Medically Reviewed by: Edward C. Wade, M.D., F.A.C.S.
Why LASIK Eye Surgery is Not for Everyone
Commercials for LASIK eye surgery promise that LASIK is “quick and painless,” and that you’ll “never wear glasses again.” Caught up in the dream of forever eradicating our need for eyewear, we may not pay too much attention when the ad goes on to say “talk to your doctor to find out if LASIK is right for you.” Although LASIK is very common, there are a few medical reasons why LASIK eye surgery is not for everyone. Here are some common reasons.
Age and LASIK Eye Surgery Candidacy
If you are under the age of 18, most doctors would not consider you a good candidate for Lasik, because individuals under 18 can still experience significant changes to their prescription which could undo the effects of LASIK eye surgery.
On the other hand, there is no specific age at which you are too old to receive LASIK; depending on your ocular health, you can have your vision corrected through LASIK at any age over 18. That said, if your eyes suffer from complications such as macular degeneration and cataracts, LASIK eye surgery could harm your eyes and worsen their condition. Patients with these conditions are, therefore, often disqualified as LASIK candidates.
Pupil Size and LASIK Candidacy
Pupils are the part of your eye that absorb light and make it possible for you to see. Having large pupils might not seem like a huge deal, but it is a very important factor in determining your LASIK candidacy. People with large pupils are more likely to experience negative side-effects from LASIK eye surgery, including halos, starbursts, and glares. While these side effects may not be debilitating, having large pupils could still disqualify you as a LASIK candidate, especially if you suffer from other ocular health issues.
Corneal Structure and LASIK Candidacy
Like your pupils, your corneas are extremely important to your sight. The same way pupils can be large or small, corneas can be thick or thin. Unfortunately, people with thin corneas are at greater risk of complications from LASIK eye surgery which can disqualify them as candidates for the procedure. Corneal scarring can also disqualify you from receiving LASIK eye surgery.
Diabetes and LASIK Candidacy
Because diabetes can cause retinopathy, a condition that enlarges the pupils, people with diabetes may not be considered a good candidate for LASIK eye surgery. However, if your diabetes is well-managed and your eyes are in good health, your diabetes may not disqualify you as a LASIK candidate. It is extremely important that you consult your doctor if you have diabetes and are considering LASIK.
Unsure of Your LASIK Candidacy? Schedule a Consultation to Learn More!
If you are interested in LASIK eye surgery but are worried that certain complications could stand in your way, the doctors at Eye Center of Texas are here to help. During your consultation, we will discuss your eyes, your health, and take every step necessary to accurately determine your candidacy. It’s true, LASIK isn’t right for everybody, and if that’s the case for you, we will explore alternative treatments that will help you gain the vision you’ve always dreamt of.
Schedule your consultation today at any of our Houston offices to get started on your path to clearer vision.
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Our Locations
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455 E. Medical Center Blvd., Suite 110, Webster, TX 77598- Medical Office:
- 281-332-1397
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22215 Cypresswood Dr., Suite 116
Cypress, TX 77433- Medical Office:
- 346-537-0088
- Medical Fax:
- 346-537-0187
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6565 W. Loop S., Suite 650, Bellaire, TX 77401- Medical Office:
- 713-797-1010
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Greenhouse Medical Plaza
2051 Greenhouse Road, Suite 110
Houston, TX 77084- Medical Office:
- 346-547-7070
- Medical Fax:
- 281-214-2971
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4415 Crenshaw Road, Pasadena, TX 77504- Medical Office:
- 281-977-8800
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15200 S.W. Freeway, Suite 130, Sugar Land, TX 77478- Medical Office:
- 281-277-1010
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100 Medical Center Blvd., Suite 118
Conroe, TX 77304- Medical Office:
- 936-647-1610
- Medical Fax:
- 936-647-1620
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