Optical Biometry (Myopia Tracking)

Istanbul

Optical Biometry (Myopia Tracking) in Istanbul is available at 1 hospital in the Voumed network.

Optical biometry is a quick, non-contact diagnostic technology that measures the eye with great precision using a beam of light rather than any physical contact. It is widely used in two situations: to plan eye surgery accurately, by determining the exact power of the artificial lens needed, and to detect and monitor short-sightedness (myopia), especially in children and young adults whose eyes are still growing. In a single, painless scan it records the key dimensions of the eye, providing the precise numbers that guide both surgical planning and long-term follow-up.

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At a glance

Type: non-contact optical measurement device
Used for: surgical lens planning and tracking myopia progression
Key benefit: fast, precise, painless measurement of the eye
Anaesthesia: none, the test is non-contact and comfortable
Where it is used: leading accredited eye centres abroad

What it is

Optical biometry uses light to measure the internal structures of the eye without touching its surface. Its most important measurement is the axial length, the front-to-back distance of the eye, along with the curvature of the cornea and other key dimensions. Because it is contactless, it is comfortable and avoids the small risks of older contact methods. In children, axial length is the most reliable marker of how fast the eye is lengthening, which is what drives myopia. In adults preparing for cataract or lens surgery, these same precise measurements are essential for choosing the correct artificial lens.

How it works

The patient simply rests their chin on a support and looks at a target inside the device while a harmless beam of light scans the eye. The whole measurement takes only seconds and causes no discomfort. The device then calculates the eye's dimensions and, where relevant, compares a child's results against large reference databases by age and other factors to show whether the eye is growing faster than expected. For surgery, the measurements feed into formulas that determine the precise power of the lens implant. The result is a clear, standardised report the specialist uses for diagnosis or planning.

What it treats and who it helps

Optical biometry is not a treatment in itself but a precise measurement tool that guides care. It is valuable for children and young adults with progressing myopia, helping confirm a diagnosis early and track whether glasses, special lenses or other myopia-control measures are slowing the eye's growth. It is equally important for adults undergoing cataract or refractive lens surgery, where accurate measurements directly affect the quality of vision afterwards. By providing reliable numbers, it helps the eye specialist make confident, individualised decisions.

Benefits and what to expect

The main benefits are speed, comfort and accuracy. Because it is non-contact, there is nothing to numb, no pressure on the eye and no recovery time; the test fits easily into a routine appointment. Its high precision supports better surgical planning and clearer vision after lens surgery, and its reliable tracking helps families and specialists make timely decisions about myopia control. Patients can expect a brief scan, after which the specialist explains the results and what they mean for diagnosis, treatment or follow-up.

Frequently asked questions

These answers are general guidance and may vary by provider. Confirm the details with the hospital you choose.

Does the test hurt or touch my eye?

No. Optical biometry is completely non-contact and painless. A beam of light measures the eye while you look at a target, so nothing touches the surface and no numbing drops are needed.

How long does it take?

The measurement itself usually takes only a few seconds per eye. The whole appointment is short, and you can return to normal activities immediately afterwards.

Why is it used before eye surgery?

Before cataract or lens surgery, the surgeon needs the exact dimensions of your eye to choose an artificial lens of the correct power. Optical biometry provides these precise measurements, which directly affect how clearly you see afterwards.

How does it help with myopia in children?

By measuring the eye's axial length very accurately and comparing it over time, the device shows whether the eye is lengthening faster than normal. This helps confirm myopia early and check whether treatments to slow its progression are working.

How often should the test be repeated?

For children with myopia, it is usually repeated at intervals to monitor progression, as advised by the eye specialist. For surgical planning, it is performed beforehand and may be checked again if needed.

Is it safe for children?

Yes. Because the test uses only a harmless beam of light and does not touch the eye, it is safe and comfortable, which makes it well suited to children and to repeated follow-up over time.