LASIK eye surgery is a procedure that corrects refractive errors in the eye. It can benefit those who suffer from nearsightedness, farsightedness, and astigmatism. The procedure is a quick and effective way to improve your vision without glasses or contacts. Age is a key factor in determining the safety and efficacy of the procedure for each patient.
Age Restriction for LASIK Eye Surgery
Doctors recommend that patients be at least 18 before getting LASIK eye surgery. This age requirement is in place to make sure your eyes are fully developed and finished growing before surgery. Your doctor will check the size and shape of your cornea and the overall health of your eyes before scheduling your surgery. If you are younger than 18, your eyes’ vision, shape, and size may still be changing, and the surgery results could be impacted.
Individuals Between 18 and 25 Years
While the FDA approves LASIK surgery for those who are 18 and above, it is recommended that patients wait until they are at least 24 years old. Confirm that your glasses prescription has been stable for at least a year before considering LASIK. Exceptions may be made for those in law enforcement and the military, and professional athletes. Consult a qualified eye surgeon to determine if you are a good candidate for LASIK surgery.
Individuals Between 25 and 40
Individuals between the ages of 25 and 40 are the ideal candidates for LASIK surgery because their eyes have fully developed. If you fit into this age range, you may have yet to reach the age where you have difficulty focusing on near objects or small print. You will only need surgery for single-focus vision instead of multi-focal. By age 25, your glasses and contact lenses prescription should have stabilized, giving you an even better chance of having a successful surgery.
Individuals Between 40 and 55
Between the ages of 40 and 55, you might experience the onset of presbyopia. This condition makes it more challenging to focus on things up close. Multi-focal LASIK surgery can correct distance and up-close vision. If you have a clean medical record and don’t have a smoking history, you have a higher chance of being considered for LASIK surgery. Patients in this age group can have eye conditions like corneal disorders, diabetes, or glaucoma. These conditions can affect eyesight and are not typically treated with LASIK surgery.
Individuals Above 55
LASIK eye surgery is available to seniors, but eligibility is determined on a case-by-case basis. Eye conditions, such as cataracts, must be addressed before LASIK surgery. Your surgeon will evaluate your medical history and drug use during your consultation. Your eye specialist can also assess pre-existing conditions, such as diabetes or high blood pressure. A family history of eye and systemic eye disease, such as dry eye syndrome, should also be considered before surgery.
Improve Your Vision With LASIK Eye Surgery
LASIK surgery is an effective and minimally invasive way to improve vision. The procedure is generally recommended for those over 18 with stable vision prescriptions. LASIK surgery can help young and middle-aged individuals eliminate their need for glasses or bifocals. LASIK can also treat presbyopia and cataracts among seniors. Consult an experienced ophthalmologist to determine if you are a good candidate for LASIK.