Laser-Assisted In Situ Keratomileusis, commonly known as LASIK, is a surgical procedure correcting common vision problems like nearsightedness, farsightedness, and astigmatism. This procedure reshapes the cornea to improve how light focuses on the retina, often reducing or eliminating the need for glasses or contact lenses. While LASIK offers significant benefits for many, it is not universally suitable. A thorough evaluation of eye health, overall well-being, and other factors determines candidacy, ensuring safety and successful outcomes.
Eye Health Considerations
The health and structure of the eyes are determinants of LASIK eligibility. Adequate corneal thickness is required, as the procedure involves creating a thin flap and reshaping the underlying corneal tissue with a laser. If the cornea is too thin or has an irregular shape, LASIK may not be safe, as it could compromise structural integrity and lead to complications like corneal ectasia. Conditions like keratoconus, where the cornea thins and bulges into a cone shape, are contraindications because LASIK would further weaken an already compromised cornea.
Severe dry eye syndrome can disqualify candidates, as LASIK may exacerbate symptoms by temporarily disrupting corneal nerves, which play a role in tear production. While many cases can be managed, severe and uncontrolled forms may lead to discomfort and impaired healing. Individuals with uncontrolled glaucoma, characterized by increased eye pressure damaging the optic nerve, are not candidates for LASIK, as the procedure can interfere with management or worsen the condition.
Advanced cataracts, which cloud the eye’s natural lens, also preclude LASIK candidacy since the procedure does not address lens-related vision impairment. Other active eye diseases or infections, such as conjunctivitis or uveitis, or certain retinal problems must be resolved or stable before LASIK can be considered. Performing surgery on an infected or inflamed eye increases complication risks and can lead to poor outcomes.
Overall Health and Lifestyle Factors
Beyond specific eye conditions, an individual’s general health and certain lifestyle factors can influence LASIK eligibility. Systemic autoimmune diseases, including lupus or rheumatoid arthritis, can affect healing and increase complication risks like corneal melting or poor wound healing. While some patients with well-controlled autoimmune conditions might be considered, the decision requires careful evaluation.
Uncontrolled diabetes presents a concern, as it can impair the body’s ability to heal and may lead to eye complications like diabetic retinopathy, which affects the retina. For LASIK, diabetes must be well-managed with stable blood sugar levels. Certain medications, such as isotretinoin (used for acne) or immunosuppressants, can also impact eye healing or cause severe dry eyes, making LASIK unsuitable while on these treatments.
A stable vision prescription is required for predictable LASIK outcomes. The prescription should not have significantly changed for at least one to two years. Fluctuating vision, common in younger individuals whose eyes are still developing, means the visual correction may not be long-lasting. While the FDA approves LASIK for individuals aged 18 and older, many eye care professionals recommend waiting until the mid-20s when vision is more likely to have stabilized.
Conditions Leading to Temporary Disqualification
Some situations may temporarily preclude an individual from undergoing LASIK, with eligibility potentially changing once the condition resolves. Pregnancy and breastfeeding are common temporary disqualifiers due to hormonal fluctuations that can cause vision changes and affect the eye’s healing capacity. It is advised to postpone LASIK until several months after breastfeeding has concluded and vision has returned to a stable state.
Active eye infections or ocular inflammation must be resolved before surgery. Operating on an eye with an active infection significantly raises the risk of serious post-operative complications. Similarly, if an individual’s vision prescription has recently undergone significant changes, a waiting period is necessary to ensure stability. This allows the eye to settle and provides the surgeon with accurate measurements for a precise and effective correction.