If you’re tired of dealing with glasses or contact lenses, you may have wondered whether LASIK could be your ticket to clear, hassle-free vision. It’s a life-changing procedure for many, but not everyone is an ideal candidate. Understanding the key prescription requirements and overall criteria for LASIK can help you determine if it’s the right choice for you.

Understanding Your Prescription for LASIK

One of the first things we look at when evaluating LASIK candidates is their vision prescription. LASIK is highly effective for people with:

• Nearsightedness (Myopia): Most patients with mild to moderate myopia (up to -8.00 diopters) respond well to LASIK. Higher levels can be treated, but results may vary.

• Farsightedness (Hyperopia): LASIK can correct mild to moderate hyperopia (up to +4.00 diopters). However, results for higher prescriptions may be less predictable.

• Astigmatism: Many people mistakenly believe they can’t get LASIK if they have astigmatism. In reality, LASIK can correct most astigmatism up to around 5.00 diopters.

If your prescription is stable and falls within these ranges, you may be a good candidate. However, LASIK is not always the best option for those with extreme prescriptions, as other procedures might offer better outcomes.

Beyond the Numbers: Additional LASIK Candidacy Factors

Your prescription isn’t the only factor that determines whether LASIK is right for you. Here are some additional criteria we evaluate:

• Prescription Stability: LASIK works best when your prescription has remained stable for at least a year. If your vision is still changing, it’s best to wait until it levels out.

• Corneal Thickness: Your cornea needs to be thick enough to safely reshape during the procedure. Thin or irregular corneas might make LASIK unsafe, but alternatives like PRK could still be an option.

• Eye Health: Conditions such as keratoconus, glaucoma, or severe dry eye can affect candidacy. A comprehensive eye exam will help determine if your eyes are healthy enough for LASIK.

• Overall Health & Medications: Certain autoimmune conditions, diabetes, or medications that affect healing (like steroids) may impact your suitability for LASIK. We’ll review your medical history to ensure you’re a good fit.

• Age Considerations: While LASIK is FDA-approved for adults 18 and older, most eye surgeons recommend waiting until your mid-20s, when your prescription is more likely to be stable. If you're over 40, we’ll also discuss how LASIK interacts with presbyopia (age-related near vision loss).

What If You’re Not a LASIK Candidate?

If LASIK isn’t the best fit for you, don’t worry—our team at Raleigh Eye Center will thoroughly assess your vision and eye health to determine the best path forward. We’re committed to helping you achieve the clearest vision possible with a solution tailored to your unique needs.

Ready to See If LASIK Is Right for You?

If you’re curious about LASIK and want to know if you qualify, the best next step is a consultation. We’ll take the time to evaluate your prescription, eye health, and vision goals to determine the best approach for you. 

Schedule your LASIK evaluation with Raleigh Eye Center, and take the first step toward clear, glasses-free vision! Contact our office in Raleigh, Durham, Reidsville, Henderson, North Carolina, or South Hill, Virginia. Call (919) 899-2472, (919) 876-2427 or (252) 492-8021 to book an appointment today.