LASIK is one of the most exciting elective surgeries performed today. Millions of people have had their nearsightedness, farsightedness and astigmatism corrected and achieved freedom from corrective eyewear, thanks to LASIK. If you would like to be one of them, you must meet a certain set of criteria to qualify for surgery. Read on as Bay Area ophthalmologist, corneal specialist and laser eye surgeon Mark Mandel, MD, outlines the important qualities of a LASIK candidate.
Stable Vision Prescription
A stable vision prescription ensures the best chances for precise, lasting results. It is important that your vision prescription remain stable for at least a year prior to LASIK.
Good Eye Health
No reputable surgeon should perform LASIK on you if you have corneal disorders or other pre-existing conditions such as cataracts, glaucoma or keratoconus. LASIK is not recommended if you have a recent history of eye infections or ocular herpes. If you struggle with chronically dry eyes, you must vigorously treat this condition BEFORE LASIK in order to resolve the dry eye (or avoid surgery).
Adequate Corneal Thickness
In order for the procedure to safely take place, your corneas must have sufficient thickness. Prior to the laser correction, a flap is made in your outer cornea. If your corneas are too thin, you may be at risk of surgical complications. Fortunately, other options such as PRK or the intraocular contact lens (ICL) can be used in this situation.
Good General Health
Good general health and wellbeing affects the safety and success of your LASIK surgery. If you have any chronic health conditions, including an autoimmune disorder (e.g., lupus, rheumatoid arthritis), you may not be a good candidate for LASIK.
Laser eye surgery is also not recommended if you are pregnant or breastfeeding, as the hormonal changes that occur during these periods can interfere with your surgical recovery and results.
Maintain Realistic Expectations
It is important that you maintain realistic expectations of what the procedure can and cannot accomplish. For instance, the procedure can greatly reduce your dependence on glasses and contacts, but it cannot guarantee perfect vision.
Interested in Learning More?
Do you think you fit the profile of a LASIK candidate? The best way to know for sure is to schedule an exam with Mark Mandel, MD. He will evaluate your eyes thoroughly and get to know you and your medical history before determining whether LASIK is suitable for your particular needs.
To request a consultation with our laser eye surgeon, please call 510-886-3937 ext. 3 today.
