LASIK Candidates

Individuals who suffer from vision impairment can benefit tremendously from LASIK eye surgery, but the procedure is not for everyone. A good LASIK candidate should meet the general requirements outlined below, as well as have an understanding of the risks and possible side effects of treatment. Ensuring that you meet the recommended conditions of LASIK surgery can greatly improve your chances for a positive outcome. Your ophthalmologist can evaluate your vision and determine if you would be a suitable candidate for refractive surgery.

If you are interested in learning more about laser eye surgery or would like to schedule a consultation with an area doctor regarding LASIK, we can help at DocShop. The doctors in our nationwide directory promote safe laser eye surgery and take every precaution to reduce the risk factors associated with LASIK. Your vision is of the utmost importance so you should take great care to ensure you see a qualified and experienced doctor.

General LASIK Requirements

Your ophthalmologist will follow these guidelines when considering your candidacy for LASIK:

• To ensure that the eye has developed properly and is fully matured, the ideal LASIK candidate is at least 18 years old
• Prior to surgery, vision must be stable for at least one year
• No eye infection or injury within the past year
• Candidates may not be affected by an auto immune disorder, such as Sjogren's Syndrome or Lupus
• No history of herpes infections in the eye, as LASIK may bring on a recurrence of the infection
• No scarring may be present on the cornea to be considered for LASIK
• Candidates must understand the risks of LASIK surgery and have realistic expectations regarding the results that can be achieved
• A LASIK candidate may not be nursing or pregnant on the date of surgery
• Individuals with dry eye syndrome are not good LASIK candidates
• Individuals with pupils that dilate beyond seven millimeters in the dark are not good candidates for LASIK

Evaluation with an Ophthalmologist

You should meet with an experienced ophthalmologist to find out if you are a LASIK candidate if you suffer from vision impairment and are considering refractive surgery. During your initial examination, the ophthalmologist will check your eyes and review your medical history. The ophthalmologist can also discuss your LASIK options, including Wavefront^TM-guided custom LASIK and bladeless LASIK with the Intralase® laser. Understanding the risks and benefits of the various treatment options can allow you to make an informed decision regarding your vision. Though LASIK cost is often one of the primary factors that potential patients consider before deciding upon treatment, the experience and qualifications, as well as effectiveness of treatment, should carry equal or greater weight.

If it is determined that you meet the requirements of LASIK and are a good candidate for this effective and safe procedure, laser eye surgery preparation will begin. The ophthalmologist will examine your eyes, measuring such factors as the amount of refractive error and corneal thickness. A separate appointment for surgery will then be made.

Find an Ophthalmologist with DocShop

When considering LASIK laser vision correction, it is important that you find a dedicated specialist who can provide you with safe laser eye surgery. If you think you are a good LASIK candidate, find an experienced ophthalmologist in your area today through DocShop to see if LASIK is right for you.