Lasik is a popular laser eye surgery that has helped millions of patients with vision correction. Patients who are farsighted, nearsighted or suffer from astigmatism may be able to reduce or eliminate the need for corrective eye wear. But not every patient is right for Lasik. There are criteria that must be met in order to qualify. Learn more about what makes a poor candidate for Lasik eye surgery and schedule a consultation with your doctor.

What is Lasik Eye Surgery?

Lasik is a laser eye surgery conducted in an outpatient facility. The procedure takes about 15 minutes and involves a nominal recovery time. Since inception, Lasik eye surgery has seen many improvements. But even with medical advancement and increased precision, Lasik, as with all surgical procedures, still occupies a degree of risk.

Lasik eye surgery results are different for each patient. Due to the eye's changing nature with age, results may not last. Additional procedures if applicable, may be necessary. Patients over 40 will likely need to continue wearing reading glasses.

Your Responsibility as a Candidate for Lasik Eye Surgery

The risks associated with Lasik can be substantially reduced. Doing your part by following post-operative instructions can improve your outcome. The doctor can appropriately judge your candidacy for Lasik eye surgery.

Lasik Surgery and Your Health

The doctor will examine the condition of your eyes as part of the screening process for Lasik surgery. Large pupils under dim light may indicate poor candidacy for Lasik. Certain medications may affect the size of your pupils. This condition indicates a risk for complicates such as glare, halos and double vision.

The doctor will also check the thickness of your corneas. Patients with thin corneas should not have Lasik. Lasik is performed by creating a flap in the outermost layer of the cornea. When the cornea is too thin, it can cause serious complications, including blindness. Among other eye conditions that may enhance the risk of Lasik eye surgery are inflammation, dry eyes and crusting of the eyelids.

Patients who experience refractive instability should wait to have Lasik eye surgery. Refractive stability, or vision fluctuation is common among patients with diabetes, and women who are pregnant or breastfeeding. You must be at least 18 and have no recent vision prescription changes in order to qualify for Lasik surgery.

Medical conditions that weaken the immune system should be discussed with your doctor. Conditions such as Rheumatoid Arthritis, Lupus, HIV or other immunodeficiency states, can compromise the Lasik surgery recovery process. Certain medications can also affect the immune system. Be sure to inform your doctor if you are taking steroids, retinoic acids, or any other medications.

Certain professions may limit your candidacy for Lasik. Check with your superior regarding restrictions on laser eye surgery. Certain contact sports may also curb your ability to have Lasik.

The Cost of Lasik Eye Surgery

The cost of laser eye surgery can range from $499 to $2500 per eye. Lasik is considered an elective surgical procedure. As a result, you may not receive coverage through an insurance policy. There are a number of financing options available. Inquire with you're your Lasik surgeon about possible financing alternatives.