How to Know If You’re a Good Candidate for LASIK Eye Surgery

Young woman removing glasses near eye chart during ophthalmologist consultation, concept of vision testing and eye care Poor vision can impact nearly every aspect of your daily life, from reading signs to enjoying outdoor activities. LASIK Eye Surgery helps many people reduce their dependence on glasses or contact lenses, but it isn’t right for everyone. Understanding who qualifies for the procedure is key to determining whether it’s the right step for you.

At North Suburban Eye Associates, our experienced ophthalmology team has decades of experience performing eye procedures. The team consists of board-certified ophthalmologists who have performed thousands of LASIK Eye Surgery procedures in the Greater Boston area. Their skill and precision help ensure safe, personalized outcomes for each patient.

Age and Vision Stability

One of the first factors considered in LASIK candidacy is age. Most specialists recommend waiting until at least 18 years old, as the eyes continue to change during adolescence. In addition, your prescription should remain stable for at least one year before surgery. Fluctuating vision can affect your long-term results and may indicate other eye health issues that need to be addressed first.

Eye Health and Existing Conditions

Healthy eyes are essential for a safe and successful LASIK outcome. During your consultation, your ophthalmologist will examine your eyes to detect any signs of disease or injury. Conditions that may affect candidacy include:

  • Glaucoma: Elevated eye pressure can increase surgical risks.
  • Cataracts: Clouded lenses may require treatment before LASIK.
  • Severe dry eye: This can delay healing and affect vision quality.
  • Corneal scarring or thinning: These can interfere with the laser’s precision.

Maintaining good eye health ensures that the cornea and surrounding tissues respond properly to treatment and recover efficiently.

Corneal Thickness and Shape

Corneal thickness plays an essential role in LASIK Eye Surgery. The laser reshapes the cornea to improve how light enters the eye, which corrects refractive errors such as nearsightedness, farsightedness, and astigmatism. If the cornea is too thin, alternative procedures like PRK or LASEK may be safer options. These treatments reshape the eye without creating a corneal flap, offering similar vision improvements.

Lifestyle and Expectations

Your daily habits and expectations also help determine LASIK suitability. People who play contact sports, work in dusty environments, or have unrealistic expectations about achieving perfect vision should discuss these concerns with their ophthalmologist. While LASIK can significantly improve vision, it may not eliminate the need for reading glasses, especially after age 40, due to presbyopia.

Understanding how your lifestyle and long-term goals align with LASIK results helps set realistic expectations for success.

Explore LASIK Eye Surgery in Wakefield and Winchester, MA

Clear vision can make life easier, safer, and more enjoyable. If you want to know whether LASIK Eye Surgery is right for you, schedule a consultation with North Suburban Eye Associates in Wakefield or Winchester. Our board-certified ophthalmologists will evaluate your unique needs and explain the best options for lasting visual freedom. Call 781-245-5200 to schedule your appointment today.

Get In Touch

* All indicated fields must be completed.
Please include non-medical questions and correspondence only.

Location

Wakefield Office

781-245-5200
Fax: 781-246-3932
Insurance Referrals
Fax: 781-587-2015

Winchester Office

781-245-5200
Fax: 781-721-2250
Insurance Referrals
Fax: 781-587-2015

Waltham Office

617-864-3600
Fax: 617-864-9966

Call Center Hours

Wakefield Office

Mon - Thu: 8:30am - 4:30pm
Fri: 8:30am - 4:00pm

Winchester Office

Mon - Thu: 8:30am - 4:30pm

Waltham Office

Mon - Thu: 8:30am - 4:30pm
Fri: 8:30am - 4:00pm

Accessibility Toolbar

Scroll to Top