manual workers) are more often qualified for surface methods such as TransPRK or LASEK, which do not require the creation of a corneal flap.
  Patients who expect a rapid return to everyday activities are usually recommended SBK LASIK or Femto LASIK, as these methods are associated with a shorter recovery period and faster visual stabilisation.

General Health and Medications

Not every candidate will qualify for laser vision correction. Contraindications may be temporary or absolute. Absolute contraindications mainly involve chronic conditions that are not adequately treated or stabilised, as well as diseases leading to changes in the cornea, retina or optic nerve.

In the case of chronic diseases, it is necessary to provide a medical certificate containing details of the diagnosis, prescribed medications, dosage, and confirmation that the condition is stable.

Patient Expectations

Although medical indications are essential, individual patient expectations are also taken into account. These include the desired recovery time, acceptance of potential post-operative discomfort, and readiness for a shorter or longer convalescence period.

The choice of the most suitable laser vision correction method is never a random one – it is the result of detailed measurements performed using specialised diagnostic equipment, combined with a consultation with an ophthalmic surgeon during the qualification examination. The best method is the one tailored to the patient’s individual needs and anatomical features, ensuring optimal visual outcomes following the laser vision correction procedure. It is worth noting that regardless of the method used, the final result of the procedure is the same, as the laser itself operates in an identical way. The differences relate solely to how the cornea is prepared prior to laser treatment.

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