Copenhagen Eye Institute

Risks associated with wearing contact lenses

Copenhagen Eye Institute — Fri, 14 Aug 2026 08:11:36 +0000

Copenhagen Eye Institute

Risks associated with wearing contact lenses

Risks associated with wearing contact lenses

Quick answers

Are contact lenses dangerous?

Contact lenses are safe for most people when used correctly, but they can increase the risk of dry eyes, corneal damage and infections.

Can you sleep with your contact lenses?

As a general rule, you shouldn’t. Sleeping in contact lenses significantly increases the risk of serious corneal infections.

What is Acanthamoeba keratitis?

It is a rare but serious infection of the cornea, which is particularly associated with contact lens use. In severe cases, it can lead to permanent loss of vision.

Which contact lenses are the safest?

If contact lenses are the right choice, daily disposable lenses generally carry a lower risk of infection than reusable lenses.

Can contact lenses cause dry eyes?

Yes. Contact lenses can affect the tear film and increase evaporation, which can lead to dryness, irritation and reduced comfort.

What if I can no longer tolerate contact lenses?

Glasses are one option, and for suitable patients, vision-correcting treatments such as Aqua PRK, ICL or RLE may be other options.

At the Copenhagen Eye Institute, we view contact lenses for what they are: a truly useful visual aid for many people — and a medical device that carries real, well-documented risks when worn beyond the limits that your eyes can tolerate.

It usually starts with dry eyes

The most common reason why people stop wearing contact lenses is not infection — it is dryness. A lens rests directly on the tear film on the surface of the cornea and disrupts it after several hours of wear: it absorbs moisture, thins the tear film and increases evaporation. Dryness is consistently cited in the ophthalmological literature as the main reason why people stop wearing contact lenses. For most people, this manifests as a mild, temporary irritation towards the end of the day. But dryness is not just a matter of comfort — a compromised tear film and ocular surface also make the cornea more vulnerable to everything that follows: micro-scratches, breakdown of the epithelium and, ultimately, a gateway for microorganisms.

From irritation to infection: what the figures actually show

Wearing contact lenses is the single greatest risk factor for microbial keratitis — an infection of the cornea — that you can influence yourself. The risk is low in absolute terms, but it is not negligible, and it increases significantly depending on how the lenses are worn:

For soft disposable contact lenses worn correctly, the annual incidence of microbial keratitis is around 2 per 10,000 wearers.
For reusable soft contact lenses intended for daily wear (e.g. monthly lenses that are removed at night), the incidence roughly doubles.
When worn at night or for longer periods, the incidence rises to approximately 10–15 times that of daytime-only wear — mainly because sleeping with lenses in deprives the cornea of oxygen and prevents the tear exchange that normally washes away bacteria.

These are population averages from large case-control studies carried out in Europe and Australia. The microorganisms involved also vary depending on usage patterns: infections associated with daily use are typically caused by slower-growing staphylococci, whilst prolonged use or overnight use is disproportionately associated with Pseudomonas aeruginosa — a fast-growing pathogen that can potentially threaten eyesight.

Acanthamoeba keratitis: rare, but one of the most feared complications in our field

If there is one infection that keeps cornea specialists awake at night, it is Acanthamoeba keratitis (AK) — a parasitic infection that is difficult to diagnose, painful to an extent that is out of proportion to the clinical signs, and notoriously resistant to treatment. Acanthamoeba is by no means an exotic organism. It is found everywhere — in tap water, showers, swimming pools and soil — and most of us have antibodies against it. What makes wearing contact lenses dangerous is that a lens can trap the organism against the cornea, giving it time to invade a compromised epithelium. The figures give pause for thought regarding a condition that many patients have never even heard of:

Contact lens use accounts for up to 93 per cent of AK cases in the developed world (StatPearls / NCBI clinical review).
A nationwide Dutch surveillance study (2009–2015) showed that the incidence among soft contact lens wearers had risen to approximately 1 in 21,000 per year, and that the number of cases had tripled over the study period.
Reusable lenses carry approximately three to four times the risk of AK as disposable lenses (Carnt et al., case-control study, Ophthalmology), and the overall risk of AK is estimated to be around 20 times higher among contact lens wearers than in the general population.
In the same Dutch cohort, 39 per cent of patients experienced treatment failure – meaning significant, permanent vision loss and/or the need for a corneal transplant.

This is a rare condition. But ‘rare’ is not the same as ‘irrelevant’ when the consequence is an infection that can lead to blindness in an otherwise healthy, young eye — and the age group most frequently affected is 20–40 years, precisely the section of the population most likely to wear contact lenses purely for reasons of convenience.

When contact lenses end up on the operating table for the wrong reasons

Corneal transplantation (keratoplasty) is one of the most effective treatments in the entire field of ophthalmology — but it is a major operation that carries lifelong risks of graft rejection, wound dehiscence and the need for further surgery. In specific case series on Acanthamoeba keratitis, approximately 1 in 5 affected eyes ultimately required a penetrating keratoplasty. Comparative data on complications requiring corneal transplantation also suggest that visual outcomes following infection-related complications associated with contact lenses are, on average, significantly poorer than those following complications from laser surgery. We are not saying this to frighten our patients, but because it is the honest clinical picture: in a small but real number of cases, an optional corrective aid can trigger a chain of events that culminates in a corneal transplant — something that has essentially never occurred following a well-chosen refractive treatment.

Practical advice that we give to our own patients

Daily wear time: Most manufacturers’ instructions and the clinical consensus state that safe daily wear is within the range of 8–12 hours, although individual adjustments may be made by your optician or optometrist based on the lens material and the condition of your ocular surface. Lenses with lower oxygen permeability (older hydrogel lenses) should generally be limited to the lower end of this range.
Chronic dry eyes are a relative – and sometimes absolute – contraindication. If you already have a compromised tear film, wearing lenses increases both discomfort and the risk of infection. This should be assessed and must not simply be assumed to be absent.
Never sleep in your contact lenses unless they are specifically designed and prescribed for extended wear under close supervision.
If a contact lens is not designed for single use, you must never reuse it beyond the prescribed replacement period, and you must never top up or reuse lens solution.

Not all contact lenses pose the same risk

If contact lenses are the right choice for you, the type of lenses is crucial:

Soft, disposable daily wear contact lenses are the preferred choice if you wear contact lenses at all. As a fresh, sterile lens is used only once and then discarded, this prevents biofilm formation, contamination of the case and hygiene issues associated with reuse – factors which account for a large part of the increased risk seen with reusable lens types.
Newer silicone hydrogel materials allow approximately five times more oxygen to reach the cornea than older hydrogel lenses (Dk values now regularly exceed 100 barrers), which significantly reduces oxygen-deficiency-related complications such as corneal neovascularisation. This is a genuine and welcome advance. However, it is important to be precise about what it does and does not do: large-scale case-control data show that silicone hydrogel material in itself has not been shown to significantly reduce the overall risk of microbial keratitis compared with conventional soft lenses — better oxygen supply is not the same as eliminating the risk of infection, and some silicone hydrogel materials are more prone to lipid deposition and reduced wetting ability, which in itself can cause dryness and intolerance.

In short: no material, however advanced it may be, alters the fundamental fact that a contact lens is a foreign body worn against living, oxygen-dependent tissue for many hours a day.

What are the alternatives?

