5 Signs You Might Be a Candidate for Eye Laser Surgery
Introduction
Laser eye surgery has transformed the lives of millions. It offers freedom from glasses and contact lenses. The procedure reshapes the cornea to improve vision and is suitable for many sight issues.
Still, not everyone is automatically eligible for treatment. If you’re considering laser eye surgery, it’s important to assess your suitability beforehand. Certain criteria must be met to ensure the surgery is safe and effective.
In this guide, we explore five clear signs you might be a good candidate. Understanding these indicators helps you make an informed decision and prepares you for your consultation.
1. Your Vision Has Been Stable for at Least a Year
One of the most important requirements for laser eye surgery is stable vision. If your prescription has changed recently, your eyes may still be adjusting.
Surgeons usually recommend that your vision remain unchanged for at least 12 months. This ensures that the results of the surgery will be long-lasting and accurate.
Moreover, treating unstable eyesight can lead to further changes post-surgery, which may affect results. Consequently, it’s best to wait until your prescription has levelled out. You should have had the same glasses or contact lens prescription for over a year.
2. You Are in Good Overall Eye Health
Healthy eyes are essential for a successful outcome. During your assessment, the surgeon will check for any underlying conditions.
You should have no active infections, injuries, or untreated issues. This could include severe dry eye or corneal disease. These could interfere with healing or compromise results.
Additionally, your corneas need to be thick enough to handle reshaping. A detailed scan will determine whether the corneal tissue is suitable for treatment.
Altogether, having healthy eyes boosts your chances of qualifying and achieving long-term visual clarity.
3. You’re Over 18 and Your Eyes Are Fully Developed
Age is another important factor. Most clinics only offer laser eye surgery to individuals aged 18 or older.
Before this age, your eyes may still be developing. Performing surgery too early can result in unstable results or the need for further treatment.
Additionally, you may be in your early twenties and still noticing prescription changes. In this case your surgeon may advise waiting. Stability is key for success.
Once your eyes have matured and your prescription is stable, eligibility is more likely.
4. You Have a Suitable Refractive Error
Laser eye surgery is designed to correct common refractive errors such as:
- Short-sightedness (myopia)
- Long-sightedness (hyperopia)
- Astigmatism
If you fall within certain prescription ranges, you're likely to be a suitable candidate. Surgeons will assess the degree of your refractive error and how well your eyes can be corrected.
Furthermore, people with very high prescriptions might still be eligible through advanced laser systems. However, your surgeon will advise on the best route during your initial assessment.
5. You Want Greater Freedom from Glasses or Contacts
Motivation is an often-overlooked factor, but it plays a vital role. Do glasses and contact lenses affect your lifestyle? If so, you may be ready for a long-term solution.
Many people consider laser eye surgery because:
- They lead active lives
- They dislike wearing glasses
- They experience discomfort with contact lenses
- They want improved confidence
Additionally, patients often report greater freedom and satisfaction after the procedure. Your goal may be to simplify your daily routine and reduce your dependence on lenses. That’s a great sign you’re ready.
Conclusion
Five key signs suggest you might be a good candidate for laser eye surgery. These include stable vision, healthy eyes, being over 18, a suitable prescription, and a strong desire for visual freedom.
If you recognise yourself in these signs, you may choose to take the next step. Book a consultation to receive expert guidance and a personalised assessment.
With modern technology and experienced professionals, life without glasses could be closer than you think.
For more information and to book a consultation visit the ACIBADEM Beauty Center laser eye surgery page.