Your journey
Pre-Operative Assessment — Refractive Surgery
A complete, personalized examination to determine the technique best suited to your eyes.
AN ESSENTIAL STEP
Why a pre-operative assessment?
The pre-operative assessment is a mandatory step before any refractive surgery (LASIK, PRK, SMILE) or phakic implant. It allows Dr Tourabaly to precisely evaluate the anatomy of your eyes, confirm the absence of contraindications and determine the surgical technique best suited to your case.
This complete assessment takes around 1.5 to 2 hours. It relies on a battery of high-technology examinations that explore the cornea, the lens, the retina and the visual pathways as a whole. The results make it possible to offer you a personalized treatment plan with maximum safety.
EXAMINATIONS PERFORMED
The examinations performed
The pre-operative assessment includes the following examinations, performed at the Cachan practice with latest-generation equipment:
Corneal topography
Complete 3D mapping of the cornea (anterior and posterior surfaces) using the Sirius (CSO), a reference platform for corneal topography and tomography. It detects irregularities, subclinical keratoconus and measures the radii of curvature.
Pachymetry
Precise measurement of corneal thickness at every point. An essential parameter for determining whether LASIK is feasible or whether PRK or a phakic implant would be preferred.
Aberrometry
Analysis of the eye’s optical aberrations (higher-order aberrations). It makes it possible to optimize the laser ablation profile for high-quality visual results.
Pupillometry
Measurement of pupil diameter in daytime and night-time conditions. A wide diameter requires an adapted treatment optical zone to avoid halos.
Fundus examination
Examination of the peripheral retina and the optic nerve after pupil dilation. It detects retinal lesions (tears, lattice degeneration) to be treated before surgery.
Ocular biometry
Measurement of axial length, anterior chamber depth and lens diameter using the IOL Master 700 (Zeiss), a reference optical biometer with Swept-Source technology. Crucial data for calculating phakic or cataract implants.
Dry eye tests
Schirmer test and measurement of tear film break-up time (BUT). Pre-existing dryness guides the choice toward PRK or SMILE rather than LASIK.
Tonometry
Measurement of intraocular pressure. Systematic screening for glaucoma, which is a relative contraindication to certain refractive techniques.
see patient testimonials
Sirius CSO + IOL Master 700 + OCT
examinations + consultation
PREPARATION
How to prepare?
- Soft contact lenses: remove at least 48 hours before the assessment
- Rigid contact lenses: remove at least 3 weeks before
- Do not drive after the examination (pupils dilated for 3 to 4 hours)
- Bring your previous glasses or contact lens prescriptions
- Allow 1.5 to 2 hours of availability
AFTER THE ASSESSMENT
After the assessment
At the end of the assessment, Dr Tourabaly reviews all the results and sees you in consultation to explain in detail:
- Your eligibility for refractive surgery
- The recommended technique (LASIK, PRK, SMILE or phakic implant) and why
- The expected results and any limitations
- A detailed quote (refractive surgery is not reimbursed by French Social Security)
- A mandatory reflection period before scheduling the procedure
FAQ
Frequently asked questions
How long does the pre-operative assessment take?
The full assessment takes between 1.5 and 2 hours. It includes a series of instrument-based examinations followed by a consultation with Dr Tourabaly to review the results and discuss the treatment plan.
Do I need to remove my contact lenses before the assessment?
Yes, it is essential. Soft lenses must be removed at least 48 hours before, and rigid lenses at least 3 weeks before. Contact lenses alter the shape of the cornea and would distort the measurements.
Is the assessment reimbursed?
The ophthalmology consultation is covered by the French health insurance system. Some additional examinations may involve an extra fee. Your supplementary health insurance may cover all or part of the remaining costs.
When can surgery be performed after the assessment?
A minimum reflection period of 15 days is mandatory between the assessment and the procedure. The date is set in agreement with the surgeon, depending on your availability and the operating schedule.
Can I drive after the assessment?
No. Pupil dilation causes blurred vision for 3 to 4 hours. Plan to have someone accompany you or use public transport (RER B, Arcueil-Cachan station).
Complete assessment at the Cachan practice: no commitment.
This article is for informational purposes. A personalized ophthalmological opinion remains essential for any treatment decision.
Going further
- LASIK surgery — the most common laser technique when the assessment is favorable.
- PRK / Trans-PRK — surface laser, particularly suited to thin corneas.
- SMILE — the minimally invasive small-incision technique.
- Phakic implant (ICL) — an option for high myopia not eligible for laser.
- Am I eligible? — the main eligibility criteria in 2 minutes.
- Refractive surgery pricing — a breakdown of prices by technique.
Written and medically reviewed by Dr Moïse Tourabaly, ophthalmologist — former chief resident (Quinze-Vingts National Eye Hospital). Last updated: July 6, 2026