For patients who show signs of intolerance — recurrent redness, discomfort lasting longer than the first hour after insertion, dependence on moisturising drops or a previous history of corneal infiltrates — it is a good idea to have an honest discussion about alternatives before — rather than after — a serious complication arises:

Spectacles remain the lowest-risk option for vision correction and carry virtually none of the infection risks mentioned above.
Refractive surgery — including Aqua PRK, implantable Collamer lenses (ICL) and refractive lens exchange (RLE) — can, in suitably selected patients, permanently reduce or completely eliminate dependence on contact lenses, thereby removing the daily risk of infection and oxygen deprivation rather than merely managing it.

Every patient is different, and refractive surgery has its own selection criteria and risk profile, which should be assessed on a case-by-case basis by a cornea specialist or a specialist in refractive surgery. However, for patients who still need to wear contact lenses despite recurring signs of intolerance, it is entirely reasonable to request such a consultation. Our view: Contact lenses are a legitimate and valuable tool for many people, but wearing contact lenses is a medical decision involving real, measurable risks that deserve the same careful consideration as any other treatment. There is a wealth of scientific evidence suggesting that tolerance to contact lenses decreases with age. If your eyes are signalling that they are struggling, it is worth heeding that message and seeking a specialist’s assessment.

References

Dart JKG, Radford CF, Minassian D, Verma S, Stapleton F. Risk Factors for Microbial Keratitis with Contemporary Contact Lenses: A Case-Control Study. Ophthalmology. 2008;115:1647–1654.
Stapleton F, Keay L, Edwards K, et al. The Incidence of Contact Lens–Related Microbial Keratitis in Australia. Ophthalmology. 2008;115:1655–1662.
Carnt N, et al. Acanthamoeba Keratitis Risk Factors for Daily Disposable and Reusable Contact Lens Users: A Case-Control Study. Ophthalmology. Summarized in American Academy of Ophthalmology, EyeNet, “Risk of Acanthamoeba Keratitis in Contact Lens Users,” 2023.
Verani JR, et al. / van Meer B et al. The Rising Incidence of Acanthamoeba Keratitis: A 7-Year Nationwide Survey in the Netherlands. Acta Ophthalmologica / associated cornea literature, 2009–2015 cohort, PMC6731013.
Acanthamoeba Keratitis. StatPearls, NCBI Bookshelf, updated 2023.
Acanthamoeba Keratitis. EyeWiki, American Academy of Ophthalmology.
Evaluation of Acanthamoeba Keratitis Cases in a Tertiary Medical Care Centre Over 21 Years. PMC7806847.
Complications Leading to Keratoplasty Among Contact Lens Users and LASIK Patients: A 10-Year Cross-Sectional Analysis. PMC8380166.
Daily Disposable and Silicone Hydrogel Contact Lenses and Risk of Microbial Keratitis. American Academy of Ophthalmology, Editor’s Choice summary, 2013.
Young G. Why One in Four Contact Lens Wearers Doesn’t Achieve Optimum Vision: An Evaluation of Field Trial Data of Multifocal Contact Lenses. (Cited widely as the basis for dryness as the leading cause of contact lens discontinuation), 2011.
Manufacturer prescribing/fitting guidance (Alcon DAILIES TOTAL1, Johnson & Johnson 1-DAY ACUVUE TruEye) on maximum daily wearing schedules, accessed via published clinical trial protocols, ClinicalTrials.gov.

This article is intended to provide general patient information and is not a substitute for an individual assessment by an ophthalmologist. If you experience pain, redness, sensitivity to light or a sudden change in your vision whilst wearing contact lenses, you should remove them immediately and seek medical attention from an ophthalmologist straight away.

Book a free pre-examination for laser eye surgery

For those under 45.

BOOK AN APPOINTMENT

Book a free pre-examination for lens surgery

For those aged 45 and over.

BOOK AN APPOINTMENT

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Experience the solar eclipse safely

Copenhagen Eye Institute — Tue, 11 Aug 2026 12:04:11 +0000

Copenhagen Eye Institute

Experience the solar eclipse safely

Watch the solar eclipse safely: How to protect your eyes

Written by Javier Cabrerizo

Quick answers

What is a solar eclipse?

It occurs when the Moon moves between the Earth and the Sun and blocks out the sunlight. During a partial eclipse, the daylight is still so bright that you may inadvertently find yourself staring directly at the Sun.

Why is it dangerous?

The retina has no pain receptors. You can suffer permanent eye damage (solar retinopathy) without realising it is happening. Symptoms do not appear until 4–12 hours later.

Use ONLY certified goggles:

Ordinary sunglasses do not provide protection. Use certified solar eclipse glasses (ISO 12312-2) or a homemade pinhole projector.

Focus on children:

Keep a close eye on children’s glasses, or use a pinhole projector for the youngest children so that they do not look directly at the Sun.

When the moon passes in front of the sun, we are treated to one of the rarest spectacles in the sky. A solar eclipse is a marvellous natural phenomenon to witness – but it is also one of those days when we typically see more patients with retinal damage at the clinic. Here’s what you and your family need to know before you look up.

What exactly is a solar eclipse?

A solar eclipse occurs when the Moon moves between the Earth and the Sun and casts its shadow upon us. During a partial eclipse, the Moon covers only part of the Sun – the sky does not darken, and daylight remains largely as normal. This is, in fact, one of the dangers of a partial eclipse: because it still looks like a normal, clear day, many people underestimate how intense the remaining solar radiation is.

The eye is designed for light - not for staring directly at the Sun

Our eyes use sunlight all the time. The light hits the retina at the back of the eye, where it is converted into nerve signals that the brain interprets as images. It’s a marvellous mechanism – but it isn’t designed to withstand concentrated sunlight for more than a moment at a time. Normally, we automatically protect ourselves: we blink, squint and look away, because it’s uncomfortable to look directly at the Sun.

The problem with a solar eclipse is that the Moon blocks out enough of the Sun’s bright light to make the discomfort disappear – but the invisible radiation that damages the retina is still present. You may therefore end up staring at it for far longer than the eye can tolerate, without noticing anything at all.

What happens if you look directly at the Sun?

The condition is called solar retinopathy (or ‘eclipse blindness’) and occurs when the concentrated light energy literally burns the cells in the central part of the retina, the macula – the area we use for sharp vision and detail.

The really tricky thing about this injury is that the retina has no pain receptors. So there is no pain, no heat and no warning whilst the injury is occurring. Symptoms usually only appear 4–12 hours later – sometimes the following day.

Symptoms of sun damage to the eye

Blurred or impaired vision
A dark or grey spot in the centre of the field of vision (scotoma)
Distorted vision – straight lines appear bent or wavy
Altered colour perception
Increased sensitivity to light
In rare, serious cases: a hole in the macula, which may require surgery

Unfortunately, there is no treatment that can repair the damage. Some people experience a partial recovery within 3–6 months, but many are left with a permanent, small blind spot or distorted vision. If you experience visual disturbances following a solar eclipse, you should contact an ophthalmologist as soon as possible.

How to watch the eclipse safely

Use certified solar eclipse glasses (ISO 12312-2)

This is the easiest and safest method. The glasses must be marked with the ISO 12312-2 standard, which is specifically approved for direct observation of the Sun. Ordinary sunglasses – no matter how dark they are – do not provide sufficient protection and must never be used. Only buy glasses from well-known, reputable retailers; unfortunately, there are counterfeit ‘ISO-marked’ glasses in circulation that do not meet the standard. Always check the glasses for scratches or holes before using them – if there is any damage, they must be discarded.

