Some retinal conditions are compatible with laser eye surgery, while others make it unsuitable or offer little visual benefit.
When laser may still be an option
If the central retina is reasonably healthy, correcting the cornea can still improve focus even when there is stable retinal scarring.
- Old, inactive retinal tears or treated areas that no longer threaten detachment
- Stable macular changes where better focus could still help
- Full retinal examination and imaging before deciding
- Clear understanding that surgery cannot fix underlying retinal damage
- Plan for ongoing retinal monitoring after refractive treatment
When retinal disease makes surgery unsuitable
In active or advanced disease, refractive laser rarely improves quality of vision and could distract from more important retinal care.
- Active macular degeneration, diabetic macular oedema, or recent retinal vein occlusion
- High risk of retinal detachment not yet fully treated
- Central scarring that severely limits best‑corrected vision
- Need for frequent retinal injections or laser where clarity and stability are changing
- Recommendation to optimise retinal treatment and remain in glasses or contacts
