Laser eye surgery can sometimes be performed after retinal laser, provided the retina is now stable and well‑healed.
Favourable situations
Many patients have preventive or therapeutic retinal laser long before considering corneal refractive surgery.
- Completed retinal laser for tears or lattice with no new symptoms
- Stable vision and retinal appearance over follow‑up visits
- No active macular oedema or recent haemorrhage
- Full documentation from the retinal specialist clearing the eye for refractive surgery
- Understanding that retinal laser scars will not be altered by corneal treatment
When to delay or avoid corneal laser
If retinal disease is still active or needs further treatment, corneal surgery should wait.
- Recent or ongoing retinal laser for active disease
- Unresolved fluid, bleeding, or traction at the macula
- Planned vitrectomy or other retinal surgery
- Visual prognosis limited mainly by retinal damage rather than glasses strength
- Focus on retinal stability first, with possible refractive reassessment later
