LASIK corrects a range of vision issues resulting from an irregularly shaped cornea, including nearsightedness, farsightedness, and astigmatism. Laser vision correction surgery reshapes the cornea, thereby improving vision.
Negrey Eye Associates is a comprehensive eye care practice that offers LASIK, but not everyone is an ideal candidate. If LASIK isn’t an appropriate option for you, our team will discuss other options. Here’s what you need to know about assessing your suitability for LASIK.
LASIK (laser-assisted in situ keratomileusis) is a refractive surgery designed to correct common vision problems. By reshaping the cornea, LASIK improves the eye's ability to focus light correctly on the retina, resulting in clearer vision. The procedure is quick, typically taking less than 30 minutes, and offers a fast recovery time with minimal discomfort.
Age plays a significant role in determining LASIK eligibility. Ideal candidates are between 20 and 40 years old, when the eyes are most stable. However, LASIK can also be suitable for older adults, provided they don’t have age-related conditions like cataracts or severe dry eyes that might affect the outcome.
For LASIK to be successful, your vision prescription must be stable. Major changes in your prescription over the past year may indicate that your vision is still fluctuating, which could compromise the long-term effectiveness of the surgery. Typically, a stable prescription for at least 12 months is required to proceed with LASIK.
Healthy eyes are crucial for a good LASIK outcome. LASIK isn’t an appropriate option if you have conditions such as severe dry eye, glaucoma, cataracts, or corneal diseases.
Additionally, your overall health is important. Autoimmune disorders, uncontrolled diabetes, and certain medications can affect healing and increase the risk of complications. A comprehensive eye exam and a thorough review of your medical history will help determine your suitability.
LASIK involves reshaping the cornea, and sufficient corneal thickness is necessary to perform the surgery safely. If your corneas are too thin, alternatives like PRK (photorefractive keratectomy) might be recommended instead. During your LASIK evaluation, your Negrey Eye Care provider measures your corneal thickness to ensure it meets the required standards.
While LASIK can significantly improve your vision, it may not provide perfect vision for everyone. Some patients may still need glasses or contact lenses for certain activities, especially as they age. Understanding the potential outcomes and limitations of LASIK helps you make an informed decision.
Your lifestyle and profession can also influence your suitability for LASIK. For example, athletes and individuals in professions that require excellent vision without glasses, such as pilots, often benefit from LASIK. However, if your job involves exposure to extreme environments or high-risk activities, we may suggest waiting until your job situation is more stable.
Considering LASIK to improve your vision requires careful evaluation. If you're interested in knowing whether you’re a candidate for LASIK, contact us to schedule a consultation with Negrey Eye Associates today. Our team of eye experts is dedicated to helping you achieve the best possible vision and guiding you through every step of the process.
