People with well-controlled diabetes and healthy eyes can sometimes have laser eye surgery, but diabetic eye changes may make it unsuitable.
When surgery may still be an option
The focus is on overall diabetic control and the presence or absence of retinopathy.
- Good blood sugar control and stable HbA1c
- No or only mild, stable diabetic retinopathy on retinal screening
- Healthy cornea and tear film, with no significant neuropathy‑related surface disease
- Realistic expectations that diabetes can still affect the eyes in future
- Clear plan for continued retinal screening after surgery
When diabetes makes laser less suitable
Active or advanced diabetic changes can limit benefit and increase risk.
- Significant macular oedema or proliferative retinopathy needing ongoing treatment
- Fluctuating refraction due to poor glycaemic control
- Reduced corneal sensitivity or poor healing capacity
- Systemic complications that make elective surgery higher risk
- Recommendation to focus on diabetic control and retinal therapy instead
