If you’ve ever dreamt of waking up and instantly seeing the world in glorious high definition, without patting your bedside table for those elusive glasses, LASIK might sound like the fairy godmother you never had. But like any good story, only some characters are eligible for this particular journey.
Let’s see what makes someone an ideal candidate, what the journey involves, LASIK benefits and risks, and how to know if it’s time to give your spectacles a well-deserved retirement.
- You’re Old Enough and Your Vision Has Matured
Think of LASIK as a commitment, much like getting a tattoo. You shouldn’t do it too young. You must be at least 18, but doctors generally prefer people 21 years or older. Why? Because your vision should be steady. If your prescription still changes every few months, your eyes are basically saying, “Not yet, I’m still evolving!”
- Your Prescription Has Been Loyal (i.e., Stable)
One of the big requirements for LASIK is refractive stability. A stable prescription for at least one year is ideal. If your eyeglass power has been on a roller coaster ride, LASIK may need to wait. This stability ensures that the results last and you don’t end up needing changes soon after surgery.
- Your Eye Health Gets a Thumbs-Up
LASIK doesn’t require “perfect” eyes. But they do need to be healthy. Conditions like glaucoma, keratoconus, uncontrolled dry eye, or corneal scarring might put you in the “not right now” category.
If you are in a constant fight with dry eyes, LASIK may exacerbate the problem (no one wants to feel like they’ve sandpapered their eyeballs). The doctor will measure eye pressure, tear production, corneal shape, and overall eye health during your LASIK screening.
- Your Corneas Are the Right Thickness
Corneal thickness matters. As LASIK sculpts your cornea with a laser, there has to be enough tissue for it to work on. Thin corneas may put you at risk for complications in the future.
- Your Health Supports Good Healing
Some medical conditions affect how well your eyes heal, and LASIK depends on healthy recovery. You’re probably not the best candidate if:
- You have autoimmune conditions
- You’re dealing with uncontrolled diabetes
- You take medicines that inhibit healing (such as steroids)
While this doesn’t automatically disqualify you, it does require extra care.
- You’re Not Pregnant
Pregnancy: the magical time when your hormones do everything except behave. Vision can subtly shift during pregnancy and breastfeeding, meaning it’s not the best time for LASIK. Once your hormones stabilise, your eye prescription generally returns to normal, making the results more predictable.
- Your Lifestyle Isn’t Worrisome
Activities such as boxing, wrestling, and martial arts might endanger your eyes. If you are exposed to eye hazards on the job, or as part of a hobby, your doctor will take this into account.
- Your Hopes Are Grounded
LASIK is likely to give you brilliant vision, but it cannot guarantee eagle-like sight. You may still require glasses for reading once you reach a certain age. Some people need a touch-up years later, especially if their vision naturally changes.
But overall, most LASIK patients enjoy life with far clearer, freer vision, and a lot less fumbling for spectacles in dark rooms.
- You’re Interested In How LASIK Works
LASIK involves using a laser to reshape your cornea so that light is properly focused on the retina. It is an intricate, subtle and exacting process.
- You’ll be awake (but the eye is numbed).
- The laser itself works in seconds.
- The entire procedure usually takes around 15 minutes per eye.
- You go home the same day, with a stylish protective shield on your eyes.
- You’re Prepared for a Quick, Comfortable Recovery
One of the loveliest things about LASIK recovery time is the speed. Many people see better within hours. Most return to daily activities within a day or two. Eye drops are a must during healing.
Conclusion: Ready for LASIK? Vasan Eye Care is Ready for You
If performed safely and thoughtfully, LASIK should be a life changing experience. At Vasan Eye Care, our experienced surgeons will work with you every step of the way, from your initial consultation, to follow-up visits after surgery. With over 150 centres covering all of South India, you’re never too far from the best in eyecare and feel-good assistance.
Clearer vision is closer than you think.
FAQs
- Does LASIK correct nearsightedness, farsightedness, and astigmatism?
Yes, all three eye errors can be corrected with LASIK!
- How safe is LASIK surgery?
Very safe in the hands of trained surgeons. As with any procedure, there are risks, but major complications are rare.
- How does LASIK recovery feel?
Mostly mild, like you’ve been in a slightly windy place. Scratchiness and dryness are normal at first.
- Can I drive the next day?
Most people can! Your doctor will give you the all-clear after checking your vision.