Are You Too Young or Too Old for LASIK?
Good vision doesn’t have an age limit, but unfortunately, LASIK can. Are you too young or too old for LASIK? Find out below!
Am I Too Young for LASIK?
Do you have a child that is constantly losing or breaking their glasses? Are you a teen that’s tired of wearing contacts? LASIK seems like the perfect solution for childhood eye problems. Adults don’t like hassling with glasses, why should children? Unfortunately, if you’re under 18, you’ll likely have to wait for LASIK surgery.
LASIK is FDA-approved for patients that are 18 or older. Vision changes throughout childhood and it is best to wait for the procedure. If you’re over 18, come see us to learn more about your LASIK options. Many adults, even young ones, are good candidates for the procedure.
If you’re hoping for LASIK in your late teens or early 20s, wait until your prescription has stabilized. Many patients choose to wait until they are in their mid-20s. We can perform LASIK sooner if your eyes are ready and you’re over 18.
The Perfect Time for LASIK
Once you’ve reached adulthood and have a stable prescription, you’re likely a good candidate for LASIK. Come into Will Vision and Laser Centers to explore your options and find out if you’re ready for surgery. Our LASIK patients vary in age, but are commonly in their 20s, 30s, and 40s.
If you’re interested in LASIK, come in and learn more. Don’t wait. There are many benefits to getting LASIK surgery sooner.
- Enjoy Your Results Longer- Many of our LASIK patients will enjoy better vision for life. Get LASIK in your 20s and you’ll enjoy 20 years more of better vision than LASIK patients in their 40s.
- Better Return on Investment- LASIK is an investment, one that becomes more valuable with time. At first, you’ll spend more on LASIK than you’ll save, but over time glasses and contact expenses add up. Get LASIK sooner and you’ll get more for your money.
Are you ready for better vision? Learn more about LASIK.
Am I Too Old for LASIK?
Vision starts to change in the 40s. Many of our patients complain that they can no longer see up-close. Reading a magazine or using a computer can become more difficult. These changes are caused by presbyopia. This condition eventually affects everyone, even those with perfect vision in their younger years.
Presbyopia occurs because of changes in the flexibility of the lens. This condition will continue to progress as the lens becomes stiffer. At first, vision correction isn’t needed, but eventually you may need reading glasses, a corneal inlay, Lifestyle LASIK, or a monovision treatment. We can treat presbyopia alone or in conjunction with LASIK surgery.
The eyes continue to change as you age. Older patients are more likely to develop cataracts, macular degeneration, glaucoma, and other vision problems. There is no set age where a patient becomes too old for LASIK, but health changes may disqualify you from the surgery at some point. LASIK can be successfully performed on patients in their 60s and 70s, provided that you’re healthy and a good candidate for the procedure.
Age Isn’t the Only Factor for Determining LASIK Eligibility
When it comes to LASIK candidacy, age is just a number. Once you’re old enough for LASIK, we worry more about your health than your age. Here are some factors that can complicate LASIK or may disqualify a patient.
- Pregnant or Nursing- Hormonal changes during pregnancy and breastfeeding can affect vision. You’ll need to wait for LASIK if you’re pregnant or nursing.
- Corneal Quality- LASIK reshapes the cornea. To do this effectively, the cornea must have sufficient thickness and quality. Corneal scarring may also affect your ability to have LASIK. If you have thin corneas or scarring from past procedures, we may be able to improve your vision using another procedure.
- Diabetes- Diabetes and diabetic retinopathy can disqualify a patient from LASIK. If you have diabetes, talk with us to find out if LASIK is still an option.
- Medications- Some medications aren’t compatible with LASIK. Bring a list of any medications and supplements you’re taking when you come in for your LASIK consultation.
- Certain Vision Problems- Cataracts, glaucoma, retinal detachment, dry eyes, and other eye problems can affect LASIK results. We’ll discuss your eye health in depth to ensure you’re a good candidate before surgery.
- Medical Conditions- Your overall physical health can impact LASIK results. We’ll discuss your health and any medical conditions you have.
These won’t necessarily disqualify a patient from LASIK, but they may. Come in for a consultation and we’ll help you determine if you’re a good candidate.
Whatever Your Age, Choose Will Vision and Laser Centers for Your LASIK Procedure
Young, old, or in between, we love helping patients discover their best vision through LASIK and other vision procedures. Call today!