Here at Peña Eye Institute, we have helped many patients see clearly and experience enhanced eyesight. The people of McAllen know that they can trust us for their diverse eye care needs.
Many patients are interested in getting custom LASIK surgery to improve vision, though they are unaware of how it works and who an ideal candidate may be. With that in mind, let's cover these topics right now.
About LASIK
LASIK is a form of laser eye surgery that involves the reshaping of the corneas. By doing this, it improves the passage of light through the eyes and allows for proper focus of light on the retinas, which is the light-sensitive tissue located at the back of the eye.
LASIK is ideal for treating refractive errors, which you may know better by the following names:
- Nearsightedness (myopia)
- Farsightedness (hyperopia)
- Astigmatism
Given its effectiveness and safety, LASIK is one of the most popular laser vision correction options in the country, with numerous patients inquiring about the surgery at our practice each week.
What Age Is Ideal for LASIK Surgery?
LASIK can be performed on patients who are older than 18 and well into their adult life. Keep in mind that the need for LASIK and the nature of the surgery can change when a person is older.
Why Does Candidacy Start at 18?
As we noted above, LASIK changes the shape of a person's corneas using lasers. When a person is growing up, the shape of their corneas is constantly changing as a result of maturation and the aging process. Before the age of 18, a person's corneas may still be in the process of maturing and changing, which means performing LASIK before that age may mean inevitable secondary LASIK surgery at a later date.
Rather than perform LASIK too early, eye surgeons want to err on the side of caution to achieve the best long-term results. That is why all LASIK patients need to be at least 18 years old to undergo surgery.
LASIK in Middle Age: Treating Presbyopia
In addition to treating refractive error, LASIK can be used to treat a condition known as presbyopia. Presbyopia is an age-related form of hyperopia (farsightedness) that occurs as part of the natural aging process. The lenses of the eye lose flexibility and as a result cause people to lose their near vision.
Rather than performing traditional LASIK, a procedure known as monovision LASIK can be performed. Monovision LASIK correct one eye rather than both, allowing patients to see clearly in the process. Not everyone is a good candidate for monovision LASIK, but patients who do get monovision LASIK performed often enjoy the overall results.
Other Candidacy Considerations Must Be Met
In addition to age, there are many other considerations for LASIK candidacy, including stability of prescription and general health and wellness of the eyes. During the consultation process, we can determine if LASIK is right for you of if there is an alternative to LASIK that may be better given your age and vision health.
Contact the Team at Peña Eye Institute
To learn more about LASIK and how it can help you achieve excellent vision and total wellness, be sure to contact our advanced laser eye care center today. The team at Peña Eye Institute will help you see the world clearly again.
