There are many different options to consider when it comes to advanced eye care treatment. These different solutions for vision correction can help you see clearly and maintain excellent eye health for years to come.
One of the most popular options for advanced eye care treatment is LASIK. We’d like to take a few moments right now to go over some of the basics when it comes to LASIK candidacy.
Vision Problems That LASIK Can Address
LASIK is ideal for treating refractive errors, all of which have to do with corneal imperfections that affect the way the light focuses on the retina. You will likely know refractive errors by the following names:
- Nearsightedness (Myopia) – Nearsightedness refers to cases in which it is easier to see objects that are nearby whereas distant objects appear blurry by comparison.
- Farsightedness (Hyperopia) – Farsightedness refers to cases in which it is easier to see objects that are at a distance whereas nearby objects appear blurry by comparison.
- Astigmatism – Astigmatism is a general blurring of the vision that occurs due to irregular cornea shape. It often accompanies nearsightedness and farsightedness.
Basic Requirements for LASIK
In order for people to qualify for laser eye surgery, your LASIK surgeon will require that you meet the following criteria:
- Be at least 18 years old
- Have a stable prescription for at least a year
- Be in good general health
- Have healthy corneas
Ideal Candidates for LASIK
Ideal candidates for LASIK surgery will be people who understand the risks and benefits of the surgical process and have realistic expectations about the surgery and what it can achieve.
Poor Candidates for LASIK
Poor candidates for LASIK are people who are:
- Under the age of 18
- Are pregnant or nursing
- Suffer from dry eye syndrome
- Have thin or irregularly shaped corneas
Alternatives to LASIK Surgery
If you are not a good candidate for LASIK surgery, there are some refractive surgery alternatives to consider that may be helpful. These include treatments such as PRK, LASEK, and CK. Your candidacy for these procedures will similarly depend on your age, your eye health, and other health matters. These can be discussed in greater detail during your consultation.
If you do not qualify for any surgical treatments for enhancing your vision, there are non-surgical vision correction options to consider as well. We can help you pick the best corrective prescription lenses for your needs.
Becoming a Candidate for LASIK at a Later Time
It is possible for people who are not currently candidates for LASIK to become good candidates for the procedure later in life. The age and prescription requirements still stand, obviously, but women can undergo LASIK about two or three months after they have finished nursing. We will be more than happy to go over the potential of LASIK in the future as an option when you stop by for a visit.
Learn More About Advanced Eye Care Treatment
For more information about LASIK surgery and your many other options for advanced vision correction, be sure to contact our Austin eye care clinic today. The entire team here looks forward to meeting you in person and helping you achieve the best possible vision.