LASIK eye surgery is a popular solution for people looking to correct their vision and get rid of glasses or contacts. However, not everyone is eligible for the procedure. In this blog, we’ll go over the basics of LASIK and what you need to know to determine if you’re a good candidate.

Understanding the Eligibility Criteria

Stable Prescription

To be considered a good candidate for LASIK, you need to meet certain requirements. The first and most important requirement is that you need to be over 18 years old. This is because your eyes are still changing and growing before this age, and it's important to allow enough time for the eye to stabilize. Your eye prescription must also be stable for at least a year before undergoing LASIK surgery. This is important to make sure that your vision remains stable after the procedure.

Sufficient Tissue

One of the biggest factors in determining if you’re a good candidate for LASIK is having enough tissue in your cornea. We will measure your cornea to ensure that you have enough tissue remaining after the procedure to keep your eyes healthy and functioning properly. Having a thicker cornea also reduces the risk of complications during and after the procedure.

Healthy Ocular Surface

Another factor to consider when determining if you’re a good candidate for LASIK is the health of your ocular surface. We will examine your eyes to make sure they are free of any diseases or conditions that could affect the outcome of the procedure. For example, if you have dry eye syndrome or other eye diseases, they may recommend waiting until the condition is treated before undergoing LASIK.

Alternatives to LASIK

As an optometrist, it's important to provide our patients with all the information they need to make informed decisions about their eye health. While LASIK is a popular and effective procedure for many people, it may not be the best option for everyone. That's why it's important to understand the alternatives that are available, and what criteria you need to meet in order to be considered a good candidate.

During an eye exam, we'll go over some of the most common alternative procedures to LASIK, including PRK, SMILE ICL, and others. We'll also explain what sets these procedures apart from LASIK, and what you can expect in terms of outcomes and recovery time. With the right information, you'll be able to make the best decision for your vision and your long-term eye health. Learn more about alternatives to LASIK.

Schedule a Consultation for LASIK Near You

If you’re interested in LASIK eye surgery and want to learn more, schedule a consultation at an Amplify EyeCare practice today. During the consultation, we will perform a comprehensive examination of your eyes, measure your cornea, and check for any underlying conditions that could affect the outcome of the procedure. We will also discuss your expectations and goals for the procedure, and answer any questions you may have. We will answer any questions you may have and help you determine if you’re a good candidate for the procedure. We will also discuss the different options available to you, and if you have decided on surgery we can provide referrals to experienced LASIK surgeons near you. We are here to help you make an informed decision about the best solution for your vision.