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LASIK Eye Surgery & Age Limit
Dispelling the myth that you can be “too old” for LASIK eye surgery.
When it comes to LASIK eye surgery, there are many myths and rumors that surround this popular vision procedure despite the fact that it has been around for many years and has improved the vision of millions of people around the world. However, because the long-term effects of LASIK are so beneficial and life-changing for many patients who have undergone surgery, people continue to believe the myths that surround it, thinking that it sounds just too good to be true.
One of the most commonly heard myths and misconceptions about LASIK eye surgery is that the procedure is inappropriate or unbeneficial for anyone over the age of 40. Not only is this statement completely untrue, but it also discounts some of the most significant benefits of LASIK―its precision, safety, and suitability for any person looking to have clearer, more effective vision at any age.
Because the acuity of the senses first begins to decline once we reach the age of 40, many people are looking for ways to bring back the once-vivid eyesight that they had in their youth. LASIK is one of the best ways to accomplish this. In fact, when it comes to vision correction among seniors, LASIK eye surgery is often used as a complimentary procedure that works alongside other helpful treatments, such as cataract surgery, in order to further assist with clearer, more accurate vision in those with declining eyesight.
So, if you think that you are too old for LASIK, think again! As long as you have met the requirements that are necessary for LASIK eye surgery to be approved, you could be well on your way to clearer vision and a much better quality of life.
Why Should You Consider LASIK?
One of reasons that LASIK eye surgery is such a beneficial procedure for people of all eye types and shapes is because it can correct many common vision problems in patients such as nearsightedness, farsightedness, and even astigmatism―regardless of age. LASIK can also allow you to be independent from glasses or contacts, and it is sometimes even a permanent fix for some patients.
Am I a Good Candidate for LASIK?
All patients who are looking to undergo LASIK eye surgery must be over the age of 18 in order to ensure that their eyes have fully developed. However, other than that, determining who makes a good candidate for LASIK surgery depends less on age that it does on other factors. For instance, in order to meet the standard criteria for surgery, you must be in good general health, have realistic expectations about the procedure and have healthy corneas.
While LASIK is a great corrective procedure for many patients with vision problems, there are still some conditions that may make you a poor candidate for surgery. Therefore, it is important that you meet with your ophthalmologist and have a through eye exam in order to determine whether or not LASIK is the right choice for you and your vision.
If you are looking for more information about LASIK, be sure to sign up for a free vision consultation today at OCLI. You should never let your age hold you back against living comfortably and healthy in your senior years. After all, it is never too late to start improving your quality of life.
Does LASIK Hurt?
Before the LASIK procedure begins, numbing eye drops will be used on your eyes. The only sensation most people report feeling is a bit of pressure on the eye during the first portion of the procedure. Once the numbing eye drops wear off post-procedure, your eyes may be sensitive to light as well as dry and watery, and you may experience some mild discomfort. If you feel any pain, you can take some over-the-counter medications. If symptoms persist, however, contact your LASIK surgeon.
Will I be Awake for the Procedure?
Since LASIK is a very short procedure (usually less than 10 minutes) and sometimes sedatives can cause problems, patients undergoing LASIK are kept awake. If the thought of being awake during LASIK bothers you, tell your LASIK surgeon and they can administer a mild sedative to you for the procedure.
Can I Drive Myself Home after the Procedure?
Due to temporarily impaired vision following the procedure, you cannot drive yourself home afterward, so bring a family member or friend along to your LASIK appointment. Your eyes may become sensitive to light once the numbing drops begin to wear off, so it’s best to proceed with caution.
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