LASIK Candidate?

Refractive surgery is not for everyone. Not every patient is a candidate for LASIK eye surgery. Although LASIK has helped millions of people reduce and even eliminate dependence on glasses, it is important to not assume that LASIK is the best option for you. Typically 8 out of 10 patients are good candidates for LASIK.

Am I an Ideal LASIK Candidate?

In addition to having a complete eye exam to find out if you are a candidate for surgery, there are certain questions you should ask yourself before considering LASIK or other refractive procedures. The best way to determine if you are a good candidate is to be evaluated by Dr. Cutarelli. Learn more about the costs of LASIK Eye Surgery in Denver.



The ideal LASIK patient is:

  • At least 18 years of age
  • Stable vision for the past year
  • Adequate corneal tissue thickness
  • Overall good health
  • Strong knowledge of the benefits and risks of LASIK

Common types of vision problems that LASIK treats include:

  • Myopia (nearsightedness)
  • Hyperopia (farsightedness)
  • Astigmatism (football shaped cornea)
  • Presbyopia (age related loss of near vision and accommodation)

Not a LASIK Candidate

If you have any of the following conditions, you would NOT be a candidate for LASIK:

  • Conditions such as visually significant cataracts, glaucoma, corneal diseases, keratoconus, or certain other pre-existing eye diseases that affect or threaten vision
  • Collagen vascular diseases, such as rheumatoid arthritis, or significant problems with wound healing.
  • Refusal to participate in informed consent process
  • Not having realistic expectations

If you are not a LASIK candidate, however, don’t worry – there are still options. Here at Cutarelli Vision, we offer several LASIK alternatives, including PRK, intraocular lenses, “implantable contact lenses” and Refractive Lens Exchange. Take a look at our LASIK alternatives page for more information!

Considerations

The vast majority of LASIK patients are thrilled after their procedure. However, it is important to remember as with any surgical procedure, the outcomes may differ. LASIK cannot provide perfect vision every time for every patient. The final outcome of surgery varies from person to person due to different rates of healing. Take the opportunity to ask questions and discuss the procedure with Dr. Cutarelli.