Can I have Laser Eye Surgery if I have Macular Degeneration?
Macular degeneration is a visual condition that affects millions of people worldwide. In fact, it is the leading cause of sight loss in the UK, with an estimated 600,000 people affected.
The condition is often associated with ageing (age-related macular degeneration), however, it is a genetic condition that can affect people of all ages. The most common type of macular degeneration, which involves the thinning of the retina, is known as “early” or “dry” macular degeneration.
The second type is “exudative” or “wet” macular degeneration which occurs when normal blood vessels begin to grow underneath the retina. Both types of the condition are typically associated with a person’s ability to distinguish fine details, both up close and at a distance – more specifically in their central vision.
As a result, many people with age-related macular degeneration (AMD) may be able to see a general object but struggle to make out the details within it; for example, making out the numbers on a clock or recognising a person’s face. This can often lead to difficulties in carrying out everyday tasks and social interactions.
Due to the disruptive nature of the condition, many patients may be left wondering if they can have Laser Eye Surgery if they have AMD. Moreover, can Laser Eye Surgery be an effective treatment option for macular degeneration? As one of the most advanced vision correction procedures available, we often need to discuss these queries in further detail.
Laser Eye Surgery and Macular Degeneration
In the video above, Mr Carp explains more about what to expect from Laser Eye Surgery if you have macular degeneration.
First and foremost, the good news is that having macular degeneration won’t necessarily make you ineligible for Laser Eye Surgery. However, it is important to note that Laser Eye Surgery does not explicitly treat AMD. That is to say, the effects of Laser Eye Surgery on AMD-related visual impairments are limited.
As expert Laser Eye Surgeon, Mr Carp, explains in the video above, macular degeneration affects the retina – in particular, the central retinal area known as the macula.
Macular Degeneration occurs when small deposits form in this area, causing damage to the retinal photoreceptor cells (the cells absorb light once it has been directed into the eye).
So, while patients with macular degeneration may still be suitable for Laser Eye Surgery, the procedure can only focus vision to a similar point as that achieved with glasses or contact lenses. That is, Laser Eye Surgery will not give you more vision focusing power than glasses can achieve on their own.
As Laser Eye Surgery can now help people with many visual conditions and impairments, this can seem a bit of a blow to hear. However, Laser Eye Surgery should not be ruled out just yet, as although AMD is out of its reach, it can still improve your life in many other ways.
If you have any other questions about macular degeneration or are wondering if you may be suitable for Laser Eye Surgery, why not have a chat with one of our friendly clinic coordinators today? Alternatively, Book a Consultation today.
View Comments (13)
Hi, I am a 61 yr old woman with macular degeneration and I also have Sjogren's Syndrome. Would I be a candidate for laser eye surgery?? I would love to be able to leave off the glasses.
Hi Ronna,
Although we have previously treated patients with Sjogren’s syndrome, it depends on the severity of your symptoms as to whether you would be suitable. Sjogren’s syndrome is an autoimmune condition therefore we need to know the status of the condition- so we would need various tests and a possible referral to an inflammatory specialist may be required.
If you wish to discuss further, please call us on 020 7224 1005.
Kind Regards,
London Vision Clinic
I had cataract surgery and after my right eye in certain
light has a blur. I had good distance vision in my right eye before surgery. I wanted Laser surgery to bring back my distance and hopefully take away this blur. My Macular
degeneration is medium and dry. At present I have 20/20 vision is what they are telling me. Small print I still need glasses.
Question: Did my Laser I had 14 yrs. ago for reading have
anything to do with getting the macular. I also smoked for many years, but my Mother also had Macular Degeneration. I do not understand why in the last couple years with eye exams no Dr. said anything about having
the Macular until I had cateract surgery and asked for Laser? It just did not develop in the last year.
Hi Sharon,
Macular degeneration is not connected with laser surgery or cataract surgery. Smoking and family history are risk factors for macular degeneration.
Best wishes,
London Vision Clinic
Hello..I have macula degeneration due to a car accident.I am having avastin eye injection.my question is can I still have laser eye surgery.I also have astigmatism and wear glasses.
Hi Nathalie,
If you have Macular Degeneration it is possible to have Laser Eye Surgery. We are also able to treat astigmatism.
We recommend calling to speak with our team on 020 7224 1005 to find out more information for your eyes on 020 7224 1005.
Kind Regards,
London Vision Clinic
My father suffers from a dry macular degeneration .Just would like to know if can be candidate to laser surgery and after all it will help his vision.
Thanks
Hi Fernando,
Macular Degeneration is not a contraindication to Laser Eye Surgery so this alone shouldn't make him unsuitable. He will, of course, need to speak to a Patient Care Coordinator to determine other initial screening factors before attending an initial consultation where many texts are carried out.
We hope this helps.
Kind Regards,
London Vision Clinic
In 2014 I had three Lucentis injections for wet macular degeneration. The following year things had stabilised and I was discharged. Now in 2020 I am wondering if I can have laser treatment to avoid wearing glasses.
The last prescription I could find is below
R +2.25 -0.25 35.0 +2.25
L +2.25 -0.25 75.0 +2.25
Hi Adrianne,
If you have macular degeneration and damaged vision due to this, you might still be suitable for laser eye surgery correction. You would need to come for a full screening appointment to determine this. It is worth noting that the treatment could only achieve vision you are able to attain through wearing glasses. It would not treat/improve any issues caused by macular degeneration.
If you want to enquire, please call our team on 020 7724 1005.
Kind Regards,
London Vision Clinic
I have moderate ARM,cataracts and astigmatism. After cataract surgery will lazar surgery to correct astigmatism be beneficial?
Dear Eddie,
If you have Age-Related Macular Degeneration, it is possible to have Laser Eye Surgery although this does not specifically treat the effects of AMD on your vision. It would only address the prescription you have (astigmatism). We would need to fully assess your eyes to determine your suitability for surgery before advising if this will be an option.
Kind Regards,
London Vision Clinic
I am about to have surgery in a week for macular degeneration a . A buldge causes a to a curve in straight horizontal lines . Is it necessary to have this surgery?