Are You a Candidate for LASIK/LASEK?
Submitted by Dr. Vincent Basilice on August 30, 2018
Each year, thousands of individuals seeking 20/20 vision or better choose to undergo LASIK/LASEK. However, laser vision correction is not for everyone. Before recommending LASIK/LASEK, one of the board certified ophthalmologists at TOC Eye will meet with you personally to discuss your candidacy. Here, our team explain the qualities that make a good laser vision correction candidate.
Diagnosed with Nearsightedness, Farsightedness or Astigmatism
Laser vision correction is designed to address vision problems caused by lower order aberration refractive errors such as nearsightedness, farsightedness or astigmatism.
Stable Vision Prescription
Prior to undergoing LASIK/LASEK, a patient’s vision prescription must be stable for at least a year, with no significant changes. This is important because the results of LASIK/LASEK on patients with unstable vision may be somewhat unpredictable. Individuals who are younger than 18, pregnant or nursing may not have stable vision and will be advised to postpone laser vision correction.
Healthy Eyes
LASIK/LASEK candidates should have good eye health and be free of eye diseases (e.g., macular degeneration, glaucoma, cataracts, diabetic retinopathy). In addition, dry eye, pink eye and other eye conditions may affect how a patient’s eyes react to laser vision correction or their ability to heal after the procedure. Patients with eye infections or injuries will need to wait until their eyes are fully healed before undergoing LASIK/LASEK.
Good Overall Health
Candidates for LASIK/LASEK must be in good overall health. Certain health conditions can interfere with the healing process after surgery and increase the risk of post-op complications. During your pre-op consultation, our team will evaluate your full medical history, including any medications you are currently taking.
Sufficient Corneal Thickness
LASIK/LASEK improves vision by reshaping the curvature of the cornea. This involves creating a flap on the surface of the cornea to gain access to the corneal tissue. Individuals with corneas that are too thin to withstand corneal flap creation are not suitable candidates for LASIK/LASEK.
Contact TOC Eye Today
If our eye doctors determine that you are not a suitable candidate for LASIK/LASEK, we may recommend an alternative treatment. TOC Eye utilizes the most advanced diagnostic and treatment methods to determine each individual’s unique visual needs. Our goal is to provide personalized and precise treatment and care to help you see and live better. To discuss your candidacy and treatment options for crisper, clearer vision, schedule a consultation with TOC Eye. Contact one of our Long Island offices by calling 631-751-2020 or emailing us today.
