Are You a Potential Candidate for LASIK Eye Surgery?

Like any surgery, someone considering a LASIK procedure must meet certain physical requirements to be considered a good candidate for the surgery. To determine if you are a good candidate for LASIK eye surgery, you will need a comprehensive exam and consultation with an ophthalmologist. During this initial meeting, your doctor will check your eyes, review your medical history and discuss both the risks and benefits of LASIK eye surgery. While only a LASIK

LASIK candidates must have a mature eye that has sustained stable vision for at least one year. People under the age of 18 are generally not considered good candidates for LASIK eye surgery; neither are people whose vision frequently fluctuates.

LASIK candidates must have healthy eyes. Someone who has had an eye infection in the past year, suffers from dry eye syndrome or has scarring on the cornea is not a good candidate for a LASIK procedure.

LASIK candidates must meet physiological eye requirements.  If your corneas are too thin, you have abnormal corneal curvature or your prescription is too high, you are not a good candidate for LASIK. Any of these things may increase your risk of corneal weakening.

LASIK candidates must have a clean bill of health. People suffering from autoimmune disorders are not good candidates for LASIK. Diseases like rheumatoid arthritis, lupus, AIDS/HIV may cause an adverse reaction to LASIK that may have a negative impact on your vision.

LASIK candidates must not be pregnant or nursing. Hormonal changes like this do not make you a strong candidate for LASIK

LASIK candidates must not have large pupils. Those with large pupils are more likely to experience glare, halos and other night vision problems after LASIK surgery.

LASIK candidates must understand the risks of LASIK eye surgery. All surgery has risks—and LASIK is no different. Be sure you understand the risks and are comfortable with them before agreeing to LASIK surgery (see Side Effects and Potential Complications of LASIK Surgery).
_______________________

Even if you meet the physical requirements that make you a good candidate for LASIK, if you are not comfortable with the risks, have an occupation that does not allow eye surgery (some public safety jobs do not allow eye surgeries), or are not sure you can afford LASIK, this surgery may not be the best choice for you. An experienced ophthalmologist should be able to help you weigh the risks and benefits of LASIK surgery (see Side Effects and Potential Complications of LASIK Surgery and What Can You Expect from a LASIK Procedure?).

***This article is for general information purposes only. Contact an ophthalmologist to determine if you are a candidate for LASIK.