If you’ve been considering LASIK to free yourself from glasses and contacts, one of the first questions you might ask is: Am I a good candidate? At Accuvision LASIK in Charlotte, our team, led by Dr. Bill Hammonds, the Official LASIK provider for the Carolina Panthers and Charlotte Hornets, carefully evaluates each patient to ensure the safest and most successful outcomes.
While LASIK has helped millions achieve clear vision, not everyone is an ideal candidate. Below are the main factors that determine eligibility.
1. Healthy Eyes
Your eyes need to be in good condition before undergoing LASIK. Issues like eye infections, conjunctivitis, or corneal injuries may disqualify you until they’re resolved. Other eye conditions, like cataracts or glaucoma, may also make LASIK less suitable.
2. Adequate Corneal Thickness
LASIK works by reshaping the cornea. If your corneas are too thin or irregularly shaped, the procedure may not be safe. However, today’s advanced Alcon Wavelight® technology and femtosecond lasers have expanded candidacy for many patients who were previously told “no.”
3. Reasonable Prescription Range
LASIK is most effective for patients with mild to moderate prescriptions. Very high prescriptions may not achieve predictable results and can involve removing too much corneal tissue.
4. Age Requirements
Patients should be at least 18 years old with a stable prescription.
5. Stable Vision
Your prescription should be stable for at least a year. Younger patients, whose prescriptions are still changing, are usually advised to wait until their vision has settled.
6. Overall Health
Certain medical conditions, such as rheumatoid arthritis, uncontrolled diabetes, or immune system disorders can interfere with healing. Some medications, particularly immunosuppressants, may also affect candidacy.
Take the First Step Toward Clear Vision
These guidelines provide a general idea of who may qualify for LASIK, but the best way to know for sure is to schedule a free consultation at Accuvision LASIK in Charlotte. Our team will perform a thorough exam, discuss your vision goals, and determine the safest and most effective treatment plan for you.
Ready to find out if you’re a candidate? Call us today or visit AccuvisionLASIK.com to schedule your free consultation with our expert team.