If you are tired of wearing glasses or contacts all the time, then a LASIK eye procedure might be a good option for you. Not sure if you are a good candidate to undergo this procedure? Ultimately, it is important to consult with your optometrist to determine if you can safely have LASIK, but here are some general requirements for a good candidate.
Your Eyes Are Generally Healthy
In order to undergo LASIK, you shouldn’t have any medical issues with your eyes, such as glaucoma, cataracts, chronic dry eyes, or other eye diseases or injuries. Any eye ailment can interfere with the healing process and aggravate existing issues.
Your Vision Should Be Stable
In order to qualify for LASIK, your vision should be stable for at least twelve months. Typically, this makes LASIK a bad option for teenagers and young adults who often experience frequent changes in prescription. You must wait until your vision loss plateaus before undergoing LASIK, or else future vision loss may undo the effects of the procedure.
You Must Not Be Pregnant or Nursing
Pregnancy hormones can affect your corneal shape, vision, and tear production. If you are interested in LASIK, you must wait until you are no longer pregnant or nursing, and your eyes are in a stable condition for the procedure.
Your Corneas Must Be Adequately Thick
Thin corneas may render a LASIK procedure impossible. Consult with your optometrist, who will be able to measure the thickness of your corneas and determine whether LASIK can be successfully and safely performed on you.
You’re in Good Health Overall
Any procedure comes with risks, so it is best to be in good health before undergoing LASIK. Your optometrist will be able to tell you if you have any health conditions that prohibit you from receiving the procedure. Certain autoimmune disorders or medications, for example, may make you a bad candidate for LASIK.
Your Prescription is Within Certain Limits
LASIK may be ineffective for patients with exceptionally poor vision. Consult with your optometrist to determine whether your vision falls within a safe and effective threshold for LASIK.
Conclusion
There are several factors to consider when thinking about undergoing a LASIK eye procedure. Of course, everyone’s situation is different, so to determine if LASIK really is right for you, please schedule a consultation with your optometrist. If you would like to schedule an appointment with Dr. Moffatt, please contact us today.