Build a pinhole projector

A completely safe and child-friendly method: make a small hole in a piece of card and let the sunlight pass through the hole onto another piece of paper or card. You will see a small, projected image of the eclipsed sun – without ever looking directly at the sky.

Shade 14 welding goggles

Ordinary welding goggles are not safe – but a shade 14 filter is approved for solar observation if eclipse glasses are not available.

Special advice when travelling with children

Children’s curiosity is wonderful – but they rarely grasp the seriousness of the warning ‘don’t look directly at the Sun’, and they often take their glasses off for a split second ‘just to have a quick look’. Therefore:

Adults must always be present and ensure that the glasses are worn correctly at all times whilst the Sun is visible.
• Check that the glasses fit snugly and have no gaps through which light can enter from the sides.
• It’s a good idea to practise wearing the glasses well in advance of the eclipse, so that the child feels comfortable wearing them.
• For very young children, it’s best to choose the pinhole projector – it requires no self-discipline, as you never look directly at the sky.
Explain to your child why this is important, in language they can understand: “The sun’s rays are so strong that they can burn a small mark into the eye without it hurting straight away.”

Enjoy the eclipse - but take good care of your eyes

A solar eclipse is a unique opportunity to witness something that most of us only experience a few times in our lives. With the right precautions, there’s no need to worry – just plenty of reason to look forward to it. If you have any concerns about your eclipse glasses, your eyes after the eclipse, or if you’re experiencing any of the symptoms described above, you’re always welcome to contact us at the Copenhagen Eye Institute.

Sources:

American Academy of Ophthalmology (AAO) – Solar Eclipse Eye Safety
American Astronomical Society (AAS) – ISO 12312-2 Standard for Solar Viewers
NASA – Eclipse Safety Guidelines
Ophthalmology Times – Diagnosis and Management of Solar Retinopathy

This article has been produced for the Copenhagen Eye Institute and is not a substitute for personal medical advice.

The post Experience the solar eclipse safely appeared first on Copenhagen Eye Institute. and is written by Copenhagen Eye Institute

Stye

Copenhagen Eye Institute — Fri, 07 Aug 2026 07:09:13 +0000

Copenhagen Eye Institute

Stye

Stye Treatment: How to Get Rid of Eye Inflammation

A Brief Introduction to Styes

A stye appears as a small, red, and tender swelling on the eyelid
It can be located on the inner or outer side of the eyelid
Often resolves on its own without affecting vision
It is sometimes treated with antibiotic ointment if there is a risk of infection
Is not contagious and cannot always be prevented
Good eye hygiene and avoiding rubbing your eyes can help

What is Stye?

A stye, or hordeolum, is a localized inflammation of a hair follicle or sebaceous gland on the eyelid. It appears as a small, red, and tender swelling that can occur at the outer edge of the eyelashes (external stye) or on the inside of the eyelid (internal stye).

The condition is benign and does not usually affect vision, but it can be bothersome and tender to the touch. A stye occurs when the glands in the eyelid become blocked, preventing oils from flowing out freely. This can lead to irritation and local inflammation. In some cases, bacteria can worsen the condition and cause an infection, but styes are not contagious from person to person.

Although styes can be uncomfortable, they usually resolve on their own within 1–2 weeks. Treatment often involves good eye hygiene, warm compresses, and, if there is a risk of infection, antibiotic ointment.

What causes a stye?

A stye occurs when a sebaceous gland or hair follicle becomes blocked, preventing the oils from flowing out freely. This can lead to irritation and inflammation, and sometimes bacteria can make the condition worse.
Anyone can get a stye, but people with blepharitis or certain skin conditions may experience them more frequently.

Symptoms of a Stye

The most common symptoms are:

Redness and swelling of the eyelid
Tenderness or pain when touched
A small lump on the eyelid
If an infection occurs, the swelling may worsen, and pus may develop.

Diagnosis

A stye is usually diagnosed through a simple eye exam. The doctor examines the eyelid and assesses the swelling and symptoms. Further tests are rarely necessary. If there is a risk of infection, the doctor may prescribe antibiotic ointment or eye drops. In rare cases, an ophthalmologist may lance the stye to drain the pus.

Treatment

Most styes go away on their own. There are some steps you can take to relieve the discomfort:

Good Eye and Hand Hygiene
Avoid rubbing your eyes
Apply a warm compress to relieve discomfort

Progression and Recurrence

A stye usually disappears within 1–2 weeks. Some people may experience styes repeatedly, but the treatment and outlook remain the same each time.

When to Contact a Doctor

Contact a doctor if:

The swelling becomes very painful
Pus or a severe infection develops
The stye doesn’t go away even after a long time
You often get styes

Early assessment ensures the best treatment and minimizes discomfort.

STAPHILOCOCCUS INFECTION TREATMENT

Schedule a consultation or learn more about stye removal.

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Why it is important to choose an eye doctor for your vision correction

Copenhagen Eye Institute — Mon, 03 Aug 2026 10:50:04 +0000

Copenhagen Eye Institute

Why it is important to choose an eye doctor for your vision correction

Why it is important to choose an eye doctor if you are considering laser eye surgery or lens surgery

Written by Javier Cabrerizo

Quick answers

Who should assess whether you are a suitable candidate for vision-correcting surgery?

An eye doctor/ophthalmologist with experience in refractive surgery should assess whether laser eye surgery, lens replacement (RLE) or another treatment is the best option. This assessment is based on a comprehensive analysis of the eye’s anatomy, visual impairment and individual needs.

What is the difference between an ophthalmologist and an optometrist?

An ophthalmologist is a doctor who has undergone specialist training in eye diseases and eye surgery. An optometrist is trained to examine eyesight, measure lens prescriptions and identify eye problems, but does not perform eye surgery.

Why is it important for the surgeon to carry out the preliminary examination?

When the same ophthalmologist is responsible for the initial examination, the operation and the follow-up appointments, this ensures a consistent assessment and course of treatment. This allows for personalised treatment options and a swift response should any questions or complications arise.

Which vision correction treatments are available?

Depending on the condition of the eye, treatment may include laser eye surgery, lens replacement (RLE), ICL lenses or other refractive solutions. The best treatment depends on the individual patient’s eyes and visual needs.

Can anyone have laser eye surgery?

No. Not everyone is a suitable candidate. A thorough eye examination by an ophthalmologist will determine whether laser treatment is the right option, or whether another form of vision correction would provide a better and safer result.

Why do patients choose Copenhagen Eye Institute?

At the Copenhagen Eye Institute, patients are assessed, operated on and monitored by the same ophthalmologist throughout their entire course of treatment. This ensures continuity, a high standard of care and a personalised assessment of the best vision-correcting treatment.

Choosing to have your eyesight corrected through either laser surgery or refractive lens exchange (RLE) is one of the most important medical decisions you will ever make. The outcome will affect how you see the world for the rest of your life. It deserves more than just good technology and a smooth booking process. It deserves a doctor.

At Copenhagen Eye Institute, we have some of the country’s most experienced optometrists, but every single patient who comes through our doors to have their vision corrected is assessed, treated and followed up by their surgeon. This is not something we promote as an added benefit. We regard it as the fundamental standard of responsible care.

