Do you dream of getting out of bed without needing to fumble around for your eyeglasses? Or of saving money from not having to purchase endless contacts or bottles of contact lens solution? The goal of LASIK eye surgery is to improve visual acuity and relieve you of dependence on glasses and contact lenses. Not everyone qualifies for LASIK, though. Here are some criteria to know if you are a candidate for Lasik Eye Surgery.
Age
Typically LASIK is not recommended for candidates under the age of 18, as anyone younger may still be growing and there is a good chance that their vision has not stabilized yet and the refractive error may change.
Stable Prescription
LASIK candidates should maintain a stable prescription for at least a year prior to the surgery. LASIK can treat nearsightedness (myopia), farsightedness (hyperopia), and astigmatism.
Healthy Eyes
LASIK is not suitable for those with certain eye conditions. It is also not recommended for those with an active eye infection or injury. Dr. Patel will discuss your candidacy for LASIK at your consultation.
General Health
Potential LASIK candidates may not qualify for the surgery if they have a compromised immune system — either from lupus, rheumatoid arthritis, fibromyalgia, etc. Certain medications may also increase the risk of complications. Be sure to disclose all of the medications you take during your consultation with Dr. Patel.
Pregnancy/Nursing
Patients who are pregnant or nursing can have vision fluctuations. It is best to wait until they are at least six weeks post-partum or six weeks after concluding breastfeeding before scheduling a LASIK consultation. Some patients may have to wait six months or longer after delivering a child or concluding breastfeeding to ensure that their vision has stabilized prior to having any laser vision correction.
Corneal Thickness
LASIK candidates must have a certain degree of corneal thickness to maintain the strength and shape of the cornea after LASIK surgery. With blade-free LASIK, some candidates that were once told that they did not have enough corneal thickness are now eligible for LASIK surgery. At your complimentary consultation, Dr. Patel will measure your corneal thickness as well as multiple other parameters. She will then discuss your laser vision correction options at that time. Some laser vision candidates may not have enough corneal thickness to have LASIK surgery safely and may be able to have other laser options such as PRK.
Complimentary LASIK consultation
The best way to determine whether you are a good candidate for Lasik Eye Surgery is to come and meet with Dr. Patel for a comprehensive consultation and eye examination. During your consultation, she will review your medical history in great detail, examine your eyes, and take multiple measurements of your eyes. You will have the opportunity to discuss your specific visual goals with Dr. Patel. She will also ask questions about your lifestyle and visual needs in order to find which refractive procedure is best for you.
There is no obligation or pressure to schedule surgery. This consultation is your opportunity to learn more about your vision and your laser vision correction options.
