Lasik

LASIK Eye Surgery: Who Is Eligible and Who May Not Be Suitable?

For people who have worn glasses or contact lenses for years, LASIK can be an appealing vision-correction option. But an important point is often overlooked: LASIK is not automatically suitable for everyone who wears glasses. A detailed eye evaluation is necessary before deciding whether LASIK or another vision-correction option is appropriate.

By Dr. Amit N. Solanki, Shanti Eye Tech15 August 20263 min read
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What Is LASIK?

LASIK is a laser vision-correction procedure that reshapes the cornea to correct refractive errors such as myopia, hyperopia and astigmatism.

The aim is to reduce dependence on glasses or contact lenses.

Who May Be Considered for LASIK?

  1. 1
    Age

    Candidates should have reached an appropriate age for refractive surgery and have sufficiently stable eye development.

  2. 2
    Stable Spectacle Prescription

    Frequent changes in spectacle power may indicate that the prescription has not stabilised sufficiently for a refractive procedure.

  3. 3
    Corneal Health

    The shape and thickness of the cornea are important considerations. Detailed corneal measurements are therefore part of refractive-surgery assessment.

  4. 4
    Overall Eye Health

    Conditions affecting the cornea, retina, optic nerve or other parts of the eye may influence whether LASIK is appropriate.

  5. 5
    General Health

    Certain medical conditions, medications and other individual factors may also influence treatment suitability.

Who May Not Be Suitable for Standard LASIK?

LASIK may not be recommended for some patients with unsuitable corneal characteristics, unstable refractive power or certain eye or health conditions.

For example, people with keratoconus generally require a different approach because the cornea is already structurally abnormal.

Being unsuitable for LASIK does not necessarily mean that there are no other vision-correction options.

Are There Alternatives to LASIK?

Yes.

Depending on the patient’s eyes and refractive requirements, other options may be considered.

Shanti EyeTech’s Freedom From Glasses services include LASIK, PRK, SMILE, implantable collamer lenses (ICL), refractive lens exchange and other vision-correction approaches.

The appropriate option can only be determined after an eye evaluation.

Why Is a Pre-LASIK Evaluation Important?

Two people with the same spectacle power may have very different corneal thickness, shape, eye health and visual requirements.

A detailed evaluation helps the ophthalmologist determine:

  • Whether refractive surgery is appropriate

  • Whether the cornea is suitable

  • Which procedure may be considered

  • Whether another approach would be safer or more appropriate

“Dr. Amit Solanki has been dedicated to the field of ophthalmology since 2003, amassing over 20 years of invaluable experience. He embarked on his journey by completing his undergraduate training (MBBS) followed by further postgraduate studies (MS) at the esteemed B.J. Medical College in Ahmedabad, Gujarat.”
Dr. Amit Solanki
Dr. Amit SolankiCataract, Glaucoma & Refractive Surgeon.

The information is for educational purposes and does not replace professional medical advice, diagnosis or treatment.

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