I know what you’re thinking. You’re seriously considering LASIK, but you’re worried you might not be suitable. Millions of people have achieved clearer vision thanks to LASIK and other refractive surgeries. LASIK and PRK have a long, well-established safety record, and most patients are pleased with their results. However, refractive surgery isn’t appropriate for everyone. There are certain criteria candidates must meet in order to qualify for LASIK or PRK…
If you are interested in refractive surgery, we will meet with you one-on-one to evaluate your visual needs and goals.
We’ll also discuss your eye and health history, as well as any previous surgeries and current medications you are taking.
We will perform some tests to get a closer look at your corneas and measure your visual acuity.
I will determine whether surgery is suitable for you and is likely to give you the results you want.
As you prepare for your consultation, it’s a good idea to familiarize yourself with the criteria for refractive surgery candidates, which we’ll get into next.
You are of age and healthy
To qualify for LASIK surgery, you need to be at last 18 years old and in good general health. If you have any chronic illnesses or uncontrolled autoimmune disorders, such as rheumatoid arthritis, type 1 diabetes or Sjogren’s syndrome, surgery is probably not a good idea.
Certain medications can also increase the risk of surgery; for example, immunosuppressants can compromise the healing process. There is no upper age limit for refractive surgery; although it is important to note that those over 40 may start to see the effects of presbyopia (the age-related loss of reading vision) and require reading glasses.
You have a moderate degree of refractive error
You should have a moderate refractive error that causes myopia (nearsightedness), hyperopia (farsightedness) or astigmatism. If your vision prescription is very high, refractive surgery may not give you the results you desire. With a high prescription, the outcomes are less predictable and the risks increase. Your vision prescription must be stable for at least a year prior to surgery.
You have healthy eyes
To qualify for LASIK surgery, you must be free of any serious conditions that could compromise how your eyes respond to surgery or heal from it. Certain disorders can complicate treatment or affect the results.
For example, refractive surgery (PRK or LASIK) is not appropriate for anyone with a history of the following:
- Glaucoma
- Keratoconus
- Inflammation in the eye
- Chronic dry eye
- Eye injury
- Cataracts
- Herpes involving the eye area
- Also, your pupils should not be too large, as this could increase the chances of developing visual errors (e.g., halos) after surgery in low-lighting conditions.
You have an adequate amount of corneal thickness
Some refractive surgeries, like traditional LASIK, require a certain thickness to the cornea. This is because the cornea must be strong enough to withstand the creation of the flap. However, if your corneas are not thick enough for LASIK, I can explain the available alternatives.
Refractive surgery is not appropriate for everyone. There are certain criteria candidates must meet in order to qualify for LASIK or PRK.
It’s probably time for you and me to get acquainted
If you’re concerned about your candidacy for Bladeless Custom LASIK, Traditional LASIK or PRK, I can set your mind at ease once and for all at a short but comprehensive screening appointment.
So, do you have any related questions to the one we answered just now? Let’s see your question in the comments below and we promise to reply!