This article explains why, and what this means for you in practice.

Not all consultations regarding vision correction are the same

In recent years, the landscape of vision correction has changed. Laser eye surgery and lens procedures have become more widely available, and with this increased availability has come a wider range of providers offering consultations, initial examinations and even post-operative follow-ups.

Given that the procedure under discussion is irreversible, and that both laser corneal surgery and lens replacement are permanent procedures, we believe that our patients deserve direct contact with their surgeon throughout the entire process.

The pre-operative assessment: This is where the right decision is made

The most important part of your journey towards vision correction is not the operation itself. It is the consultation that precedes it and the post-operative care.

A thorough pre-operative assessment for laser surgery or RLE is not simply a matter of measuring your prescription and checking your corneal thickness. It involves collating a large amount of clinical data – topographic maps, pachymetry, axial length, anterior chamber depth, tear film quality, pupillary dynamics, ocular surface health and more – and translating this into an assessment of which procedure is appropriate, which technology is best suited, and whether the surgery should be performed at all.

At Copenhagen Eye Institute, this assessment is carried out and interpreted by a leading surgeon with extensive surgical training and many years’ experience in refractive surgery. The clinical decisions made at this stage – what to treat, how to treat it, and when not to treat – require precisely this level of expertise.

The difference between a patient who is an excellent candidate for Aqua PRK and one who would be better off with RLE, an ICL implant or no surgery at all is not always clear from the raw measurements. This requires clinical assessment. It requires an ophthalmologist.

Get to know your surgeon before the day of your operation

There is a particular sense of reassurance that comes from meeting your surgeon before you go into the operating room.

At Copenhagen Eye Institute, the ophthalmologist who assesses you is the same specialist who will operate on you and look after you afterwards. You will not be sent back and forth between a consultation team and a surgical team. You will not be assessed by one person and treated by another. The clinical pathway is seamless, and this continuity has a direct impact on the quality of your treatment.

Your surgeon is familiar with your corneal topography. Your surgeon remembers the details of your examination. Your surgeon is the person you can call if anything feels different in the days following your operation.

This is important because refractive surgery is not a standardised procedure. Every cornea is different. Every patient’s visual needs and lifestyle are different. The ability to make personalised decisions – before, during and after surgery – depends on a depth of clinical knowledge that can only be built up through ongoing engagement with a patient.

What happens when something unexpected occurs?

The vast majority of vision correction procedures proceed without complications. Modern laser surgery and lens implantation, when performed on carefully selected patients by experienced surgeons, have a very low complication rate. But medicine is not about certainties – it is about probabilities, and there are exceptions. And we never downplay or trivialise a surgical procedure.

A patient may develop unexpected inflammation following lens implantation. Intraocular pressure may rise in the early post-operative period. A patient with a previously undiagnosed tendency towards corneal ectasia may require early intervention. The tear film may react in a way that necessitates a change in treatment.

In each of these scenarios, the question is not simply whether the problem can be identified — it is whether the person identifying it has the necessary training and authority to act on it immediately. An optometrist may detect that something is abnormal. An ophthalmologist can make a diagnosis, prescribe treatment and, if necessary, perform surgery.

When your follow-up care is managed by a doctor – one who is personally familiar with your surgical history and your eyes – there is no delay between recognition and response.

The full range of treatment options, assessed independently

One of the lesser-known benefits of being assessed by a surgeon who performs several types of vision correction procedures is clinical independence.

At Copenhagen Eye Institute, we offer laser surgery, refractive lens replacement, ICL implantation and add-on lenses. As we are not limited to a single procedure or a single technology, our recommendation to you is based solely on what is clinically best for your eyes – not on what is most readily available, most convenient or most commercially straightforward.

These are not simply algorithmic decisions. They are clinical judgements, made by someone who has the necessary training to weigh up all the variables and the integrity to recommend the solution that is right for you – even if it is not the one you originally asked for.

Continuity of care: From the first consultation to the final follow-up

At Copenhagen Eye Institute, the ophthalmologist-led care does not end when you leave the operating room. Your follow-up appointments – after one day, one week, one month and thereafter – take place within a clinical setting where your surgeon remains the clinician in charge throughout the entire process.

This means that the person reviewing your post-operative topography is the same person who assessed your pre-operative maps. The person assessing your refraction after one month is the same person who made the decision to operate. If your recovery takes an unexpected turn, the clinical response is immediate and well-considered.

We believe that this treatment model – from the initial assessment through to discharge – represents the standard that vision-correcting surgery deserves. It is the standard we apply to all patients at our department, without exception.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

What is the difference between an ophthalmologist and an optometrist?

An ophthalmologist is a doctor who has completed medical training and specialist training in eye diseases and eye surgery. An optometrist is a healthcare professional trained in primary eye care – measuring visual acuity and detecting eye diseases – but is not a doctor and cannot perform surgery or prescribe all types of medication independently.

Does it matter who is responsible for my aftercare following vision-correcting surgery?

Yes. Post-operative follow-up requires a clinical assessment of healing, pressure, inflammation and fracture. In the event of a complication, it is immediate access to a surgeon – not a referral process – that ensures your outcome.

What if I have previously been assessed by another doctor and told that I am not a suitable candidate for surgery?

We are happy to offer a second opinion. Our pre-operative assessment is comprehensive and independent, and in some cases it turns out that patients who have been turned down elsewhere are suitable candidates when assessed according to our full diagnostic protocol.

How do I book an initial consultation?

You can book a free initial assessment for laser surgery or lens replacement directly via our website. The consultation includes a full clinical assessment carried out by our ophthalmologist.

Book a free preliminary laser eye surgery consultation

For those under 45.

BOOK APPOINTMENT

Book a free preliminary lens surgery surgery consultation

For those over 45.

BOOK APPOINTMENT

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Stable vision before laser eye surgery

Copenhagen Eye Institute — Thu, 02 Jul 2026 07:19:52 +0000

Copenhagen Eye Institute

Stable vision before laser eye surgery

Stable vision before laser eye surgery

Quick answers

When is my vision stable enough for laser eye surgery?

Your prescription should not have changed by more than 0.50 diopters over a period of at least six months. Stability is assessed based on at least two vision measurements.

Why is stable vision important?

Laser treatment permanently corrects your current prescription. If your prescription continues to change after the operation, your vision may gradually become blurry again.

Can you have laser eye surgery if you are under 20 years old?

As a rule, no. Nearsightedness often continues to develop during the teenage years and into the early twenties. For that reason, it is usually recommended to wait until your vision has stabilised before undergoing surgery.

How long do I need to stop wearing contact lenses before a pre-examination?

Soft contact lenses should be avoided for at least 1 week, while hard (rigid) contact lenses should be avoided for at least 2 weeks before the examination.

Why do I need to take a break from contact lenses?

Contact lenses can temporarily change the shape of the cornea. A break ensures more accurate measurements and provides the best basis for planning the treatment.

Who is suitable for laser eye surgery?

People with stable vision, a healthy cornea, and a thorough pre-examination showing that the eyes are suitable for the treatment.

What happens during the pre-examination?

You will be examined by both an experienced clinical optometrist and a specialist ophthalmologist. Your vision, the shape of your cornea, and the overall health of your eyes are assessed before deciding on the most suitable treatment.

