Are you considering LASIK but unsure if it’s the right time? The only real age limit for a LASIK procedure, according to the FDA, is that each surgical candidate should be at least 18 years of age.
THE RIGHT AGE FOR LASIK
Generally speaking, the most common range for LASIK patients falls between 20 and 40 years old. Although the FDA approved LASIK eye surgery for people over 18, we encourage young adults to wait until their mid-20s because their prescription may still be changing and developing. Fortunately, research shows that eyesight prescription is more likely to stabilize after the age of 20. Having a stable prescription for at least two years is a general guideline that someone is a good LASIK candidate.
LASIK FOR PATIENTS 40 TO 55 YEARS OLD
After turning 40, it’s common for our eyesight to change and become more susceptible to corneal disorders, which can be a disqualifying factor for LASIK. Fortunately, ophthalmologists evaluate older patients on a case-by-case basis.
LASIK FOR SENIORS
While there’s technically no upper age limit that prevent aging adults from undergoing LASIK surgery, there are many factors that may make them less than ideal candidates. Patients over the age of 50 are in greater jeopardy of suffering from macular degeneration, a disease that causes decline of the retina. Patients over 60 are more prone to cataracts and glaucoma. While this may lead you to believe that LASIK isn’t right for patients over 50, it’s important to note that there are a wealth of aging adults who are considered the ideal candidates for LASIK. In fact, the American Academy of Ophthalmology has noted that people over the age of 50 are increasingly gravitating towards LASIK surgery.
FACTORS THAT IMPACT LASIK CANDIDACY
In addition to age, there are a few factors that can impact LASIK candidacy, including:
- Overall eye health
- Pregnancy
- Cornea thickness
- Pupil size
- Prescription
CONTACT DAVIS VISION CENTER FOR YOUR LASIK EYE SURGERY IN SALT LAKE CITY, UTAH
Consulting with an expert eye surgeon can help you discover if LASIK is right for you. Our convenient location is great for patients living in the Salt Lake Valley as well as the Northern and Southern Utah areas. Contact us today at 801-590-0864.
