This page provides an overview of who laser eye surgery is suitable for, how the different procedures compare, and what to expect from the process. If you’re not sure where to start, this is a good place.
Which Procedure Is Right for Me?
Vision correction isn’t one-size-fits-all. Your age, prescription, eye anatomy, and lifestyle all influence which procedure will give you the best long-term result. Here’s a general guide:
Adults aged 18 to approximately 45
This age group is typically best suited to laser vision correction or ICL surgery, depending on the prescription and corneal health:
- LASIK — the most common laser procedure. Creates a thin flap, reshapes the cornea underneath. Fast recovery. Suitable for myopia, hyperopia, and astigmatism with adequate corneal thickness. Can be customised to address unique imperfections of the eye
- PRK (surface ablation) — reshapes the cornea without a flap. Preferred when the cornea is thinner. Best for myopia and astigmatism. Same customisation and visual result as LASIK, slower recovery
- SMILE Pro (LALEX) — flapless lenticule extraction. Minimally invasive with a tiny incision. Suitable for myopia, hyperopia and smaller degrees of astigmatism. Less tissue conserving than LASIK. May produce less dry eye than LASIK
- ICL (Implantable Collamer Lens) — a biocompatible lens implanted inside the eye, in front of the natural lens. Best for patients with higher prescriptions, thin corneas, or dry eyes that make laser less suitable. Permanent and also reversible
Adults aged approximately 40 to 55+
Presbyopia, the age-related loss of near focus, becomes a significant factor from the mid-40s. This is the point where reading glasses typically become necessary. For this age group:
- PRESBYOND Laser Blended Vision — a laser technique that creates a customised corneal profile to provide functional vision at distance, intermediate, and near. Can also correct any underlying distance refractive error. One of the most successful presbyopic laser treatments available
- ICL Viva — the newest generation ICL that also corrects presbyopia. Dr Chiu was the first surgeon in Australia and New Zealand to implant this lens. Suited for patients with higher prescriptions or those not suitable for laser
- Refractive lens exchange (RLE) — replaces the natural lens with an artificial IOL. Most appropriate for patients over 55 to 60, particularly those approaching cataract development. Corrects vision permanently and removes the need for future cataract surgery
Adults aged 60+
For patients over 60, the natural lens is almost certainly developing some degree of cataract change, even if vision hasn’t been significantly affected yet. At this stage, cataract surgery with a premium intraocular lens is typically the most appropriate path to vision correction. Modern cataract surgery corrects the cataract and the refractive error in a single procedure, with a range of lens options to reduce or eliminate dependence on glasses.
Your Vision Assessment
If you’re considering vision correction surgery, the first step is a comprehensive assessment. Allow approximately 2 hours for this appointment; certain workups, particularly for long-sighted patients or complex cases, may take longer.
The assessment is often performed by, our team of consulting optometrists and senior refractive orthoptists, and includes detailed measurements of your cornea, tear film, prescription stability, eye health, and anatomy. The results are reviewed by Dr Chiu, who will discuss your options and make a recommendation based on your individual assessment.
If you wear contact lenses, please stop wearing soft lenses for at 7 days before the assessment, and rigid or hard lenses for at least one week per year of use, to allow accurate measurements.
Where Is Surgery Performed?
Laser eye surgery (LASIK, PRK, SMILE Pro, PRESBYOND) is performed at our laser suite in the Sydney CBD. . ICL surgery, cataract surgery and refractive lens exchange are performed at Sydney Surgical Centre in Randwick and Somerset Day Surgery in Kingswood.
Book a Vision Correction Assessment
To book your assessment, call 1300 DR CHIU (1300 37 2448). You’ll need a referral from your GP or optometrist. If you’re unsure which procedure might be right for you, our team can help guide you to the right starting point.
Frequently Asked Questions
Am I too old for laser eye surgery?
Age isn’t a barrier in itself, but the right procedure changes with age. Laser and ICL are generally best for younger adults. PRESBYOND and ICL VIVA addresses presbyopia from the 40s. For patients over 50 to 60+, refractive lens exchange or cataract surgery with a premium lens may be more appropriate.
How do I know if I'm suitable?
The only way to know for certain is to have a comprehensive assessment. Dr Chiu’s team will evaluate your eyes in detail and recommend the best option, or explain why surgery may not be appropriate.
What if laser isn't suitable for me?
Not everyone is a candidate for laser. Depending on the reason, alternatives include ICL surgery, ICL Viva (for presbyopia), refractive lens exchange, or a combination of approaches. Dr Chiu will discuss all options with you.
How much does laser eye surgery cost?
Fees depend on the procedure and your individual requirements. Dr Chiu’s team will provide a clear breakdown of costs during your consultation or on enquiry. Call 1300 DR CHIU (1300 37 2448) for more information.