How Old Do You Have to Be to Get LASIK?
As the most popular form of laser eye surgery, LASIK is what most people think of when they consider laser vision correction. However, not everyone is an ideal LASIK candidate. This treatment can provide you with clear vision and less or no need for glasses or contact.
What is LASIK Laser Eye Surgery?
LASIK is a type of laser vision correction performed by using a laser to correct refractive errors. Refractive errors include farsightedness, nearsightedness, and astigmatism. They occur when the shape of your eye prevents light from focusing on the retina to form a clear image. LASIK changes the angle of incoming light so you see more clearly.
How Old Do You Have to Be to Get LASIK?
While LASIK is safe and effective, it is not ideal for everyone. People under the age of 18 should not have LASIK. These individuals’ eyes are still developing, and their prescriptions may be changing faster than an adult’s. If your prescription is still adjusting frequently at age 18, your eye surgeon may recommend waiting until it becomes stable.
Other criteria that affect whether you are a candidate for LASIK include:
- Healthy corneas (people with weak or abnormal corneas are not usually good candidates for LASIK but may benefit from another procedure)
- No issues with frequent dry eye symptoms
- A stable prescription for at least one year
- Reasonable goals and expectations
- Overall healthy eyes
Determining whether LASIK is right for you requires an eye exam and consultation with an ophthalmologist. Even if you are not a good candidate for LASIK, you may be a candidate for another form of vision correction that can provide excellent results.
Request a Consultation
We’d love to help you get all the information you need in order to make the best choice for your eyes. Request a consultation today! Our staff is available and happy to answer your every question.
How Does LASIK Work?
Your eyes are numbed to prevent you from feeling anything during LASIK. Your eye surgeon uses a laser to create a flap in the surface of your cornea, the clear structure at the front of your eye. Lifting the flap aside lets another laser precisely remove microscopic layers of corneal tissue until the desired shape is achieved. This reshaped cornea will focus light correctly, resulting in clearer vision.
What is Recovery Like After LASIK?
LASIK recovery is quick and generally easy. You can return to most of your usual activities, including driving, within a day or two. You will receive eye drops and should use them as instructed. Avoid activities like swimming and strenuous activities if your eye surgeon recommends it.
What Results Will I See After LASIK?
Most people can see clearly enough to drive and return to work within days. However, your vision will continue to improve over the following weeks as your cornea heals and your eyes adjust. LASIK results are long-lasting, although your vision may continue to change gradually as you age.
Take the Next Step
To learn more about LASIK, please schedule your consultation by either filling out the form on this page or by calling (780) 452-4111. We look forward to helping you!
