LASIK Eye Surgery – Ideal Refractive Surgery Candidate

LASIK eye surgery can free you from the need to wear glasses or contacts. The procedure has truly been life changing for many people. Below are the criteria of an ideal candidate.

When you visit the LASIK eye surgeon to discuss LASIK vision correction, the first appointment will consist of discussions and examinations designed to make sure that you stand a good chance of obtaining excellent results.

Because the eyes must be fully mature before LASIK is performed, the patient must be at least 18 years old. They should be in generally good health and must not have any type of autoimmune disease.

The health of the eye must also be generally good. There can be no scarring on the cornea and the patient must not have had any type of eye infections in the 12 months prior to the surgery. If the patient has had problems with very dry eyes, they do not make ideal candidates. Also, the vision should not have changed within the 12 months prior to the exam.

During the initial exam, the surgeon will also examine how wide your pupils dilate in a dark room. If they dilate beyond an acceptable number, you will not be a candidate for LASIK eye surgery.

In addition the health of the eyes and the overall health of the patient, the surgeon will also make sure that the person seeking LASIK is fully aware of the risks and has proper expectations about the surgery.

Because LASIK has become such a popular procedure, many people fail to remember that it is actually surgery and comes with the potential of serious complications.

Possible complications following surgery include infection, worsening vision, and problems with the corneal flap. Some of these complications can be corrected with additional surgery.

While it is true that such complications are rare, an ideal candidate will fully understand the risks. It is also important to have realistic expectations. While many patients do achieve 20/20 vision, some do not.

If it is determined that you are a good candidate, the surgeon will develop a surgical plan tailored to your eyes in order to give the best chance of outstanding results. Be sure to visit our LASIK practice near Portland, Oregon for a consultation.