Can I Have Laser Eye Surgery if I Have Nystagmus (Involuntary Eye Movements)?
Nystagmus, which is sometimes referred to by the more telling name “dancing eyes”, is a condition characterised by involuntary eye movements.
There are two types of Nystagmus: physiological and pathological. Physiological refers to when the condition is related to factors such as congenital disorders or sleep deprivation. In contrast, pathological Nystagmus is linked to disease and illness.
Nystagmus may also co-exist with other conditions, such as vertigo – experiencing the sensation that objects around you are moving when they’re not.
In this way, it is generally considered an eye condition that exists as a side effect of another underlying condition. While Nystagmus is generally considered incurable, there are often some things that can be done to help manage or reduce associated symptoms.
The very nature of Nystagmus may be enough to make you assume that – if you have the condition – Laser Eye Surgery is completely off the cards. But this isn’t necessarily the case.
Not only is Nystagmus not a contraindication for Laser Eye Surgery, but there may also be a chance that such treatment could help to reduce the effects of the condition.
Nystagmus and Laser Eye Surgery
At the London Vision Clinic, we are no strangers to providing treatments for patients with nystagmus.
So, to answer the question, “Can you have Laser Eye Surgery if you have nystagmus?”: The simple answer is yes. However, it is important to note that Laser Eye Surgery does not treat the nystagmus. Rather, through its ability to correct refractive errors and improve visual acuity, it may be able to reduce its symptoms.
In the video above, Expert Laser Eye Surgeon Mr Glenn Carp explains how London Vision Clinic is able to provide both LASIK and PRK treatment for people with nystagmus.
Nystagmus is thought to be caused by a problem with how the eyes send messages to the brain or how the brain processes visual information. This may be the result of developmental deficiencies in childhood or due to damage that may have occurred later in life.
As a result of these effects on visual pathways, eye movements can become poorly controlled and, as people with the condition commonly report, worsen with psychological stress.
The RNIB (Royal National Institute of Blind People) has published a complete guide to Nystagmus which serves as a great resource for understanding the condition. There is also a selection of videos and insights into the experiences of people living Nystagmus. Such resources can be helpful for finding new ways to better manage and live with the condition.
If you would like to learn more about Nystagmus and Laser Eye Surgery, get in touch today. Want to know if you are suitable foe Laser Eye Surgery treatment? Book a Consultation to find out.
View Comments (14)
Hi i have genetic inherited nystagmus can i have laser eye surgery?
Whilst Laser eye surgery will not treat the nystagmus, it can be safely performed with the use of the sensitive eye tracking systems fitted to most modern lasers.
Hi i have nystagmus and ive had it since i was born. My sight is very bad. but i was wondering would i be able to have lazer eye surgery? I know it says it wont help the nystagmus but will it help me see better
Hi Samantha, yes, advanced laser tracking makes surgery possible even with nystagmus.
My eye specialist keeps telling me that my eye sight can not be cured. Its genetic and I've had it ever since I was born. Really weak. I have nystagmus too since birth and that's pretty bad as well. Also I've developed a squint in my eyes which the doctors say is because of very poor eye sight. I wanted to have laser surgery for both my vision and squint. Nystagmus doesn't bother me much but I've been told that the surgery is either not possible or too dangerous because I have nystagmus. Is it possibe to safely treat a nystagmic patient?
Hi Jia. Yes, we have advanced tracking within our laser which means that we are able to safely treat patients with nystagmus. As with any patient, we would need to assess you on an individual basis in order to take all factors into account, and confirm whether you are suitable. If you would like to schedule an appointment, please call 020 7224 1005 and one of our Patient Care Coordinators can arrange this.
I was told at Optical Express that my nystagmus was too fast for the machine to handle is that the case with yours? I really would like to get laser to remove the need for glasses or contact lenses
Hi Adam. At London Vision Clinic, we have advanced tracking within our laser, which enables us to safely treat patients with nystagmus. In order to make a full assessment of your suitability, we would need to see you in person to examine your eyes (as is the case with any patient). If you would be interested in scheduling an initial appointment, or would like more information, please call us on 020 7224 1005 and speak to our Patient Care Coordinators.
Hi, I am aware if your tracking LASIK technology ,
My name is Fred and I have nystagmus too..
It's is quite bad and shakes horizontally
I would like to get and estimate of a price and a appointment price. If you could please contact me
I wanted to drive but have been told it will never happen even with modern LASIK treatment.
Please. As much info as possible would be a great help
Please respond to this comment via email thank you '
Freddyboi@live.co.uk
Hi, I was wondering if LASIK surgery would be able to treat my nystagmus along with my astigmatism and what general price range would this type of procedure cost.
Hi I suffer from nastigmus. Has any one had the lazer treatment? And does it improve your eye sight?
Hi Robert,
Thank you for your comment. We have treated many patients that have Nystagmus, however, suitability is based on a case by case basis. Laser eye surgery itself does not cure or help the Nystagmus. Laser eye surgery can rid patients of the glasses or contact lenses that they use. Please let me know if you have any questions by calling the clinic on 0207 224 1005
Thanks,
London Vision Clinic
Hi.. i had nystagmus since a birth.. i had took lasic treatment on left eye but it quite work for good vision but i am unable to focus on alphabet on board even sitting on 3rd bench.. there should be any treatment which totally cure my nystagmus..??
Hi Tush,
Thank you for your comment. There is no treatment that could totally cure your nystagmus but there are options for you. I could recommend you see Veronica Ferguson. http://www.veronicaferguson.co.uk/
Thanks
London Vision Clinic