Who are NOT Qualified for Lasik?

As great advancements are happening in the area eye surgery to correct eye defects, the number of people not qualified to have the surgery has also diminished. Today, almost everyboyd can be qualified to undergo Lasik eye surgery to correct their eye defects. Still, there remain a few exceptions. Following is the minimum requirement that most doctors use to guide their decision in qualifying prospective Lasik patients:

• Your refractive error should be stable.
• You should be at least 18 years of age or older.
• No other ophthalmologic disorders

Your refractive error is the angle wherein light is focused at the back of the eye. This brings about most of the regular eye diseases namely astigmatism, myopia and hyperopia. In Myopia, the rays of the light are focused in front of the retina rather than on the retina. This causes nearsightedness. Some symptoms of nearsightedness are blurred distant vision, eye strain, and squinting. Reduced night vision is also another indication. This eye defect can be easily treated with glasses and Lasik, which has become a popular choice for many patients.

Hyperopia is the reverse condition, which is commonly known as farsightedness. This condition occurs when light rays are focused behind the retina and not on the retina. This causes poor near vision. Patients who are farsighted have to bring their books away from their eyes. They have also turned to using magnifying and reading glasses to see things that are already are already right in front their faces. As in Myopia, glasses and contact lenses can correct some of these problems, and naturally, as well as Lasik.

The odd shaped of the eyes, that being shaped like a football instead of a round baseball is the cause of Astigmatism. The light rays enter two points rather than just on one point of the retina. This imperfection causes, blurred vision and appearance of shadows on letters when reading. This defect has been suffered by a lot of people for many decades. Until recently, some people suffering from this condition, specifically if it is severe, cannot use contact lenses. Only those with mild astigmatism can use the contact lens with comfort.

Even the modern developments in the production of contact lenses have not improved the lot of patients suffering from severe astigmatism. Now with Lasik, these patients can now hope for an option for treating their eye defects and be restored to normal, or at least be able to wear contact lenses with some measure of comfort. Regardless, these patients are happy just to experience an improvement in their vision by being able to wear contacts, or at best, totally get rid of their glasses or contacts.

The prospective patient should at least be 18 years old or older to consider Lasik. The reason for this is the body, including the eyes are still in the process of developing and changing. The eyes could still change their shape and will only stop once it has reached full maturity. Most people's eyes become fully developed by 16 years old. But for good measure, doctors would like to wait for two years more. It is best to wait until you have reached 18 years old to avert any side effects or having a second surgery after.

Ophthalmologic disorders are disorders in the eye. Some of these eye disorders are cataract and glaucoma. These eye diseases have to be treated first to avoid complications during the surgery and recovery period. Patients who have eye should not even consider having Lasik as the procedure may not bear good results or even worsen the eye condition. It is a rare possibility for people with optical disorder to achieve better eyesight after Lasik.

The patient should not be suffering from other physical disorders such as arthritis. A lot of physical disorders are believed to cause undue pressure on the eyes, thus making them unqualified for Lasik surgery.

Please bear in mind that all these are guidelines which not all doctors strictly adhere to. As in most rules, there could be exceptions but only a capable doctor can come to a decision whether you can risk surgery despite your health conditions. The doctor you choose should have your full trust. Allow the doctor to study your eyes thoroughly and heed their advice if Lasik is suitable for you. Even for perfect candidates, there are still possible risks. Do not take uncalculated risks. After discussing this with your doctor and if he/she decides that you are qualified for the surgery, then you should go for it.