Before undergoing the procedure, it is required to first have a thorough and entirely painless complex eye examination. It takes about 2 to 2.5 hours and includes complete anamnesis as well as eye sight anamnesis, establishing the exact dioptre error (manifest refraction), detailed examination of the frontal segment of the eye, measuring of the intraocular pressure as well as the Schirmer test. Examination of the rear of the eye follows. To carry out a thorough examination of the rear of the eye it is essential to dilate the pupils through administering of special eye drops. As a result, we can also examine the periphery of the retina (this is important especially in patients with myopia) and measure the values of the so-called cycloplegic refraction (as these values may differ from the values obtained when the eye is not dilated). This process minimises the risk of miscalculation.
A part of the initial examination is also a check-up using the PENTACAM and iDESIGN devices. These provide readings essential for the surgeon to determine the suitability of the patient for laser eye surgery. Should it be necessary we can widen the scope of the initial examination to include other specialised tests such as examination of the visual field, the analysis of strabismus etc.
The surgeon determines whether laser eye surgery is an option and which type of procedure is most suitable based on the results of the initial examination. It is important to keep in mind that in some cases (for example when the cornea is not sufficiently thick or when the results of the tearing tests are poor) laser eye surgery man not be recommended at all or it may be recommended to wait until the error has stabilised
We always carry out the initial eye examination prior to laser eye surgery on a different day than the actual surgery. This is the only way to ensure optimal post-surgery results.
Important information
- Do not wear your contact lenses one week before your examination appointment. You may wear your glasses.
- Remove your make-up thoroughly.
- pTake with you a form of identification and your current glasses.
- A brief note from your general practitioner is beneficial (it is not compulsory; however, it may be of help to us).
- Do not drive yourself to your examination appointment, your eyesight may be out of focus for 2 to 3 hours after your examination.
- Should you so require, you may arrange for free of charge parking in our underground garage.
The examination is non-binding and is valid for the duration of 6 months. Besides the examination as such, it also includes a free of charge follow-up of the patient in case of the error or finding being unstable whereby it may be required to check-up the patient repeatedly prior to surgery.