One of the most common questions we receive at Copenhagen Eye Institute is: “Can I have laser surgery now?” The answer often depends on one crucial factor: Is your prescription stable?

This is called refractive stability and is one of the most important prerequisites for achieving a long-lasting result with laser treatment.

Why stable vision is important

During laser surgery, the cornea is permanently reshaped to match your current prescription. If your prescription continues to change after surgery, the treatment will no longer match the eye’s needs, and vision may gradually become blurry again.

Therefore, we require that your prescription has not changed by more than 0.50 diopters over at least six months, documented through two separate vision measurements.

This threshold follows criteria used in international clinical studies on refractive surgery and is considered a fundamental requirement in global clinical guidelines.

Why we generally do not operate on people under 20

Nearsightedness often develops throughout the teenage years and may continue into the early twenties. Research shows that the eye can still be growing during this period, which may lead to further changes in vision.

For this reason, we generally do not offer laser surgery to people under the age of 20.

If you are in your early twenties, we assess your visual stability more carefully and may recommend a longer period of documented stability before planning surgery.

When do we use cycloplegic refraction?

In some cases, we measure your prescription after using cycloplegic eye drops, which temporarily relax the eye’s focusing muscles. This provides a more accurate measurement of your true refractive error without the eye’s natural focusing influence.

This examination is used, for example:

if there is a discrepancy between your measured prescription and your vision,
if we suspect hidden farsightedness,
or when maximum precision is required before surgery.

The drops take effect after about 20–30 minutes and cause blurred near vision for a few hours, but they provide valuable information for treatment planning.

Taking a break from contact lenses before your pre-examination

Contact lenses can affect the shape of the cornea while being worn. In some cases, the cornea may remain slightly altered for a period after lens removal – a phenomenon called corneal warpage.

If the cornea has not yet returned to its natural shape, measurements become less accurate, which may affect treatment planning.

Therefore, we ask you to stop wearing contact lenses before your examination:

Soft contact lenses (daily or monthly): at least 1 week
Hard (rigid/gas-permeable) contact lenses: at least 2 weeks

Your pre-examination at Copenhagen Eye Institute

Your pre-examination is always performed in person by a senior clinical optometrist and a specialist ophthalmologist with extensive surgical experience.

The surgeon who assesses your eligibility is also the one who performs the procedure and follows you throughout the entire treatment journey.

If you are interested in finding out whether you are suitable for a vision correction procedure, you can book a free, non-binding pre-examination via our website.

Under 45 years
Free pre-examination for laser eye surgery

Over 45 years
Free pre-examination for lens replacement

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

How do I know if my prescription is stable?

Compare at least two vision measurements taken at least six months apart. If the difference is no more than 0.50 diopters, it is a good sign that your prescription is stable. Your optician’s records are often the best starting point.

I am 19 years old – can I still have a pre-examination?

Yes. We are happy to offer an assessment and guidance. However, in most cases we recommend waiting until your vision has been stable for a longer period.

What if my cornea has not normalised after stopping contact lenses?

If we see signs of contact lens influence during your examination, we recommend that you continue without lenses for a period and return for new measurements before making a final decision.

Can a cycloplegic measurement change the surgical plan?

Yes. In people with strong focusing ability or hidden farsightedness, the cycloplegic measurement may show a different prescription than a standard eye test. In such cases, we use the most accurate measurement to plan your treatment.

Selected references (for further reading):

Vega-Estrada A, et al. Update on contraindications in laser corneal refractive surgery. Arch Soc Esp Oftalmol. 2022. — Identifies absence of refractive stability and age under 18 as absolute contraindications to corneal laser surgery.
WaveLight® EX500 FDA clinical trial (NCT04219891); Technolas® TENEO 317 FDA trial (NCT04111757). — Both define preoperative refractive stability as ≤0.50 D change in spherical equivalent between consecutive measurements.
Gwiazda J, et al. COMET Study Group. Myopia progression in children. Invest Ophthalmol Vis Sci. 2003. — Documents continued axial elongation through adolescence and into the early twenties in a subset of myopic patients.
Ng LT, Lee EM, Nguyen AL. Preoperative assessment of corneal and refractive stability in soft contact lens wearing photorefractive keratectomy patients. — Shows manifest refraction takes a mean of 10.7 ± 4 days to stabilise after soft lens removal.
Shehadeh-Mashor R, et al. Duration of contact lens removal before myopic refractive surgery. Eur J Ophthalmol. 2021;31(4):1695–1699. — Large retrospective study (20,000 eyes) examining outcomes after varying soft lens cessation periods prior to corneal refractive surgery.

Eye Laser

Read more about eye laser surgery. For you under 45.

Eye Laser

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Lens surgery

The post Stable vision before laser eye surgery appeared first on Copenhagen Eye Institute. and is written by Copenhagen Eye Institute

Aqua PRK vs. LASIK

Copenhagen Eye Institute — Wed, 17 Jun 2026 08:36:21 +0000

Copenhagen Eye Institute

Aqua PRK vs. LASIK

Aqua PRK vs. LASIK

Quick answers

What is the difference between Aqua PRK and LASIK?

In LASIK, a permanent flap is cut in the cornea. In Aqua PRK, no incision is made – the laser works directly on the surface of the cornea, and the cornea’s structure remains intact.

Who is Aqua PRK best suited for?

Aqua PRK is particularly well suited for patients with an active lifestyle, a tendency toward dry eyes, thinner corneas, or irregular corneal profiles.

Is Aqua PRK more painful than LASIK?

Both treatments are performed under numbing local anesthetic drops and are painless during the procedure itself. After Aqua PRK, mild discomfort may occur for a few days while the epithelium heals.

What is the healing time after Aqua PRK?

Visual clarity typically stabilizes within one to two weeks. With LASIK, recovery is faster – often 24 to 48 hours.

Can you have Aqua PRK if you are not suitable for LASIK?

Possibly. Patients who are not eligible for LASIK due to thinner corneas can in some cases be treated with Aqua PRK. This is determined through a dedicated examination with us.

Laser eye surgery has transformed the way we correct vision. For millions of people worldwide, it has meant the end of glasses and contact lenses – and with continuous advances in technology, it is safer, more precise, and more accessible than ever. But not all laser procedures are the same.

There are different techniques for laser vision correction, and although all of them are safe, there are differences that make some of them more suitable for certain patients than others.

At Copenhagen Eye Institute, we have made a deliberate choice: we offer Aqua PRK using the AQUARIUZ solid-state 210 nm laser. This article explains what that choice means for you, and why we believe Aqua PRK represents a fundamental step forward in corneal laser surgery.

What Is FS-LASIK - and Why Is It Considered a Mature Technology?

FS-LASIK (Laser-Assisted In Situ Keratomileusis) was developed in the early 2000s and has been performed globally for over two decades. The procedure involves two steps: first, a laser instrument (femtosecond laser) cuts a thin hinged flap in the surface of the cornea; then, an excimer laser reshapes the deeper corneal tissue underneath. The flap is then repositioned.

FS-LASIK has helped many patients achieve good visual outcomes, with minor pain and discomfort after surgery. This is made possible by creating a flap in the cornea that is lifted and repositioned after the laser ablation.

The use of a femtosecond cut to create the corneal flap is a permanent and irreversible change to the structure of the eye – and it carries implications that become increasingly important as our understanding of corneal biomechanics deepens.

