LASIK (Laser-Assisted In Situ Keratomileusis) is a widely performed surgical procedure designed to correct common vision problems such as nearsightedness, farsightedness, and astigmatism. This elective surgery uses an excimer laser to precisely reshape the cornea, allowing light to focus correctly onto the retina. It has become a popular alternative to wearing corrective lenses, yet many eye care professionals still wear glasses. This leads to the misconception that doctors who recommend the procedure distrust its long-term safety, requiring a closer look at the actual data and candidacy requirements.
The Reality: Do Eye Doctors Really Avoid LASIK?
The suggestion that eye doctors uniformly avoid LASIK is largely a misconception that does not align with professional surveys. Studies focusing on refractive ophthalmologists—the surgeons who specialize in these procedures—show that a significant percentage have undergone laser vision correction themselves. Professional polls indicate that the rate of ophthalmologists who have had LASIK or a similar procedure ranges from approximately 25% to over 40%.
These rates are often higher than the procedure’s uptake in the general population, indicating confidence among those who know the technology best. Nearly 90% of refractive surgeons also report recommending the procedure to a family member. The decision to pursue or forgo surgery is ultimately a personal one based on individual candidacy and preference, not a universal indictment of the procedure’s safety.
Non-Medical Reasons for Professional Caution
Even for an eye doctor who is a good medical candidate, the decision to undergo LASIK is a personal choice influenced by lifestyle and professional risk assessment. Many professionals find their current correction, whether glasses or contact lenses, satisfactory and integrated into their daily routine. If a doctor has only a mild refractive error, they may see no need to undergo an elective surgery.
The primary concern is accepting a small risk in an otherwise healthy eye. While the complication rate for LASIK is very low, any surgical procedure carries some risk, such as the potential for post-operative dry eye. Since an ophthalmologist’s career depends on perfect visual acuity, even a small chance of a negative outcome can be perceived as too great a gamble when they are already functioning well with glasses.
Another factor is the necessary recovery period, which can be inconvenient for busy medical practitioners. The time required for post-operative healing and follow-up appointments must be weighed against their demanding schedules. Some professionals also maintain that wearing glasses or contacts allows them to better appreciate the patient experience, which informs their counseling and patient care.
Universal Contraindications: When LASIK Is Not Recommended
The most frequent reason an eye doctor—or any patient—does not receive LASIK is not preference, but failure to meet strict medical criteria, known as contraindications. The procedure requires sufficient corneal tissue; a cornea that is too thin cannot be safely reshaped without risking structural instability. This lack of adequate thickness is a common exclusion factor, as the remaining corneal bed must be strong enough to withstand normal eye pressure after tissue removal.
Corneal irregularities, such as the progressive thinning disorder keratoconus, are contraindications for LASIK. Applying the laser to an already weakened cornea can accelerate the disease and lead to severe vision loss. Individuals with high or unstable prescriptions, such as nearsightedness exceeding -10 diopters, are often poor candidates because the required amount of tissue removal would be excessive.
Systemic health conditions can also impede the necessary healing process. Active autoimmune diseases, including rheumatoid arthritis and lupus, are contraindications because they compromise the body’s ability to repair corneal tissue. Pre-existing severe dry eye syndrome is also a concern, as the procedure temporarily disrupts corneal nerves, potentially worsening symptoms and leading to discomfort.
Temporary contraindications include pregnancy or nursing, where hormonal fluctuations cause unstable vision. The use of certain medications like isotretinoin is also a factor, as it can severely impact eye moisture and healing.