LASIK eye surgery has helped millions of Americans with refractive errors gain more visual freedom. This procedure uses a laser to precisely alter the shape of the cornea, a common cause of blurry vision.
The remarkable success of LASIK surgery can be attributed to careful patient screening by providers like Kentucky Eye Institute. By identifying specific indicators in potential candidates, eye care professionals can minimize complications and maximize the chances of good results.
Keep reading to learn five of those signs that indicate you’re a good candidate for LASIK!
1. You’re in Good Health
Your body’s general health has a powerful impact on your eyes. This is especially true if you have any conditions linked to an impaired immune system, like rheumatoid arthritis or lupus, or if you take immunosuppressive drugs.
Having good overall health ensures your eyes can heal properly after the procedure and reduces the risk of complications.
2. Your Eyes Are Healthy
Having healthy eyes is a must for undergoing LASIK surgery. Certain conditions may disqualify you as a good candidate for the procedure.
At the top of the list are progressive eye conditions like glaucoma, cataracts, corneal disease, and scarring, or recurrent problems like dry eye disease or a history of chronic eye infections. Some physical characteristics of your eyes may affect your eligibility for LASIK as well. These include corneas that are unusually thin or irregularly shaped. Additionally, LASIK may not be suitable if you have severe vision problems or an unstable prescription.
3. You’re at Least 18
LASIK is only recommended for adults whose vision has stabilized. Since eyes continue to develop throughout childhood and adolescence, the procedure must wait until physical maturity.
This typically means waiting until age 18 or older to ensure your prescription has remained stable and your eyes have finished developing.
4. You’re Not Pregnant or Nursing
Pregnancy and nursing cause significant hormonal changes that can affect your vision and healing ability. These fluctuations can impact LASIK results and potentially slow recovery.
If you’re pregnant or nursing, it’s recommended to wait until at least three months after weaning before considering LASIK surgery.
5. You Have Realistic Expectations
While LASIK successfully reduces dependence on glasses and contacts for most patients, it’s important to understand its limitations. The procedure aims to significantly improve your vision but may not achieve ‘perfect’ vision in every case.
It’s also important to note that LASIK doesn’t prevent age-related vision changes. After 40, you may still develop presbyopia, which affects close-up vision.
The procedure also doesn’t protect against other eye conditions like glaucoma, cataracts, or macular degeneration. Understanding these limitations helps set realistic expectations for your LASIK outcome.
The goal is to greatly improve your daily vision, even if it doesn’t guarantee perfect vision for life.
Should You Consider LASIK?
If you meet the five criteria discussed above and dream of reducing your dependence on glasses or contacts, LASIK could be an excellent option for you.
The procedure has a long track record of success, with most patients achieving 20/25 vision or better. While the decision to undergo any surgical procedure is personal, LASIK’s high satisfaction rates and relatively quick recovery time make it an attractive choice for many people with refractive errors.
The best way to determine your candidacy is to schedule a comprehensive evaluation with an experienced eye surgeon who can assess your specific situation and discuss any concerns you may have. During this consultation, your eye doctor at Kentucky Eye Institute will perform detailed measurements of your eyes and review your medical history to ensure LASIK is a safe and effective option for you.
What Happens During LASIK?
LASIK is a precise, blade-free procedure that typically takes fifteen to twenty minutes for both eyes. The procedure begins with the administration of numbing eye drops to ensure your comfort throughout the process.
Using advanced laser technology, your surgeon creates a thin flap in your cornea, which is gently folded back to access the underlying tissue. The excimer laser then reshapes your cornea according to your specific prescription, correcting nearsightedness, farsightedness, or astigmatism.
Finally, the flap is carefully repositioned and acts as a natural bandage, promoting quick healing. Most patients report minimal discomfort during and after the procedure, and many notice improved vision within 24 hours.
Your LASIK surgeon will provide detailed care instructions for your recovery, including the use of eye drops and protective shields, to ensure optimal healing. Follow-up appointments will be scheduled to monitor your progress and address any concerns.
How Much Does LASIK Cost?
The cost of LASIK varies depending on factors like your prescription, the technology used, and your geographic location. While LASIK represents a significant investment, many patients find it cost-effective when compared to the long-term expense of glasses and contact lenses. Consider that over a lifetime, you might spend tens of thousands of dollars on vision correction through traditional means. During your consultation, our team will provide a detailed breakdown of your specific costs to help you make an informed decision about your vision correction investment.
Do you want to learn if LASIK is right for you? Schedule your appointment today at Kentucky Eye Institute in Lexington, KY, and take the first step toward clearer vision.