If you’ve become frustrated with your dependency on glasses and contact lenses, you may be interested in LASIK. Many people are good candidates for LASIK, but some may be better candidates for another type of laser vision correction.
In this post, Dr. Farooq Ashraf discusses how you can tell if you are a good candidate for LASIK.
Basic LASIK Requirements
You must be at least 18 years old, have a stable vision prescription and have no disqualifying health issues. You shouldn’t get LASIK if you have uncontrolled diabetes, glaucoma, cataracts or certain inflammatory diseases that can impact your ability to recover from surgery.
If you are pregnant or breastfeeding, you should wait to get LASIK because your eyes may be undergoing changes. You want to make sure your vision prescription is stable before undergoing LASIK surgery.
Realistic Expectations
People have many reasons for wanting to get LASIK. Their eyeglasses or contacts may interfere with their jobs, sporting activities or everyday lives.
LASIK can reduce your dependence on glasses or contacts. However, no LASIK surgeon can guarantee perfect vision. The natural aging process may also continue to impact your vision. If you have unrealistic expectations, you may not be a good candidate for LASIK. You also need to be willing to follow your doctor’s instructions regarding post-op care, including coming back for additional appointments to monitor your recovery.
Other Challenges to LASIK
In some cases, LASIK isn’t the best laser vision correction option for a particular patient. This could be the case if you have any of the following issues:
- Very thin corneas
- Irregular astigmatism
- Prior eye surgery
- Work in a physically demanding occupation where there is a risk of injuring or dislodging the cornea flap
PRK may be the more appropriate procedure in these cases. Because PRK doesn’t involve the creation of a corneal flap, you can reduce your risk of certain types of complications.
Find Out If You’re a LASIK Candidate
The only way to know for sure if you’re a good LASIK candidate is to schedule a consultation and have a full eye exam. If any issues are uncovered that may affect your LASIK candidacy, your LASIK surgeon can discuss your other options, such as PRK.
Find out if you are a good LASIK candidate by calling 971-4-348-6233 to schedule your appointment with Dr. Ashraf.