As the most popular form of laser eye surgery available, Lasik has helped millions achieve better vision. Patients who have myopia (nearsightedness), hyperopia (farsightedness) or suffer from astigmatism may be able to reduce the need for corrective eye wear. In many cases, Lasik has eliminated the need for glasses or contacts altogether.



The Quality Standards Advisory Committee reports a 90 percent success rate among patients achieving 20/40 vision or better. 20/20 vision results stand at about 65 percent. Some patients have achieved even better results. Less than three percent of patients experience complications six months following Lasik surgery.

While Lasik has accomplished an astonishing success rate, elements pertaining to medical history can affect individual results. In order to qualify for Lasik, patients are required to complete a medical screening. Your Lasik surgeon will conduct a medical eye exam and an evaluation of your complete medical history.

The Ideal Candidate for Lasik

Like all surgical procedures, Lasik involves a necessary degree of risk. Even the perfect candidate will incur some risk. The ideal candidate for Lasik surgery is at least 18 years old. Patients should also have stable vision, no prescription changes for at least one year.

Your Medical History and Eye Conditions

Eye conditions that affect the healing process can make recovery time longer. Conditions such as dry eyes and inflammation associated with allergies, ocular herpes and viral and bacterial conjunctivitis can cause additional post-operative discomfort. It is best to postpone laser eye surgery until symptoms are at bay. Any injuries to the eye should also be discussed with the doctor.

Certain eye conditions may fully disqualify you for Lasik surgery. Lasik is not appropriate for patients with cataracts, Keratonocus and certain levels of glaucoma. Discuss vision correction alternatives with the laser eye surgeon.

Patients with extreme myopia may not be good candidates for Lasik. Extreme myopia requires a great deal of tissue removal in order to garner any success from the procedure. Patients with corneas that are too thin can also incur additional difficulties. Other refractive surgeries may offer better results for your condition. Discuss alternatives for advanced myopia and hyperopia with your doctor.

Patients with large pupils are also at risk for complications following Lasik surgery. There is an increased risk for developing problems with night vision, such as glare and halos. Wavefront Lasik may be a better alternative for patients with large pupils. The doctor will also need to consider any previous laser eye surgery to determine whether an additional refractive surgery is applicable.

Medical History and Refractive Instability

Refractive instability can be caused by many factors, such as age, pregnancy and nursing, medical conditions and medications. Patients who have diabetes commonly experience fluctuations in vision due to hormonal changes. Additionally, many medications cause refractive instability. Discuss all medications and health conditions that affect vision with your Lasik surgeon.

Health Conditions That Affect Immunity

Health conditions that pose a hindrance on your ability to heal should be thoroughly discussed with the doctor. Diabetes can not only create changes in vision, but also lowers immunity. Other conditions such as Lupus, Rheumatoid Arthritis, HIV and other immunodeficiency states may create potential difficulties during the recovery process. Certain medications such as steroids and retinoic acids compromise the immune system, as well.

Discuss Your Medical History With the Lasik Surgeon