Yes, it’s possible to get LASIK surgery even if you have multiple sclerosis (MS).
However, certain factors related to MS and its effects on the body, particularly on the eyes and immune system, need to be carefully evaluated before proceeding with the procedure.
Vision problems are a common issue for individuals living with MS. This chronic neurological condition, which affects the central nervous system, can lead to a range of symptoms, including those that impact eyesight.
LASIK (Laser-Assisted in Situ Keratomileusis) is a popular surgery for correcting refractive errors (like myopia, hyperopia, or astigmatism), giving many people freedom from glasses or contact lenses. But for MS patients, the decision to go ahead with LASIK isn’t purely about correcting vision—it also involves assessing how MS could influence the surgery and the recovery process.
With that in mind, this blog explores everything you need to know about whether LASIK is a viable option for individuals with MS. We’ll cover the impact of MS on vision, the risks and considerations of undergoing LASIK with this condition, and how to work with an ophthalmologist to make the best decision for your eyes and overall health.
How Does MS Affect Vision?
To understand if LASIK is suitable for someone with MS, it’s vital to first know how MS can impact vision. MS is a disorder in which the immune system mistakenly attacks the protective sheath (myelin) covering nerve fibres in the brain and spinal cord. This autoimmunity disrupts communication between the brain and other parts of the body, including the eyes.
Here are some common ways MS can affect vision:
1. Optic Neuritis
MS often causes inflammation of the optic nerve, a condition known as optic neuritis. Symptoms commonly include blurred vision, eye pain (especially with movement), and temporary vision loss. Vision typically improves as inflammation subsides, but recurring episodes may result in long-term damage.
2. Double Vision (Diplopia)
MS can affect the muscles controlling eye movement, leading to double vision. For many, this condition fluctuates depending on disease activity.
3. Nystagmus
This condition causes involuntary, rapid eye movements that can blur vision and make focusing difficult.
4. General Visual Decline
Fatigue, disease progression, and medication side effects may exacerbate vision issues or make an individual more sensitive to light.
Since LASIK surgery reshapes the cornea to correct refractive vision errors, understanding how MS affects vision stability is essential. Fluctuating symptoms like the ones described above may temporarily impact an individual’s eyesight, which could complicate the results of LASIK.
Is LASIK Safe for Individuals with MS?
Safety and long-term success are primary concerns when considering LASIK for someone with MS. While LASIK itself is considered a safe and effective form of vision correction for most people, those with auto-immune conditions like MS require additional evaluation because their bodies respond differently to surgery.
Here are some key considerations to determine if LASIK is appropriate:
1. Vision Stability
LASIK is most successful on individuals with stable prescriptions—this means their vision hasn’t significantly changed for at least one year. MS might cause fluctuating vision over time, especially during flare-ups or active phases of the disease. If a person’s vision is unstable, the outcomes of LASIK may be compromised.
Tip: Work with your eye specialist to monitor your prescription over a sustained period before committing to LASIK.
2. Healing Capabilities
Autoimmune conditions like MS may impair the body’s ability to heal post-surgery. LASIK requires precise healing of the corneal flap to achieve clear vision. For MS patients with slowed tissue healing or heightened inflammation, this presents a potential risk for complications like infections or improper flap healing.
3. Medication Side Effects
Many people with MS take steroids or other immunosuppressive medications to manage their condition. These medications might interfere with the recovery period after LASIK, increasing susceptibility to infections or delaying the healing process. Additionally, dry eye syndrome—a common side effect of LASIK—may be exacerbated by MS and certain medications.
4. Dry Eyes
MS-related nerve damage can lead to reduced tear production, causing chronic dry eyes. Since LASIK can worsen dryness during the healing phase, individuals with MS who already struggle with this condition must exercise caution. However, there are preoperative treatments (such as punctal plugs) that some ophthalmologists use to manage dryness.
5. Flare-Ups and Relapses
Individuals experiencing an active MS flare-up, especially one affecting their vision, are typically not considered good candidates for LASIK. It’s essential to wait until the disease is in remission and symptoms have stabilised.
Verdict
LASIK is not categorically ruled out for MS patients, but most ophthalmologists approach each case cautiously. Full transparency about your medical history and MS symptoms, along with a thorough preoperative assessment, ensures the safest possible decision.
Steps to Take if You’re Considering LASIK with MS
If you’re living with MS and are interested in LASIK, here’s a step-by-step guide to help you make an informed decision:
1. Consult a Specialist
Start with a consultation with an experienced ophthalmologist or LASIK surgeon familiar with autoimmune conditions. They’ll assess your candidacy for surgery through a series of eye health evaluations, including corneal thickness and prescription stability.
2. Be Transparent About Your Medical History
Provide your doctor with detailed information about your MS, including:
- How long you’ve had the condition.
- Frequency and severity of flare-ups.
- Current medications and any side effects.
3. Monitor Vision Trends
If your prescription has been stable for over a year, you’re more likely to be a suitable candidate for LASIK. Keep your optometric records handy for your consultation.
4. Manage Dry Eyes
If you suffer from dry eye syndrome, you may need to address this issue before surgery. Use artificial tears, consider punctual plugs, or work with your doctor to identify other therapies.
5. Seek a Second Opinion
If one doctor expresses reservations about performing LASIK, consult another specialist to ensure you’ve explored all perspectives.
6. Consider Alternative Treatments
If LASIK isn’t suitable, explore alternatives like PRK (Photorefractive Keratectomy) or SMILE (Small Incision Lenticule Extraction). These procedures may have a slightly different risk profile and could be better suited for your situation.
7. Stay Patient
Maintain an open dialogue with your healthcare team. Your MS status may change over time, and advancements in medical technology could make LASIK (or other treatments) a more viable option in the future.
Frequently Asked Questions
- Can LASIK exacerbate MS symptoms?
There is no evidence that LASIK directly worsens MS symptoms. However, stress associated with surgery or recovery may temporarily heighten symptoms in some individuals.
- Are there alternative vision correction options if LASIK isn’t suitable?
Yes! Alternatives like PRK or even implantable contact lenses might be viable options depending on your specific eye health needs.
- Should I undergo LASIK during MS remission only?
Yes, doctors typically recommend only undergoing LASIK when MS is in remission, and symptoms are stable to minimise risks and improve outcomes.
- Does MS increase the chances of LASIK complications?
While complications are rare, a compromised immune system and reduced healing can pose risks. Talk to your doctor about methods to mitigate these concerns.
- Will LASIK eliminate the need for glasses completely?
LASIK reduces dependence on glasses but may not entirely eliminate their need, especially for reading glasses as you age.
The Bottom Line
While MS doesn’t automatically disqualify someone from undergoing LASIK, it does necessitate a more cautious approach. Factors like vision stability, healing ability, medication side effects, and flare-ups must all be carefully considered. Ultimately, the decision should involve a collaborative effort between you, your ophthalmologist, and your MS care team.
For those seeking lasting vision correction, LASIK might just be an opportunity to improve the overall quality of life. But if it’s determined that LASIK isn’t the best option for you, don’t lose heart—alternative treatments can help you achieve your sight goals.
Your eyes deserve the very best care. Consult a doctor to start your personalised LASIK evaluation today. Better vision is just a conversation away!
