Our Technology

Medically reviewed by: Op. Dr. Alim Hüseynov · Last updated: 7 September 2026

Diagnostic and surgical technology

Equipment does not make a surgical decision; it produces the measurements on which the decision rests. What matters is that each measurement is obtained on a device suited to it, and that the values agree with one another before a plan is made.

Measurement and diagnosis

• Corneal topography and tomography: anterior and posterior corneal surface, elevation maps, pachymetric distribution and ectasia indices — the basis of suitability assessment for laser surgery
• Pachymetry: corneal thickness, which determines residual stromal bed and the tissue budget available
• Optical biometry: axial length, keratometry, anterior chamber depth and white-to-white for intraocular lens power calculation
• Optical coherence tomography (OCT): retinal layers, macula and optic nerve head; anterior segment imaging where required
• Visual field analysis: glaucoma and neuro-ophthalmic assessment
• Specular microscopy: corneal endothelial cell density, required before phakic lens and complex cataract surgery
• Tear film assessment: break-up time, Schirmer testing and meibomian gland evaluation, since an unstable tear film invalidates topographic measurement

Treatment platforms

• Excimer laser for surface and flap-based refractive procedures
• Femtosecond laser for flap and lenticule creation
• Phacoemulsification for cataract and refractive lens surgery
• Corneal cross-linking for progressive keratoconus
• Retinal laser and vitreoretinal surgical systems

Planning and verification

Before surgery, the measurements from different devices are compared with one another. Discrepant readings — for example keratometry that does not agree between two instruments, or topography obtained on an unstable tear film — are repeated rather than averaged. Where corneal maps are inconsistent, planning is postponed until two consecutive concordant examinations are available.

Our centre also uses RLES AI, clinical decision support software for refractive surgical planning that checks the measured values against published safety thresholds. The output is advisory; the surgical decision rests with the surgeon.

Frequently asked questions

Why are so many measurements needed before laser surgery?

Suitability depends on corneal thickness, curvature, topographic indices and tear film stability together. A single value cannot establish safety.

What is corneal tomography?

It maps both the front and back corneal surfaces and the thickness distribution, which is essential for detecting early keratoconus.

Why is the tear film checked before measurement?

An unstable tear film distorts topography and can mimic corneal disease, leading to incorrect planning.

Does software decide the operation?

No. Decision support software checks the values against published thresholds; the surgeon makes the decision.

Medically reviewed by

Op. Dr. Alim Hüseynov — Ophthalmologist — refractive laser surgery, cornea and oculoplastic surgery, Nişantaşı Hastanesi Göz Merkezi. Our doctors

This page is for general information and does not replace an examination by a doctor. Treatment decisions are made after examination and diagnostic tests.