Can I have Laser Eye Surgery if I have Macular Degeneration?

It is estimated that macular degeneration affects around 600,000 people in the UK alone and millions worldwide. As such, it is the leading cause of sight loss globally. But does having macular degeneration mean you are unsuitable for Laser Eye Surgery?

What is Macular Degeneration?

Also known as age-related macular degeneration (AMD) due to its association with ageing, macular degeneration is, in fact, a genetic condition that can affect people of all ages. There are several types of macular degeneration.

• The most common type is known as “early” or “dry” macular degeneration, which involves the thinning of the retina.
• The second type is known as “exudative” or “wet” macular degeneration. This form of the condition occurs when normal blood vessels begin to grow underneath the retina.

Both wet and dry macular degeneration are associated with the loss of ability to distinguish fine features. This affects both near and distance vision, particularly in the patient’s central vision. As a result, people with macular degeneration may be able to see a general object but struggle to make out details within it – for example, reading the numbers on a clock or recognising a person’s face. This can lead to significant difficulties in everyday life.

So, could Laser Eye Surgery help with Macular Degeneration? Or does this condition affect your suitability for treatment? 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, our expert Laser Eye Surgeon, Mr Carp explains more about what to expect from Laser Eye Surgery if you have macular degeneration.

The good news is that having macular degeneration won’t automatically make up unsuitable for Laser Eye Surgery. However, it is equally important to recognise that Laser Eye Surgery is not a treatment for AMD. While the treatment can still help to improve certain aspects of your vision, its effects on AMD-related visual impairments are limited.

As Mr Carp explains in the video above, macular degeneration affects the retina – in particular, the central retinal area known as the macula. It occurs when small deposits form in this area, causing damage to the retinal photoreceptor cells (the cells that absorb light).

Laser Eye Surgery is unable to prevent this damage or reverse its effects; however, it may still be considered as an option to treat other aspects of your vision. Still, the procedure can only focus vision to a similar point as can be 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.

Laser Eye Surgery is an effective treatment for a wide range of visual conditions and impairments. While AMD may be 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.