“LASIK eye surgery is safe for diabetics” – myth or fact?
Diabetes is a chronic condition where your body is unable to produce an adequate amount of insulin or is unable to properly use it, leading to a spike in blood sugar levels.
According to the International Diabetes Federation, approximately 89.8 million adults in India have diabetes (as of 2024). That’s over 10% of the adult population (India) recorded in 2024. This is why an increasing number of people who want to permanently get rid of their specs are diabetic.
Studies claim that it is safe for diabetics to undergo specs removal surgery, as long as their condition is sufficiently under control (with persistently normal blood sugar levels) and does not have any ocular manifestations.
In this blog, we are going to tell you everything you can do to ensure you fit the eligibility criteria to undergo vision correction surgery as a diabetic.
Blood Sugar Levels
Normal levels of blood sugar just a few days before surgery are not enough. Your doctor will want to assess your blood glucose levels for at least 2-3 months. Your condition is best evaluated through a test known as HbA1c.
If the patient’s HbA1c levels are more than 7, the surgery poses more risks than potential benefits. Additionally, a letter of clearance from your diabetologist may also be required before you undergo LASIK. If you plan to get specs removal surgery, you are advised to get your blood sugar levels under control well in advance. Only controlled diabetes for 3 or more months will give you normal HbA1c results – clearing you for LASIK.
Complications of Diabetes
If you are experiencing any systemic complications of the chronic disease, such as peripheral neuropathy or nephropathy, LASIK may not be suitable for you.
Eye Problems
Patients with diabetes are more prone to eye conditions such as diabetic retinopathy, diabetic macular edema (DME), cataracts, and glaucoma. In some mild form of diabetic retinopathy, you may qualify to undergo LASIK, but in more severe forms, LASIK is not advised.
Stability of Eye Power
If your specs number is constantly changing due to fluctuating blood sugar levels, your surgeon will ask you to wait until it becomes stable and remains the same for at least 6 months to 1 year. Unstable blood sugar levels can lead to changes in prescription. This is why your surgeon cannot assure long-term visual stability after LASIK.
Having said that, it is important to note that many people with diabetes successfully undergo LASIK across the globe. Under the expert care of a highly skilled and experienced refractive surgeon, the procedure is safe and effective. All you need to do is ensure you keep your diabetes under constant check – strictly monitoring sugar levels, diet, and lifestyle habits.
Once your blood sugar levels are within the acceptable or normal limit, your doctor can proceed with a thorough evaluation of your eyes and advise the best suitable vision correction treatment.
👉 Gone are the days when diabetes was still considered a contraindication for LASIK. Also, as long as your diabetes remains under control, you will not face any complications after your surgery simply because you have diabetes. If you are free from serious conditions like diabetic retinopathy and your sugar levels are normal – you may very well be eligible for LASIK!
A series of detailed eye tests is conducted to assess your general eligibility for the surgery. Following a clean bill of health, you can undergo the surgery your doctor deems fit for your unique visual requirements. Once recovered (usually in 1-2 days), you can enjoy crystal clear vision, without glasses or contact lenses!
Sohana Hospital has a team of 16+ best eye specialists in Chandigarh who provide world-class eye care to patients every day. Expert refractive surgeons (and retina specialists, if need be) work to find the best possible vision correction treatment for you. With advanced diagnostic technologies, the latest treatment facilities, and strict hygiene protocols, LASIK has become safer than ever before!
Not just that, if it’s a tight budget that’s holding you back, you can choose from the multiple flexible payment options or easy no-cost EMI options available at Sohana Hospital.