The flap never fully heals. Once cut, the structural integrity of the cornea in that area is permanently altered. This is not a complication — it is simply how the procedure works. But for patients who participate in active or contact sports, or who have concerns about corneal stability or dry eyes, this is an important factor to consider.

What Is Aqua PRK?

Aqua PRK is a modern evolution of surface ablation, using the AQUARIUZ solid-state 210 nm laser – a next-generation system that overcomes one of the central limitations of traditional PRK and excimer lasers.

The Key Technological Difference: Water Transparency

Traditional ablation lasers operate at a wavelength that is partially absorbed by water molecules present on the corneal surface. Even a thin residual water film over the cornea can scatter or attenuate the beam, reducing the precision and uniformity of treatment.

The AQUARIUZ laser operates at 210 nm – a wavelength at which laser energy is not blocked by water. This means the beam transmits fully and uniformly through the natural tear and water film on the corneal surface, reaching the tissue with complete efficiency. The result is more consistent corneal remodelling, greater predictability of the treatment outcome, and improved precision across the entire treatment zone.

In practical terms: what the laser is instructed to do, it does — with a level of fidelity that the previous generation of lasers could not match.

No Cut. No Flap. No Irreversible Stromal Incision.

With Aqua PRK, there is no cut into the cornea.

In LASIK, the flap represents a deep, irreversible incision through the corneal stroma – the load-bearing layer of the eye. This incision permanently changes the biomechanical behaviour of the cornea, reducing its tensile strength in the flap zone. It also introduces a theoretical risk of flap displacement in the event of significant eye trauma, even years after surgery.

In Aqua PRK, the laser works on the anterior corneal surface after gentle epithelial removal. The stroma is shaped by the laser, but it is never cut. The architecture of the cornea remains structurally intact. There is no hinged flap, no interface, and no irreversible mechanical incision within the tissue.

Who is Aqua PRK best suited for?

Aqua PRK can be an excellent option for a wide range of patients seeking freedom from glasses. It is particularly advantageous in the following situations:

Patients with an active lifestyle

Contact sports, martial arts, water sports, cycling – any activity that carries a risk of impact to the eye makes the absence of a corneal flap a meaningful safety consideration. With Aqua PRK, there is no flap to displace, and the cornea retains its natural structural resilience once healing is complete.

Patients with a tendency to dry eye

Aqua PRK offers a path to laser vision correction that does not permanently alter the deep corneal architecture, and therefore minimises the risk of post-laser dry eye — a common source of discomfort following laser vision correction.

Patients with thinner corneas or borderline corneal thickness

For patients with naturally thinner corneas – or those whose topographic measurements place them at the lower end of the safe range – Aqua PRK removes the flap requirement entirely, expanding the pool of safely treatable candidates.

Patients with irregular corneas or sensitive corneal profiles

Because Aqua PRK does not depend on creating a uniform flap, it can be a better option for patients whose corneal surface geometry makes flap creation less predictable.

What About Recovery?

One of the trade-offs of PRK compared to FS-LASIK is recovery time. With FS-LASIK, visual recovery is typically rapid – many patients see clearly within 24 to 48 hours. With Aqua PRK, the epithelium must regenerate over the first few days, and visual clarity typically stabilises over a period of one to two weeks, with continued refinement over the following months.

We discuss recovery expectations in detail during the preoperative consultation and support all patients through the healing process with a dedicated follow-up protocol.

Aqua PRK at Copenhagen Eye Institute

Copenhagen Eye Institute is one of the pioneers worldwide equipped with the AQUARIUZ solid-state 210 nm laser platform. This is not simply a technical distinction – it represents a clinical commitment to offering our patients the most precise, evidence-informed corneal laser surgery available.

We believe that the structural preservation of the cornea, combined with the precision of the AQUARIUZ system, provides our patients with a safer long-term outcome – and we are prepared to explain exactly why at every consultation.

If you are considering laser vision correction and would like to understand whether Aqua PRK is right for you, we offer a free preliminary examination where we assess your corneal thickness, topography, refractive error, and overall ocular health.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Is Aqua PRK more painful than LASIK?

During both procedures, topical anaesthetic drops are used, so neither is painful. In the days following Aqua PRK, patients experience mild discomfort as the epithelium heals – this is manageable with appropriate medication and typically resolves within a few days.

How are the final visual results with Aqua PRK?

Good – and in many patients, excellent. The absence of a flap interface eliminates a source of potential optical irregularity, and the precision of the AQUARIUZ system ensures consistent corneal reshaping.

Read more about how long an eye laser surgery lasts.

Can I have Aqua PRK if I have been told I am not suitable for LASIK?

Some patients who have been declined for LASIK due to thinner corneas may still be suitable candidates for Aqua PRK. However, this is a serious clinical decision that requires a dedicated assessment by a cornea specialist at our clinic.

Selected references (for further reading):

Schmack I, et al. Cohesive tensile strength of human LASIK wounds with histologic, ultrastructural, and clinical correlations. Journal of Refractive Surgery. 2005;21(5):433–445. — Classic cadaver study showing LASIK wounds heal to only ~2.4% of normal corneal tensile strength even years post-op.
Jakobs FM, et al. The LASIK flap never fully heals: Long-term data on corneal tensile strength. – Multiple studies confirm the stromal interface remains a permanent structural weak point.

Eye Laser

Read more about eye laser surgery. For you under 45.

Eye Laser

Lens surgery

Read more about lens surgery. For you over 45.

Lens surgery

The post Aqua PRK vs. LASIK appeared first on Copenhagen Eye Institute. and is written by Copenhagen Eye Institute

Can you have eye surgery while pregnant?

Copenhagen Eye Institute — Mon, 04 May 2026 11:16:26 +0000

Copenhagen Eye Institute

Can you have eye surgery while pregnant?

Can you have eye surgery while pregnant? Get the answer here

Refractive surgery is most common between the second and fourth decades of life, which matches with the age when pregnancy and breastfeeding occur. This raises the question about the best timing between these very important decisions in life and refractive surgery to become free from glasses. It is important for us to help each patient to find the best option between those two events.

Why pregnancy and breastfeeding play a role when deciding the time of refractive surgery?

Prior to refractive surgery the refraction of the patient should be stable for at least 6 months before surgery. Stability is defined as the absence of a change greater than 0.5 diopters during the last 6 months.

There is extensive clinical evidence stating that refraction may change for a period of time during hormonal changes and therefore around 10-15% of women feel a slight worsening of vision during pregnancy and breastfeeding. The key issue is not the safety of refractive surgery itself, but the effect that hormonal changes have on the eye, particularly the cornea. Pregnancy, breastfeeding, and fertility treatments all involve significant fluctuations in hormones such as estrogen, progesterone, and prolactin. These changes tend to be more pronounced in the second and third trimesters and are usually temporary, resolving after delivery or after breastfeeding has ceased.

In almost all cases this change returns to normal after the hormonal levels stabilize again, however, the timeline for normalization can vary significantly between individuals.

The same principle applies, although less frequently discussed, to breastfeeding. Lactation is associated with elevated prolactin levels and continued hormonal influence on the body, including the eye. It is not uncommon for corneal parameters and refraction to remain slightly altered during this phase.

