If you rely on glasses or contacts, you’ve probably wondered what life would be like with clearer vision—no more fogged lenses or misplaced contacts. LASIK is a popular option for many, but not everyone is eligible for the procedure.
Understanding the typical criteria for LASIK can help you know what to expect when you talk with your eye doctor. While only a LASIK specialist can say for sure if it’s right for you, being familiar with these common guidelines can make your consultation more productive and help you prepare the right questions.
Let’s take a closer look at what eye doctors consider when evaluating LASIK candidates.
Key LASIK Candidate Criteria
1. Healthy Eyes Are a Must
- Your eyes should be free from active infections, severe dry eye, or conjunctivitis.
- Chronic dry eye? Discuss treatment options with your eye doctor or LASIK specialist before proceeding.
- Any recent eye injuries or surgeries may require additional evaluation.
2. Your Prescription Should Be Within Range
- LASIK is FDA-approved for:
- Up to +6.00 diopters (farsightedness)
- Up to -12.00 diopters (nearsightedness)
- Up to 6.00 diopters (astigmatism)
- Suitability depends on your unique eye profile and the technology used. A comprehensive evaluation is essential.
3. You Must Be at Least 18 Years Old
- Most patients are in their 20s or older, as younger eyes may still be changing.
- There’s no strict upper age limit, but older adults may still need reading glasses after LASIK.
4. Stable Prescription for At Least One Year
- Your vision prescription should not have changed significantly in the past year.
- Fluctuating vision may indicate it’s best to wait until your prescription stabilizes.
5. Good General Health
- Certain health conditions can affect healing and eligibility:
- Autoimmune diseases (e.g., lupus, rheumatoid arthritis)
- Uncontrolled diabetes
- Chronic pain syndromes or depression
- Always disclose your full medical history to your LASIK specialist.
6. Not Pregnant or Recently Postpartum
- Hormonal changes during pregnancy can alter vision.
- It’s best to wait until after pregnancy and, if nursing, consult your specialist for personalized advice.
7. Corneal Thickness Within Safe Limits
- LASIK reshapes the cornea, so adequate corneal thickness is vital.
- Most patients’ corneas are 540–550 microns thick, but advanced lasers can sometimes accommodate thinner corneas.
8. Informed and Prepared
- Research LASIK thoroughly and prepare questions for your consultation.
- Understanding the LASIK procedure, risks, and benefits helps ensure the best outcome.
LASIK Candidate Criteria at a Glance
| Criteria | Why It Matters | What to Do Next |
|---|---|---|
| Healthy eyes | Reduces risk of complications | Treat any active conditions |
| Prescription in range | Ensures best possible results | Get a comprehensive eye exam |
| Age 18+ | Eyes should be fully developed | Wait if under 18 |
| Stable prescription (1+ year) | Prevents need for repeat procedures | Monitor changes with your doctor |
| Good overall health | Promotes proper healing | Share full medical history |
| Not pregnant/nursing | Prevents temporary vision changes | Schedule post-pregnancy consult |
| Adequate corneal thickness | Ensures safety and effectiveness | Get measured by a specialist |
| Well-informed | Sets realistic expectations | Prepare questions for consult |
Why Choose TLC Laser Eye Centers?
- Experienced, board-certified LASIK surgeons
- Advanced diagnostic and laser technology
- Personalized care and thorough pre-surgical evaluations
Ready to See If You’re a LASIK Candidate?
Schedule a free consultation with TLC Laser Eye Centers. Our experts will provide a personalized assessment and answer all your questions—so you can make the best decision for your vision.
[i] FDA. (2016). Summary of safety and effectiveness data. Retrieved from https://www.accessdata.fda.gov/cdrh_docs/pdf2/P020050S023B.pdf
iii Mayo Clinic. (2019). Lasik surgery: Is it right for you? Mayoclinic.org. Retrieved from https://www.mayoclinic.org/tests-procedures/lasik-eye-surgery/in-depth/lasik-surgery/art-20045751