What appeals to you most about LASIK? Is it the incredible success rate?
Over 96% of LASIK patients report satisfaction with the procedure and their results. Is it the simplicity and speed of the operation itself?
LASIK only takes about a half-hour to complete (not including prep and rest time), and you get to leave the same day. Is it the incredible benefit that a glasses-free lifestyle can offer?
No glasses means less stress and more freedom in your everyday life. Whatever your reasons are, it is no wonder why LASIK is so popular.
But LASIK is not for everyone, and it’s not because it’s an exclusive club. To ensure the safety of the patients, you must be a good candidate for the procedure. Keep reading for the 5 signs you may be a good candidate for LASIK!
1. You Are Old Enough
Age matters when it comes to LASIK. The FDA legally requires that you must be at least 18 years old to undergo LASIK. Many surgeons prefer patients to be in their mid to late twenties.
This is to ensure your eyes have stopped changing and are stable. Our eyes continue to develop until we are well into adulthood.
LASIK is pointless if you get it and then your vision changes again. LASIK is only meant to be a permanent procedure.
2. Your Eyesight is Stable
Even if you are old enough, your eyesight can still be unstable due to any number of factors. If your prescription is not the same for a full year, then you will not be able to receive LASIK.
This is to prevent a correction from happening during a volatile period in your vision. If stable vision is the only thing standing in your way, you can wait until your eyesight stabilizes.
3. Your Corneas Are Not Thin
Vision correction requires removing some corneal tissue. If there is not enough tissue to work with, it could lead to dangerous complications.
But if you have thin corneas and still want good eyesight, you may qualify for other procedures like PRK or refractive lens exchange. Ask about your options at Westlake Eye Specialists in Austin, TX!
4. You Are in Good Health
Recovering from LASIK is not difficult to do, but certain issues with your health may make it harder. It will be more difficult to heal from LASIK if you have any autoimmune disorders.
This includes conditions like HIV/AIDS, diabetes, or Sjogren’s syndrome. Talk to your general practitioner as well as your eye doctor to find out what is safe for you.
5. You Have the Right Expectations
LASIK is an extraordinary procedure. It is considered to be very safe and effective for good candidates, but it is not a guarantee.
Although it’s unlikely, you may still need to wear glasses after having LASIK. It’s important to have realistic expectations before you have a procedure like LASIK.
You will also need to be able and willing to listen to all your surgeon’s instructions. This includes instructions for before and after having LASIK.
Think that LASIK could be right for you? Schedule a LASIK consultation at Westlake Eye Specialists in Austin, TX to find out more about this life-changing procedure!
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