What Makes Someone a Good Candidate for Laser Eye Surgery?

Laser eye surgery is a procedure that aims to correct vision problems such as nearsightedness, farsightedness, and astigmatism.

This procedure uses advanced laser technology to reshape the cornea and improve vision without the need for glasses or contact lenses. Understanding whether you are a good candidate for eye surgery helps you make an informed decision about undergoing the procedure. Here are some factors that make someone a good candidate for vision correction eye surgery:

Stable Vision

Refractive eye surgery is most effective when the candidate’s vision is stable enough for accurate measurements. This indicates that the individual’s prescription has remained consistent over the past year. Vision stability allows the corrective treatment to address a consistent refractive error, leading to more predictable outcomes. Stable vision reduces the likelihood of needing enhancements or experiencing unexpected changes post-surgery. Candidates with stable vision are more likely to achieve long-term satisfaction and minimize their reliance on corrective eyewear. 

Corneal Thickness 

The cornea is the clear, dome-shaped surface covering the front of the eye. In laser eye surgery, a flap is created in the cornea’s outer layer to access and reshape the underlying tissue. Ideal candidates have sufficient corneal thickness to make this flap without compromising its structural integrity. A thin cornea reduces the amount of tissue available for reshaping. Thin corneas may also affect intraocular pressure measurements, influencing glaucoma risk assessment. A thorough pre-operation evaluation allows surgeons to assess corneal thickness, shape, curvature, and topography.  

Age Range

The FDA has approved laser eye surgery for adult patients. Eye doctors may wait to recommend laser procedures for individuals until after they’ve reached their mid-20s, as the eyes are still developing and changing. People over 60 may experience age-related vision changes that affect the stability of refractive error measurements and outcomes. Age may also affect the healing process as older individuals tend to have slower healing times. A thorough evaluation by a qualified eye doctor will help determine if an individual is within the appropriate age range for refractive eye surgery. 

Medical Conditions

Certain medical conditions may exclude individuals from being suitable candidates for laser eye surgery. These conditions include autoimmune diseases, chronic dry eye, diabetes, and glaucoma. The presence of these conditions affects the healing process and can reduce the effectiveness of the surgery. Candidates must reveal their complete medical history to their eye doctor during the evaluation process. This helps the doctor determine if the procedure will be safe for the patient. The doctor may also recommend alternative procedures or treatments based on the individual’s medical conditions. 

Pregnancy and Nursing

Pregnant women are not suitable candidates for the surgery, as hormonal changes during pregnancy may cause fluctuations in vision. These changes affect refractive error measurements and make it challenging to perform the surgery accurately. Nursing mothers are advised to wait until they have stopped breastfeeding before undergoing the procedure. This is because certain medications used during the surgery may pass through breast milk and affect the baby. Women should discuss their plans for pregnancy or nursing with their eye doctor for a proper assessment of their candidacy. The doctor may advise waiting until after pregnancy or breastfeeding to undergo the surgery to protect unborn babies and newborns. 

Eye Health

Candidates should not have significant dry eye or other eye health issues before undergoing laser surgery. Dry eye is a condition that causes discomfort and blurred vision and may interfere with post-operative healing. Environmental factors, hormonal changes, or certain medications may cause dry eyes. Regular visits to an eye doctor for routine check-ups helps potential candidates maintain good eye health and verify that any issues are addressed.

Transform Your Vision With Laser Eye Surgery

Laser eye surgery is a long-term vision correction solution for many individuals. Some of the advantages of undergoing laser surgery include improved vision without the need for glasses or contacts. This gives individuals with active lifestyles increased independence and convenience. Individuals may experience long-term savings as they no longer need to purchase new glasses and contact lenses regularly. To determine whether you are a good candidate for this surgery, schedule an assessment with a reputable eye surgeon. Openly communicate with this vision specialist about any concerns or questions you have to determine if the procedure is right for you. Contact an accredited refractive eye surgery clinic today to learn more about the procedure.

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