In the nearest future I am planning to undergo a laser vision correction procedure in your Clinic (my refractive error is -7.5 dioptres in the right eye, -6.5 in the left eye and astigmatism in both eyes). However, I have had hypothyroidism (Hashimoto’s disease) for many years and before the final decision I would like to find out whether such thyroid problems are not a contraindication to the surgery, and if not – whether it is required to provide any detailed medical test results prior to the procedure and whether there is an increased risk of failed surgery or complications resulting from thyroid problems (and if so – what complications I should expect). I am aware of the fact that right before the procedure it is necessary to have an ophthalmological examination qualifying for laser vision correction, but in the first place I would just like to know whether my disease does not completely exclude me from the surgery. I would appreciate if you could answer my questions.

Your refractive error is possible to correct as long as you are not disqualified from the surgery during the preliminary examination. Hypothyroidism (Hashimoto’s disease) is not a contraindication to such a procedure, but it is necessary to provide a medical certificate from an endocrinologist attesting to the degree of the disease, stabilisation of hormone levels and lack of contraindications to the laser vision correction surgery. In patients with thyroid diseases the postsurgical healing process and the convalescence period may last longer than in people with a healthy thyroid gland.