What is LASIK?
When it comes to vision correction, LASIK is a widely sought after procedure. LASIK is laser eye corrective surgery for patients with myopia, hyperopia, or astigmatism. These conditions are also known as refractive errors, such as nearsightedness or farsightedness. People with vision problems finally have a solution, but who qualifies for refractive surgery? While age can mark a milestone for reaching adulthood, it may also play a factor in being an ideal candidate for LASIK.
Is LASIK Recommended for Young Adults?
LASIK eye surgery is approved in the United States by the FDA for anyone over the age of 18, but that does not mean it is always the best choice. Young adults between the ages of 18 and 24 are still maturing and may experience eyesight changes for several years. Ophthalmologists recommend waiting until your eyesight stabilizes to ensure the eyes are ready for corrective surgery. Generally, this means having a glasses prescription that doesn’t change dramatically for one year.
Although many ophthalmologists prefer that patients wait until they have reached full maturity, there are some exceptions. A specific career choice or lifestyle may qualify an individual for LASIK at a younger age. For example, those involved in the military, police force, aviation, or professional athletics are often encouraged to have LASIK surgery. In such demanding fields of work, having good eyesight is essential. At New Vision Eye Center, Dr. David O’Brien recommends a surface treatment known as AST over the traditional LASIK procedure for individuals in these types of careers.
What is the Recommended Age for LASIK?
An ideal age to undergo a LASIK procedure is between 25 and 40 years of age. In many cases, by the time a patient reaches 25, his or her eyes should be fully matured and ready for a LASIK procedure. Patients who are eligible for this operation can embrace the opportunity for better eyesight in the future.
Is it Possible to be Too Old for LASIK?
While there is technically no upper age limit for LASIK, doctors may not always recommend the procedure for older patients. Having a clear history of eye health is an essential factor. As individuals age, the chances of other underlying eye conditions increase. Cataracts, macular degeneration, and dry eyes can disqualify a patient for refractive surgery. Another issue that tends to come up with older patients is other age-related medical conditions that may require medications that could interfere with the visual results achieved with the procedure, making LASIK not a good value for the patient.
Ultimately, the decision to undergo LASIK laser vision correction is between a patient and their doctor. The only way to know if you qualify for LASIK is to visit your local ophthalmologist. At New Vision Eye Center, the procedure will be performed by board certified, fellowship trained refractive surgeon, David J. O’Brien, MD. Dr. O’Brien has been performing LASIK in Vero Beach since 1997, having been an FDA investigator for LASIK to be approved in the United States. Since that time, he as performed over 11,000 cases.
For world-class eye care, contact laser vision correction surgeons with over 11,000 procedures performed. You can trust New Vision Eye Center to take care of your vision. Contact our office to learn more about LASIK.