What is the international consensus of good practice regarding this topic

We do not offer refractive surgery in patients who are pregnant, undergoing fertility treatment or breastfeeding. In cases where the vision has not changed during this period, the patient can be a candidate for refractive surgery after the breastfeeding period (80-90% of women) however in the cases where there have been a changes in the vision during these processes, we advice patients to wait 6 months to ensure the stabilization of the refraction.

Refractive surgery and fertility treatments

Procedures such as ovarian stimulation in in vitro fertilization protocols involve rapid and sometimes high-amplitude hormonal changes. Although the ophthalmic literature specifically addressing fertility treatments is more limited than that on pregnancy, the underlying physiology is similar enough to raise the same concerns. And the best clinical practices are the same as with pregnancy and breastfeeding: we do not offer refractive surgery to women undergoing fertility treatment but there is no contraindication to perform refractive surgery before these treatments, allowing at least 4 weeks of time between the surgery and the start of the fertility treatment.

Medications after refractive surgery

Another aspect occasionally raised is medication exposure. We use topical antibiotics and corticosteroids used after refractive for a month. Although topical drops on the eye have shown minimal systemic absorption, we prefer to avoid elective procedures requiring medication during pregnancy or fertility treatment, and therefore we suggest that the surgery should take place at least 4 weeks before the patient becomes pregnant or would start fertility treatments.

Our team stays regularly updated about this topic and our surgeons are currently participating in developing safety guidelines of refractive surgery during pregnancy. If a patient has any further questions we will be happy to address them.

Selected references (for further reading):

López-Prats MJ et al. “Influence of pregnancy on refractive parameters and visual acuity.” J Cataract Refract Surg, 2012.
Zamorano-Martín F et al. “Refractive changes during pregnancy and postpartum.” J Cataract Refract Surg, 2021.
Efe YK et al. “Effects of pregnancy on corneal biomechanics and topography.” Current Eye Research, 2012.
Riss B et al. “Corneal sensitivity, tear function and ocular surface changes during pregnancy.” Ophthalmologica, 1981 (classic but still cited).
Naderan M et al. “Pregnancy and the eye.” International Ophthalmology Clinics, 2013.

Lens surgery

Eye Laser

Wegovy and Ozempic: What Does It Mean for Your Lens Surgery?

Copenhagen Eye Institute — Wed, 18 Feb 2026 09:07:45 +0000

Copenhagen Eye Institute

Wegovy and Ozempic: What Does It Mean for Your Lens Surgery?

Wegovy and Ozempic: What Does It Mean for Your Lens Surgery?

The use of weight-loss medication such as Wegovy and Ozempic (semaglutide) has increased dramatically in recent years. At the same time, at Copenhagen Eye Institute, we are receiving more and more questions from patients concerning the ocular side effects of these medications and their compatibility or not with certain eye operations.

These are entirely reasonable concerns. When considering eye surgery—whether it involves cataract operations or refractive lens exchanges—patients naturally want assurance that the treatment is safe, predictable, and based on the best available scientific evidence.

This article provides a comprehensive, clear, and up-to-date overview of the relationship between Wegovy/Ozempic, eye health, and eye surgery, so you can make an informed decision about your vision.

Do Wegovy and Ozempic Affect Vision?

Some patients report temporary visual changes when starting semaglutide treatment. This can be due to:

Changes in blood sugar levels, which can alter the shape of the eye’s natural lens and temporarily affect vision.
Fluid shifts in the body, which may slightly influence eye optics.
Potential progression of diabetic retinopathy in patients who already have this condition.

It is important to emphasize that most patients do not experience serious eye side effects from Wegovy or Ozempic. Nevertheless, monitoring eye health—especially in diabetic patients—is good clinical practice.

In some cases, semaglutide treatments have been linked to problems in the optic nerve. It is important to understand that this side effect, although potentially serious, is very rare, and in most cases it is not a reason to avoid its use.

Can You Have Lens Replacement While Taking Wegovy or Ozempic?

In most cases, yes—you can have lens replacement surgery while taking Wegovy or Ozempic. There is no general contraindication to eye surgery simply because a patient is using semaglutide.

However, certain factors should be carefully evaluated on an individual basis:

1. Blood Sugar Control and Metabolic Stability

For patients with diabetes, good blood sugar control is crucial before and after surgery. Large fluctuations in blood glucose levels can temporarily affect vision and, in some cases, influence healing after surgery. Therefore, we assess metabolic stability as part of the preoperative evaluation.

2. Retinal Health (Back of the Eye)

Some studies have suggested that patients with pre-existing diabetic retinopathy may experience changes in their retinal condition when starting semaglutide. This does not mean that Wegovy or Ozempic is unsafe—but it does mean that a thorough retinal examination is recommended before proceeding with lens replacement surgery.

3. Stability of Your Vision

Rapid weight loss can, in some individuals, cause small changes in refractive error (glasses prescription). For this reason, we may recommend ensuring that your vision has been relatively stable for a period before performing precise measurements for premium intraocular lenses.

Can You Get Multifocal Lenses While Taking Wegovy?

Yes—multifocal lenses are still a possible option for most patients on Wegovy or Ozempic. However, the decision requires a careful and detailed eye examination. The single most important point here is if diabetes mellitus has harmed the posterior part of the eye, a condition called diabetic retinopathy.

Multifocal, trifocal, and EDOF (Extended Depth of Focus) lenses demand high optical quality of the eye. However, some patients with mild or moderate diabetic retinopathy can be candidates to other types of surgical solutions that can aim for the highest possible level of spectacle independence. Typically through a monovision solution, where one eye is used for reading and the other eye is used for far distance

When a diabetic patients or non diabetic patient taking Wegovy approaches us with the interest in being free of spectacles we book a preoperative consultation where we address:

Any presence of diabetic retinopathy
The quality of your tear film and ocular surface
Signs of dry eye disease
The condition of your retina
The stability of your vision over time

If these factors are satisfactory, there is generally no reason to exclude multifocal lenses solely because you are taking Wegovy or Ozempic.

However, since many of the patients that take this drug have diabetes in different stages, it is important to know that diabetic retinopathy (harm of the retina due to diabetes) is an absolute contraindication for Multifocal trifocals and in most cases EDOF lenses in our practise.

Cataract Surgery, Lens Replacement, and GLP-1 Medication

Many patients taking Wegovy or Ozempic are also in the age group where cataracts (clouding of the natural lens) become more common.

The key message is:

If you have visually significant cataracts, you should not avoid surgery simply because you are taking semaglutide.

Modern cataract surgery with premium intraocular lenses can significantly improve both vision and quality of life. The most important factor is proper preoperative assessment and timing of surgery.

Should you have scheduled consultations with your eye doctor if you are taking Wegovy/Ozempic?

The use of this medication does not normally require periodic checks, but a diagnosis of diabetes mellitus does. However, patients taking Wegovy/Ozempic should be specially aware of the following symptoms.

Sudden blurred vision
New floaters or dark shadows in your vision
Flashes of light
Worsening of known diabetic retinopathy
Rapid changes in your glasses prescription

These symptoms may or may not be related to Wegovy or Ozempic, but they always need prompt evaluation by an eye specialist.

How We Approach Patients at Copenhagen Eye Institute

At Copenhagen Eye Institute, we combine:

State-of-the-art diagnostic technology
Individualized risk assessment
The latest scientific evidence on both eye surgery and systemic medication
Collaboration with your general practitioner or endocrinologist when needed

Our goal is not just to perform eye surgery—but to ensure the best possible long-term visual outcome tailored to your personal health situation.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

1. Do I need to stop Wegovy before eye surgery?

In almost all cases, no. However, this is assessed individually based on your medical history and the type of surgery planned.

