I am considering having the laser vision correction procedure. I wear -4.75 and -5.5 contact lenses and I am beginning to experience problems with close-up vision while reading. Is there a method of laser vision correction that can correct both defects? Can I undergo the procedure if I have well-controlled, stabilised diabetes?

After the age of 40, everyone experiences an age-related loss of the accommodation ability – presbyopia. It manifests itself through a difficulty seeing clearly at close distance. Presbyopia is a gradually progressing physiological process resulting from the ageing of the body.

To postpone the necessity to wear reading glasses, you can have the laser vision correction in the monovision mode. The effect of the correction can be simulated with the use of contact lenses and – if it is acceptable – the procedure may be performed. The effect of laser correction can be checked with contact lenses and if it is tolerated, the procedure can be performed.

Diabetes is a relative contraindication to the laser vision correction surgery. Blood test results will be necessary to prove that your glucose levels are stable and diabetes is under proper control. If you take any medications, you will also need to provide a medical certificate from your doctor specifying which medications are administered and in what dosage, as well as attesting to the fact that you remain under regular supervision of a specialist.

During the preliminary examination qualifying for the laser vision correction surgery, an ophthalmic surgeon will carefully verify whether there are no diabetes-related lesions in the retina, such as the ones that occur in retinopathy.