Millions of people agree that LASIK was one of the best choices they have made for their vision. LASIK helps achieve incredible vision quickly and safely. However, the procedure is not for everyone.
One of the reasons LASIK is so effective is because good surgeons choose their patients carefully. In order to schedule the LASIK procedure, you first need to visit your eye doctor for a LASIK consultation to see if you are a good candidate.
Keep reading to learn what a good LASIK candidate looks like and some of the qualities your eye doctor will be looking for!
You Are at Least 18 Years Old
The FDA has approved LASIK for those eighteen years or older. Eye doctors will often wait until you are in your twenties before operating.
This is to make sure your eyes have completely finished growing.
Your Vision Has Not Changed Significantly
If your vision is unstable, you will not be able to receive LASIK. Eye doctors take this precaution to prevent you from getting the procedure, only to have your vision change soon after.
In order to qualify for LASIK, most eye doctors will require that your glasses prescription be stable for at least one year prior to qualifying for the procedure.
You Are Not Pregnant or Nursing
Pregnancy hormones can affect your vision, so if you have your LASIK consultation while you are pregnant or nursing, measurements could be off and affect your vision outcome. If the measurements used for LASIK surgery are taken during these fluctuations, it could cause your vision to become worse once the hormones wear off.
Either plan to get LASIK before becoming pregnant or wait until after you have finished nursing.
Your Corneas Are Thick Enough
LASIK involves creating a flap of tissue on the front surface of your corneas. If the surgeon cannot safely create this flap because of insufficient tissue, then LASIK is likely not the best method of permanent vision correction for you.
However, there are alternatives to LASIK that might be able to help you achieve your vision goals. Ask about them during your consultation at Eye Care Specialists in Scranton, PA.
Your Prescription Isn’t Beyond What LASIK Can Treat
LASIK is a powerful surgery, but it has its limits. Excessively high prescriptions might be too dangerous to treat with LASIK.
If your LASIK surgeon has to remove too much tissue to correct for the high prescription, it could damage the eye and cause vision to worsen.
You Aren’t Suffering From an Autoimmune Disorder
Although recovery from LASIK is relatively easy, you still need to allow yourself time to heal from it. Conditions that affect your ability to recover may make LASIK not worth the risk.
Certain health conditions like HIV/AIDS, rheumatoid arthritis, multiple sclerosis, and diabetes may make recovery challenging.
Your Pre-Existing Eye Conditions Are Under Control
Since your LASIK surgeon will operate on your eyes, your eyes must be in good shape. Before the surgery begins, your eyes will need to be considered healthy.
Some eye conditions like chronic dry eye can make your recovery too difficult if it is not well under control prior to the procedure.
Your LASIK Expectations Are Realistic
It’s good to get excited about LASIK. The surgery is wildly popular for a reason: it works.
However, it is important to realize that everyone’s outcome will vary. Most people end up completely independent from glasses, but others may still need them in some situations.
Are you interested in learning if you may be a LASIK candidate? Schedule a LASIK consultation at Eye Care Specialists in Kingston, PA, today!
