What Are the Health Requirements for LASIK

by Robert Dinga, O.D.

Tired of the daily grind of glasses or contact lenses? LASIK surgery might be the answer to your prayers. However, not everyone is a suitable candidate for LASIK. Understanding the general health requirements can help you decide if it’s the right choice for you. Here are a few key points to consider.

Age

According to the FDA, LASIK candidates must be at least 18 years old. Younger individuals are more likely to experience changes in their vision over time. While there is no maximum age for LASIK, the overall health of your eyes is a crucial factor.

Eye Health

Stable Vision:

Your prescription should be stable within 0.50 diopter for at least one year.

Corneal Thickness:

Adequate corneal thickness is necessary for creating the flap and reshaping the cornea. Thin corneas might disqualify you from LASIK, but alternative procedures like PRK may be suitable.

No Eye Infections or Injuries:

Your eyes should be free from infections, injuries, and conditions like severe dry eyes.

General Health

Autoimmune Diseases:

Individuals with autoimmune diseases, such as rheumatoid arthritis or lupus, are generally not suitable candidates for LASIK. These conditions can impair the body’s healing process, increasing the risk of complications post-surgery. Your doctor will be able to review if LASIK is right for you.

Immunodeficiencies:

People with immunodeficiencies are usually advised against LASIK due to the increased risk of infection and slower healing times. The immune system plays a crucial role in recovery, and compromised immunity can lead to adverse outcomes. Your doctor will be able to review if LASIK is right for you.

Keratoconus:

This progressive thinning of the cornea disqualifies individuals from LASIK, as the procedure can further weaken the cornea. Alternative treatments, such as corneal cross-linking, may be recommended.

Abnormal Corneal Topography:

Irregular corneal shapes or surfaces, such as corneal ectasia or pellucid marginal degeneration, can lead to poor LASIK outcomes. A detailed corneal topography test with a qualified LASIK specialist can help determine suitability.

Pregnancy and Nursing:

Hormonal fluctuations during pregnancy and breastfeeding can cause temporary changes in vision. These changes make it difficult to determine the stability required for LASIK. It is generally recommended to wait several months after pregnancy and nursing before considering the procedure.

Making an Informed Decision

By understanding these health requirements and conditions, you can make a well-informed decision about whether LASIK is right for you. The next step is to schedule a comprehensive consultation with a LASIK specialist. During this consultation, your medical history will be reviewed, and necessary tests will be conducted to assess your eligibility. This thorough evaluation is essential to ensure you are a suitable candidate for the procedure and to help you achieve the best possible outcomes.

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