About the procedure
Timely laser treatment can prevent permanent damage to vision. The modern Norlase ECHO system allows doctors to treat the retina precisely and painlessly – before vision deteriorates seriously. Retinal laser photocoagulation is a non-invasive medical procedure in which the affected areas of the retina are treated with a special Norlase ECHO argon laser. The laser acts precisely, only where needed – it seals small damaged blood vessels, strengthens the tissue and prevents further damage to the retina.
The procedure is performed on an outpatient basis, without the need for hospitalisation, and takes only a few minutes. The advantages of the Norlase ECHO device we use at iClinic are its extreme precision, speed and patient comfort – with no unpleasant sensations or lengthy recovery.
You can read more about this state-of-the-art laser system in our blog: We are the first in Slovakia and the Czech Republic: Norlase ECHO
Who is it for?
Retinal laser photocoagulation is mainly performed in patients with:
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diabetic retinopathy,
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retinal tears or degenerations,
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macular oedema,
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ischaemic or inflammatory retinal diseases,
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vascular anomalies and haemorrhages in the retina.
The aim is to preserve the existing level of vision, stabilise sight and prevent the disease from progressing to a stage that could lead to permanent loss of vision.
How the procedure works
1. Preparing the eye
– anaesthetic eye drops are applied, so the patient feels no pain.
2. Aiming the laser
– using a contact lens, the doctor precisely identifies the affected areas of the retina.
3. Delivering the laser pulses
– the laser light precisely targets the affected vessels and stabilises the retina.
4. Check and recommendations
– after the procedure, the effect is checked and the patient receives instructions for rest at home.
The whole procedure takes 10–20 minutes and the patient goes home afterwards.
After the procedure
- Slightly blurred vision may occur after the procedure, which wears off within a few hours.
- The eye may be more sensitive to light, so we recommend wearing sunglasses.
- No special aftercare is required – simply follow your doctor's recommendations.
- The retina is checked after approximately 4–6 weeks.
The result
The aim of laser photocoagulation is to:- stop bleeding or fluid leakage from the retinal vessels,
- prevent retinal detachment,
- stabilise or improve visual function,
- slow the progression of diabetic retinopathy,
- and preserve sight for as long as possible without the need for surgery.
The Norlase ECHO laser uses extremely precise pulses of light that act only on the affected area, so the surrounding healthy tissue remains completely undamaged.
The result is long-lasting and, in most cases, allows patients to lead a normal life without restrictions.
Advantages and benefits for the patient
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Painless outpatient procedure – no hospital stay needed
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High precision and safety thanks to the state-of-the-art Norlase laser
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Healthy retinal tissue is preserved – the laser acts only on the affected areas
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Prevention of vision loss and of worsening diabetic retinopathy
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Quick return to normal life – no recovery period
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Can be repeated as needed
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The state-of-the-art Norlase ECHO system – a unique laser available only at iClinic
Our experience
The iClinic eye clinic was the first in Slovakia and the Czech Republic to introduce the revolutionary Norlase ECHO argon laser into clinical practice. It is a state-of-the-art Danish system that combines extreme precision, minimal thermal damage to the surrounding tissue and maximum patient comfort.
Read more about this global innovation in our blog:
We are the first in Slovakia and the Czech Republic: Norlase ECHO
The procedures are performed by our experienced ophthalmic surgeons with many years of practice in treating retinal diseases and diabetic retinopathy.
Frequently asked questions
Is the procedure painful?
No. It is performed under local anaesthesia with eye drops, and the patient feels neither pain nor heat.
Will my vision improve after the procedure?
The aim of the procedure is to stop or slow down damage to the retina in order to prevent loss of vision. Sometimes vision improves slightly once the oedema has subsided.
Is a hospital stay necessary?
No, it is an outpatient procedure – you go home afterwards.
How often is the procedure repeated?
It depends on the severity of the findings – sometimes one treatment is enough, while extensive retinopathy requires several sessions.
When can I drive or work at a computer again?
Usually as early as the next day, once your vision has stabilised.
Is the procedure also suitable for people with diabetes?
Yes – for patients with diabetic retinopathy in particular, laser photocoagulation is often key to preventing blindness.
Have you been diagnosed with a retinal disease or diabetic retinopathy?
Book an examination at which our specialists will assess whether Norlase laser treatment is suitable for you.
PRICE OF THE PROCEDURE:
150 €
/ EYE
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A big THANK YOU once again!!! I can see perfectly.
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Michal Szabo
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I am extremely satisfied and happy that I see much better.. thank you
