Some patients seeking laser vision correction are told they have thin corneas and may not be suitable candidates for LASIK.

Fortunately, alternative vision correction options are available.

At The Eye Clinic, Dr Cheryl Lee evaluates patients with thin corneas to determine whether procedures such as EVO Implantable Contact Lens (ICL) surgery may be suitable.

Why Corneal Thickness Matters

LASIK reshapes the cornea by removing corneal tissue. Think of the cornea like kueh lapis or millefeuille. For every degree you have, a little of the cornea needs to be removed. So the higher the myopia, the more of the cornea needs to be removed. Most patients do not have a thin cornea to start off with. It is after the laser surgery that your cornea is rendered thin.

Why Does this matter?

Because the cornea would have lost its integrity as it is now thinner than what you were born with and hence the cornea bulges out again and the prescription returns. It is not because of your bad eye habits. The myopia (length of your eye ball ) has not changed. It is the cornea that has changed shape because it has weakened after Lasik. This is called corneal regression.

Careful corneal assessment is therefore essential before any refractive surgery.

Alternatives to LASIK for Thin Corneas

Depending on the patient’s eyes and prescription, alternatives may include:

• EVO Implantable Contact Lens surgery

• other non-corneal refractive procedures

EVO ICL is often an important option because the procedure preserves the cornea.

Advantages of EVO ICL for Thin Corneas

Potential advantages include:

• preservation of corneal tissue

• reversibility

• suitability for higher myopia

• reduced risk of dry eye symptoms compared to corneal laser procedures

Personalised Eye Assessment

Every patient’s eyes are unique.

A detailed eye examination helps determine the safest and most appropriate vision correction option.

FAQ

Can I still have vision correction if I have thin corneas?

Yes. Some patients unsuitable for LASIK may still be candidates for EVO ICL surgery.

Is EVO ICL safer for thin corneas?

EVO ICL preserves corneal tissue and may therefore be an important option for selected patients.

Does EVO ICL cause dry eyes?

Because the cornea is not reshaped, dry eye symptoms may be reduced compared to laser procedures.

What are the risks of Lasik on thin corneas ?

1) Return of myopia (corneal regression)

2) Dry eyes (corneal nerves within the cornea are removed )

3) Residual myopia (limited myopia that can be corrected )

Is it worth having Lasik, PRK or Smile for thin corneas?

NO. Why take the risks when there is a scientifically proven option for thin corneas.