2. Does Wegovy increase the risk of complications in lens replacement?

No, there is no clinical evidence stating so. The main concern is in patients with poorly controlled diabetes or pre-existing retinal disease.

3. Can I have laser eye surgery while I am taking Ozempic?
Yes, in most cases – but it depends on the condition of the retina and cornea.

4. How long should my vision be stable before surgery?
We generally recommend a period of refractive stability of at least 6 months in patients without cataracts, especially when planning premium intraocular lenses.

Conclusion

Wegovy and Ozempic are not contraindications for lens replacement or multifocal lenses. What matters most is a thorough, personalized evaluation of your eyes, your general health, and your medical treatment. With the right preparation and assessment, most patients can safely undergo modern eye surgery – even while taking semaglutide.

Lens surgery

Cataract surgery

Read more about cataract and the surgery

Cataracts

The post Wegovy and Ozempic: What Does It Mean for Your Lens Surgery? appeared first on Copenhagen Eye Institute. and is written by Copenhagen Eye Institute

Farsightedness

Copenhagen Eye Institute — Wed, 14 Jan 2026 08:18:02 +0000

Copenhagen Eye Institute

Farsightedness

Farsightedness

Briefly about farsightedness:

Farsightedness causes difficulty seeing clearly, especially at close range, but also at a distance.
Objects close by may appear blurred, and one may feel the need to squint in order to focus.
Farsightedness occurs when the eye is too short relative to its optical power, which means that the image of the surroundings is formed behind the retina.
There are fewer people with severe farsightedness than with severe nearsightedness.
Approximately one in ten people aged 20–25 and about one in six aged 40–45 are farsighted.

What is farsightedness?

The term farsightedness can be misleading, as farsighted people do not see better at a distance than people with normal vision. By using the eye’s ability to accommodate, a farsighted person can bring the image onto the retina and thus see clearly at a distance. With additional accommodation, it is also possible to see clearly at close range.

With age, however, it becomes more difficult to read at short distances because the need for accommodation exceeds the lens’s ability to refract light. This creates a need for glasses. Later, problems with seeing clearly at a distance may also arise, which likewise require correction.

What causes farsightedness?

Farsightedness is caused by the eye being too short in relation to its refractive power. As a result, the eye cannot bend light sufficiently for the image to focus on the retina.
When an object comes closer, the eye attempts to compensate by making the lens more rounded (accommodation). At some point, however, this is no longer sufficient, and the image is instead formed behind the retina.

Symptoms of farsightedness

Farsightedness causes difficulty seeing clearly, especially at close range, but also at a distance.
Objects close by may appear blurred, and one may feel the need to squint in order to focus. The first signs are often tired eyes, soreness around the eyes, or headaches in the forehead after prolonged reading, writing, or other close-up work.

How is farsightedness diagnosed?

An optician or ophthalmologist can determine farsightedness if vision improves with the use of glasses with positive power (plus lenses).

Treatment and correction

Farsightedness can be corrected with glasses or contact lenses.
During cataract surgery, the artificial lens can be customized to also correct farsightedness.

Surgery

It has been possible for many years to operate on refractive errors in the eye. The methods have been continuously improved, and today modern laser technology is primarily used.

LASIK is a popular laser eye surgery procedure, but this method creates a flap on the surface of the eye. With AQUA PRK, no flap is created, making it better suited for people with an active lifestyle, as there is no flap that can become dislodged after a blow or poke to the eye.

Farsightedness in children and adolescents

In children, the symptoms may be different. Strabismus (crossed eyes) is a common sign, and if farsightedness is not treated by around six years of age, the child may develop a lazy eye (amblyopia). In severe cases, vision may never become normal. Therefore, it is important that children are examined by an ophthalmologist if vision problems are suspected.

Early detection and treatment are crucial to ensure normal visual development and to avoid permanent visual impairment.

When should you contact an ophthalmologist?

You should have your vision examined if:

You experience blurred distance vision
You have persistent headaches
Your current glasses or contact lens correction no longer works optimally, or you experience eye strain
Your child complains about vision problems

Early intervention provides the best chances for good and stable vision.

Book your ophthalmology consultation today

Book an appointment easily and quickly online and attend a consultation the same day or within the same week.

SEE AVAILABLE APPOINTMENTS

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Nearsightedness

Copenhagen Eye Institute — Thu, 08 Jan 2026 12:11:54 +0000

Copenhagen Eye Institute

Nearsightedness

Nearsightedness (myopia)

Briefly about nearsightedness:

Nearsightedness (myopia) means that you see well at close range but blurred at a distance.
The condition is caused by the eye being too long or the cornea refracting light too strongly.
Myopia often develops in childhood and may progress with age.
Nearsightedness can be corrected with glasses, contact lenses, or surgery.
Regular eye examinations are important to monitor its progression.

What is nearsightedness?

Nearsightedness, also called myopia, is one of the most common refractive errors. If you are nearsighted, you can typically read and see clearly at close range, but experience blurred vision when looking at objects farther away—such as road signs, blackboards, or TV screens.

With normal vision, light is focused precisely on the retina. With myopia, light is focused in front of the retina, resulting in blurred distance vision.

What causes nearsightedness?

Myopia most often occurs because:

The eye is longer than normal
The cornea is more curved than it should be

Both hereditary and environmental factors are involved. If one or both parents are nearsighted, the risk is higher. Research also shows that extensive close-up work (screens, reading) and limited time outdoors can contribute to the development of nearsightedness, especially in children.

Symptoms of nearsightedness

The most common symptoms are:

Blurred distance vision
Tired eyes
Squinting to see more clearly
Difficulty seeing blackboards, signs, or license plates

In children, the signs can be more subtle, such as trouble concentrating or sitting very close to screens.

How is myopia diagnosed?

Several eye conditions can cause symptoms similar to myopia. Nearsightedness is diagnosed through a thorough eye examination by an ophthalmologist. The examination measures refractive errors and also assesses the overall health of the eye.

Early diagnosis is especially important in children, as myopia can progress over time.

Treatment and correction of nearsightedness

There are several options for correcting nearsightedness:

Glasses – the most common and simple solution
Contact lenses – an alternative to glasses
Laser eye surgery or lens replacement for selected patients

The choice depends on age, prescription, lifestyle, and eye health. An ophthalmologist can advise on the best solution for you.

LASIK is a popular laser eye treatment, but this method creates a flap on the surface of the eye. With AQUA PRK, no flap is created, making it better suited for people with an active lifestyle, as this flap cannot become dislodged after a blow or poke to the eye.

Nearsightedness in children and adolescents

Myopia often begins in childhood and can worsen during the teenage years. Therefore, the following are recommended:

Regular eye check-ups
Daily time outdoors
Breaks during screen work

In some cases, special treatments can slow the progression of nearsightedness in children.

When should you contact an ophthalmologist?

You should have your vision examined if:

You experience blurred distance vision
Your child complains about vision problems
Your current glasses or contact lens prescription no longer works optimally

Early intervention provides the best chances for good and stable vision.

Book your ophthalmology consultation today

Book an appointment easily and quickly online and attend a consultation the same day or within the same week.

See available appointments

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