Have you ever been told that your eyes are in need of laser vision correction surgery, but you could not undergo the procedure because your corneas were too thin? Well now there is hope! In a recent study comparing the results of Lasik in patients with thin corneas versus thick corneas, researchers found that the two groups resulted in similar outcomes for safety, efficacy and stability.
According to the study published in the Journal of Cataract and Refractive Surgery, researchers reviewed the two groups of Lasik patients over long-term observation to understand the effects of laser vision correction surgery. The first group of 146 Lasik patients with thin corneas had an average central corneal thickness of less than 500 µm (microns) and the second group of 193 Lasik patients had regular corneal thickness.
Researchers found a significant difference in visual and refractive results between the three-month postoperative check-up and in the most recent check-up 4 years after vision correction surgery. However, there was no difference in topography outcomes and no one developed postoperative complications. Thus, research proves that patients with thick or thin corneas can be treated by Lasik for safe and effective long-term results.
Why Were Patients with Thin Corneas Turned Away?
Corneal ectasia is a progressive bulging of the cornea that can severely reduce uncorrected and best corrected visual acuity. In the past, researchers identified risk factors including forme fruste keratoconus, residual stromal bed less than 250 microns, high myopia and pre-corneal thickness less than 500 microns.
Now with research proving that a thin cornea does not necessarily indicate weakness, patients can benefit from laser vision correction by Lasik treatment if approved by the ophthalmologist.
Am I Candidate for Lasik?
Bladeless Lasik eye surgery is suitable for a variety of patients with three common refractive errors because they are experiencing problems with the corneal shape, how it bends and refracts light. The three common refractive errors are nearsightedness, farsightedness, and astigmatism.
Patients must be in good general health and desire a need for improved vision since their glasses or contact lenses are not as helpful. Though Lasik cannot completely eliminate the use of contacts or glasses, many patients benefit by freeing themselves from their previous prescriptions forever.
Lasik may show you the road to better vision, whether you have thick or thin corneas. A comprehensive eye exam and consultation will determine your condition and evaluate your eyes to ensure that your candidacy is valid. If you are farsighted, nearsighted or have astigmatism you may benefit from having Lasik eye surgery for lifelong results.