Why Stable Vision Is Important Before Refractive Surgery

Refractive surgery (including LASIK, PRK, EVO+ ICL, and clear lens exchange) is designed to correct refractive errors such as nearsightedness, farsightedness, and astigmatism. However, before proceeding with any of these procedures, it is important that your vision prescription remains stable. 

At Schwartz Laser Eye Center, with locations in Scottsdale, Glendale, and Mesa, AZ, our ophthalmologists and optometrists perform comprehensive evaluations to determine whether vision stability has been achieved before scheduling surgical correction.

What Stable Vision Means

Stable vision refers to a consistent eyeglass or contact lens prescription over a period of six months to one year. Minor fluctuations in vision are common, but significant prescription changes can indicate that the eye’s refractive state is still shifting. Because refractive surgery is customized to correct the current prescription, performing the procedure before stability is reached could result in undercorrection or overcorrection if the eyes continue to change afterward.

Why Vision Stability Matters in Surgery Planning

Achieving stability before surgery helps ensure predictable and lasting results. The laser or lens-based procedure is programmed to match the unique curvature and refractive properties of your cornea or lens at the time of treatment. If those parameters change later, the correction will no longer be optimal. 

This is especially important for younger patients, whose eyes may continue to change slightly into their mid-twenties, and for individuals experiencing vision fluctuations due to systemic conditions or hormonal factors.

By confirming prescription stability, the ophthalmology team at Schwartz Laser Eye Center can determine whether the corneal shape, ocular surface, and refractive error measurements are appropriate for permanent correction. Establishing this baseline reduces the likelihood of future enhancement procedures and supports accurate long-term outcomes.

How Stability Is Determined

During a refractive surgery consultation, detailed diagnostic testing is performed to measure corneal topography, thickness, and overall refractive power. Your clinical history and past prescriptions are also reviewed to identify any changes over time. Consistency in these measurements confirms that the visual system is stable enough for surgery. If changes are observed, your eye doctor may recommend a period of observation before proceeding to ensure that your vision remains steady.

Comprehensive Evaluation at Schwartz Laser Eye Center

Refractive surgery is always preceded by a detailed assessment that considers ocular health, corneal structure, and prescription history. At Schwartz Laser Eye Center in Scottsdale, Glendale, and Mesa, AZ, each patient receives an individualized evaluation to confirm candidacy and timing for surgery. This careful approach allows the team to create a precise, customized surgical plan once stability has been verified.

For a comprehensive refractive surgery consultation, contact Schwartz Laser Eye Center at (480) 483-3937 to schedule an appointment at one of our three locations.