“Not everyone who wears eyeglasses or contact lenses is a good candidate for LASIK.” The qualifications of a good candidate for LASIK generally include the following:
- At least 18 years of age. This guideline is in place because it is possible for eyes to change until around age 18. In fact, some suggest that vision changes are more likely even into your early 20s, so this is a factor you may want to discuss with your doctor before making a decision for LASIK.
- Maintained stable vision over the past year.
- Have no history of corneal disease.
- Do not have significant medical or eye problems, which may reduce the effectiveness of the surgery or the patient’s ability to heal properly and quickly. These may include: diabetes or diabetic retinopathy, cataracts, ocular herpes (herpes infection of the eye), rheumatoid arthritis, lupus, corneal ulcers, keratoconus (thinning of the cornea), macular degeneration, and glaucoma.
- Are not taking medications that may cause vision changes or prevent proper healing
After the procedure
These medications may include: steroids, retinoic acid, and immunosuppressants;
- Are not pregnant or nursing, which can make vision changes more likely.
- Do not have scarring on the cornea.
- Do not have a history of dry eyes, which may be aggravated following surgery.
- Do not have thin corneas.
- Do not have extra-large pupils in dim conditions.
- Have a prescription within certain limits (currently, myopia up to -12D; astigmatism up to 6D; hyperopia up to +6D).
- Do not actively participate in contact sports in which blows to the face and eyes are a normal occurrence.
- Do not have a job that prohibits refractive surgery. Be sure to check with your employer, professional society, and military service before undergoing any surgery.
- Cost is not an issue. Most medical insurance will not pay for refractive surgery. Although the cost is coming down, it is still significant. You will also want to be aware that some medical experts who tout low cost may not have the experience or qualifications of a doctor who charges more.
- Have realistic expectations. LASIK surgery cannot provide perfect vision every time. There are some risks involved, and you should be aware of these risks and have realistic expectations for the outcome of your surgery.
resource; fcs.tamu.edu
