Must-Do Tests Before LASIK: The Complete Guide for Safe & Successful Vision Correction
LASIK is one of the most advanced and reliable procedures for freedom from spectacles. But before choosing the surgery, it is essential to undergo a complete pre-LASIK evaluation. These tests help determine whether your eyes are suitable and ensure the highest safety and accuracy during the procedure.
At Netram Eye Foundation, we follow an internationally standardized pre-LASIK protocol to give every patient the safest and most customized vision correction experience.
Why Pre-LASIK Tests Are Important
A thorough evaluation helps in:
- Confirming if you are an ideal candidate
- Detecting conditions like thin cornea or keratoconus
- Designing a personalized laser treatment plan
- Reducing chances of complications
- Ensuring long-term stability of results
Your LASIK success begins with understanding your eyes in detail.
Essential Tests Before LASIK
1. Refraction (Eye Power Check)
A detailed refraction is performed to measure your exact eye power.
This includes:
- Computerised refraction
- Manual retinoscopy
- Dilated refraction (if required)
This ensures your spectacle number is stable before undergoing LASIK.
2. Corneal Topography & Tomography
This is one of the most important tests before LASIK.
It provides:
- A 3D map of your cornea
- Detection of irregularities
- Screening for keratoconus (a condition where cornea is weak or bulging)
- Measurements of corneal curvature
Advanced machines like Pentacam/Corvis help analyse the biomechanical strength of your cornea.
3. Pachymetry (Corneal Thickness Test)
LASIK removes a small amount of corneal tissue.
Therefore, corneal thickness must be:
- Adequate
- Even
- Structurally healthy
If the cornea is too thin, alternatives like SmartSurfACE, PRK, Contoura, or ICL may be recommended.
4. Pupil Size Measurement
This helps determine the correct optical zone for LASIK, especially for night-time vision.
Large pupils may increase glare or halos if not evaluated properly.
5. Dry Eye Evaluation
Undiagnosed dry eye can affect LASIK outcomes and healing.
We assess:
- Tear film quality
- Tear breakup time
- Meibomian gland health
Pre-treatment is done if dryness is detected.
6. Retina & Internal Eye Examination
A complete retina evaluation ensures no underlying condition like:
- Retinal holes
- Weak spots
- Macular issues
These must be treated before LASIK to ensure long-term visual stability.
7. Intraocular Pressure (IOP) Check
This helps rule out glaucoma or pressure-related issues that may affect the procedure or recovery.
What to Expect During Your Pre-LASIK Evaluation
- Entire evaluation takes 60–90 minutes
- Some tests may require dilating drops
- You may experience temporary blurred vision for a few hours
- Test results help determine the safest and most advanced technique for you
Your Customised LASIK Plan at Netram Eye Foundation
Based on your test findings, our team suggests the best option for your eyes:
- 7D Touchless AI SmartSurfACE
- Contoura Vision
- Femto-LASIK
- PRK
- ICL (Implantable Collamer Lens) for thin corneas or high powers
Every eye is unique — and so is every treatment plan.
Conclusion
Pre-LASIK testing is the most important step in ensuring safe, precise, and long-lasting vision correction. At Netram Eye Foundation, we use the latest diagnostic technologies to understand your eyes completely and recommend the most suitable procedure.
If you’re considering LASIK, book your comprehensive vision evaluation today — your journey to spectacle-free vision begins with these essential tests.
