Are You a Good LASIK Candidate?
LASIK is a surgical procedure that has helped millions achieve better vision. If you suffer from nearsightedness, farsightedness or astigmatism, LASIK may reduce your dependence on corrective eyewear — in some cases eliminate it altogether.
All patients are required to undergo a pre-operative LASIK screening before surgery. The LASIK surgeon will evaluate your overall medical history, as well as the condition of your eyes. LASIK is generally not appropriate for individuals with large pupils or thin corneas. Patients with eye conditions that hinder the recovery process may be disqualified from LASIK at our Bergen County practice. The surgery is generally not suitable for patients with glaucoma, ocular herpes, cataracts and Keratonocus.
Instances of refractive instability may facilitate the need to postpone LASIK surgery. Refractive instability is common among women who are breastfeeding or pregnant, people with Diabetes or individuals under age 18 years old. In fact, you must be at least 18 to qualify for LASIK. If you have experienced vision changes within the past year, discuss LASIK alternatives with your doctor until vision has stabilized.
The doctor will make an assessment on any health condition that may compromise your ability to heal after LASIK surgery. Patients with Diabetes, Rheumatoid Arthritis, HIV and Lupus may pose additional risks during post-operative recovery. Remember to discuss all medications with your doctor, as a number of them can affect the immune system, as well as vision stability.
A healthy individual with realistic expectations about the surgical outcome is an ideal candidate for LASIK. While LASIK has an impressive success rate (90 percent for 20/40 vision or better, according to the Quality Standards Advisory Committee), results are not guaranteed and may not last.
If for some reason your doctor determines you are not a traditional LASIK or custom LASIK candidate, you will be pleased to know that there are many other laser and surgical procedures to investigate. Your eye care physician will no doubt be able to recommend an alternative. If you are not satisfied with this diagnosis, however, it is your absolute your right to seek a second opinion and thereby validate your official LASIK candidacy.