Laser eye surgery utilizes lasers to reshape the cornea, correcting refractive errors that impair vision. This technology allows many individuals to see without corrective lenses. Here is what makes someone a good candidate for eye surgery:

Glasses Prescription

Doctors look for consistent glasses or contact lens prescriptions over at least one year. This shows that refractive errors causing vision problems have stabilized, reducing the likelihood of changes after laser correction. If someone’s prescription continues to fluctuate, they may be at risk for compromised results. Once vision stabilizes, the surgeon can know how much corneal reshaping is needed.

Cornea Health

Laser surgery requires healthy corneas with adequate thickness since the laser removes tiny amounts of tissue to reshape them. Those with thin, irregular, or damaged corneas may not achieve predictable results. Corneal thickness limits vary depending on the specific laser vision correction procedure. Specialists perform detailed corneal topography scans to assess thickness.

Eye Health

Healthy eyes create an optimal surgical environment. Uncontrolled conditions like cataracts, glaucoma, or retinal diseases may impact surgery results. Eye infections, inflammation, or irritation also need to be resolved before surgery. Some vision disorders limit eligibility for laser eye surgery. Surgeons conduct eye exams to rule out abnormalities that could interfere with the procedure.

Minimal Dryness

The lasers used in vision correction can temporarily increase eye dryness. During the assessment, doctors evaluate for conditions like low tear production that may worsen after surgery. If dryness is minimal, special eye drops before and after surgery help provide relief and healing. Those with severe pre-existing dry eye issues may pursue treatment first or reevaluate their candidacy.

Appropriate Age

Most eye surgery candidates are adults, as eye development and prescription changes stabilize in adulthood. Younger adults represent optimal candidates since their eyes and vision have reached maturity. Older adults may undergo laser correction unless cataracts or other age-related vision problems interfere.

Overall Health

Individuals with diabetes, autoimmune disorders, and uncontrolled high blood pressure tend to experience unpredictable healing, which impacts vision correction. Surgeons may advise anyone with such medical conditions to get them under control before eye surgery eligibility. Healthy systemic function promotes an enhanced recovery process.

Certain medications can impact candidacy for laser eye correction surgery. Oral steroids thin corneas. Some psychiatric drugs may complicate healing. Patients should disclose their medications so doctors can discuss their possible implications. Doctors may advise pausing specific medications before eye surgery to enhance eligibility.

Learn if You Are Qualified for Laser Eye Surgery

The consultation process for laser surgery involves diagnostic testing of your eyes and an assessment of your prescription, ocular health, and medical history. Your surgeon talks to you about risks and benefits tailored to your needs so you know what laser eye surgery involves. With an informed evaluation, you can find the right time for laser correction surgery and regain your vision. Permanent, quality results will depend on the procedure timing, as well as your overall health. Prioritize corneal thickness, realistic expectations, and stable refractive errors. Learn more about laser surgery today.