Laser eye surgery can sometimes be performed in people with amblyopia, but it does not cure the lazy eye itself.
When laser surgery may still be considered
If the amblyopic eye has useful vision, reshaping the cornea can reduce dependence on glasses or contact lenses. Suitability depends on corneal thickness, prescription, and overall eye health.
- Realistic goals focus on clearer unaided vision, not perfect sight
- The better-seeing eye is usually assessed especially carefully
- Laser treatment may help balance vision between eyes in mild cases
- Detailed scans and measurements are required before deciding
Important considerations and limitations
If vision never developed fully in childhood, surgery cannot restore what the brain did not learn to see. Careful counselling is essential before proceeding.
- Patients should understand that glasses may still be needed for some tasks
- Strabismus squint and binocular issues may remain unchanged
- In some cases, leaving the amblyopic eye untreated is safer
- A consultant ophthalmologist will advise on risk and benefit for each eye
