LASIK eye surgery has reduced or eliminated people’s dependence on glasses or contact lenses. But it’s not for everyone. If you’re considering this life-changing procedure, the first question to ask is: Am I a good candidate for LASIK?
Let’s explore what LASIK involves, who is eligible for LASIK, and a quick 1-minute quiz to help you determine if you might qualify.
What Is LASIK?
LASIK (Laser-Assisted In Situ Keratomileusis) is a popular and effective refractive eye surgery that corrects vision issues such as:
- Nearsightedness (Myopia)
- Farsightedness (Hyperopia)
- Astigmatism
The procedure reshapes the cornea — the clear front surface of your eye — so that light entering the eye is properly focused onto the retina. This leads to clearer vision without the need for corrective eyewear.
General Requirements for LASIK Candidates
Not everyone is eligible for LASIK. Here are the common criteria that good candidates typically meet:
1. Age Requirement
You should be at least 18 years old. Ideally, people between 20 and 40 years old tend to have the best results.
2. Stable Prescription
Your eyeglass or contact lens prescription should be stable for at least 12 months. Significant changes in your prescription suggest that your eyes are still changing, which can lead to your power changing even after the surgery.
3. Eye Health
You should be free of:
- Cataracts
- Glaucoma
- Dry eye syndrome (in moderate to severe cases)
- Keratoconus (a thinning and bulging of the cornea)
4. General Health
Autoimmune disorders, uncontrolled diabetes, or certain medications (like steroids) may interfere with healing and disqualify you.
5. Corneal Thickness
You should have adequate corneal thickness, as the procedure involves removing some corneal tissue. A thin cornea may increase the risk of complications.
6. Pregnancy and Nursing
Pregnancy and breastfeeding can temporarily change your hormone levels, which may affect your vision and healing response. It’s best to wait several months after these phases.
Take This 1-Minute LASIK Eligibility Quiz
Answer these Yes or No questions quickly to get a rough idea of whether you might be a good candidate for LASIK:
| Question | Yes | No |
|---|---|---|
| Are you 18 years of age or older? | ||
| Has your vision prescription been stable for the past 12 months? | ||
| Do you have nearsightedness, farsightedness, or astigmatism? | ||
| Are your eyes generally healthy (no glaucoma, cataracts, etc.)? | ||
| Are you in good health, generally speaking (no autoimmune disorders, etc.)? | ||
| Are you currently pregnant or breastfeeding? |
Scoring:
- 5 Yes Answers: You’re likely a good candidate! Time to book a consultation.
- 3–4 Yes Answers: You may still qualify, but a thorough eye exam is necessary.
- 1–2 Yes Answers: LASIK may not be suitable for you, but don’t worry! There are alternatives like PRK, ICLs, or SMILE surgery.
What If You’re Not a Candidate?
Even if you’re not eligible for LASIK, there are several other vision correction options:
- PRK (Photorefractive Keratectomy) – Ideal for those with thinner corneas.
- SMILE (Small Incision Lenticule Extraction) – A minimally invasive alternative to LASIK.
- Implantable Contact Lenses (ICLs) – A solution for high prescriptions or thin corneas.
Next Step: Book a LASIK consultation
While this quiz is a helpful starting point, the only way to know for sure if LASIK is right for you is to get a comprehensive eye exam and consultation with a qualified LASIK surgeon.
During your consultation, your eye doctor will:
- Measure your corneal thickness
- Map the surface of your eye
- Evaluate tear production
- Check your prescription stability
- Discuss your lifestyle, goals, and expectations
Frequently Asked Questions
- Is LASIK painful?
No, most patients at VASAN Eye Care experience only mild discomfort. The procedure is generally completed within 15 minutes per eye.
- What is the LASIK recovery time?
Most People return to normal routines within 24 to 48 hours.
- How much does LASIK eye surgery cost?
Prices vary based on technology and surgeon expertise. Many clinics offer financing and payment plans.
Why Choose VASAN Eye Care for LASIK?
- Highly trained LASIK specialists
- State-of-the-art equipment and safety protocols
- Transparent pricing with flexible payment options
- Personalised care from consultation to post-op recovery
VASAN Eye Care has earned the trust of millions of patients across India. Whether you’re seeking clarity in vision or freedom from lenses, we’re here to help you see life better.
Ready to start your LASIK journey?
Take the quiz, check your eligibility, and book your consultation at VASAN Eye Care, one of the best eye hospitals in India, today.
