How to Know if You're a Good Candidate for LASIK

Are you tired of relying on glasses for nearsightedness or farsighted vision? Laser vision correction surgery has changed the lives of millions of people worldwide. However, not everyone is a suitable candidate for LASIK.

Ideal candidates are over the age of 18, have had stable vision for at least two years, rely on corrective lenses due to a refractive error, and don't have any eye health concerns or medical conditions that could affect surgery or recovery. If you're interested in LASIK, call Kirk Eye Center to meet with Dr. Kent Kirk. Our team members in River Forest, Glen Ellyn, Gurnee, and Chicago, IL, can perform an evaluation and determine if LASIK is the ideal option.

What is a refractive error?

Before we discuss the requirements for LASIK, it's important to define a few key terms. So, what is a refractive error? This type of error occurs when the shape of the eye keeps light from focusing on the retina, resulting in blurry or unfocused vision. While refractive errors like nearsightedness or farsightedness are not harmful to the eyes, they are inconvenient and can negatively impact your life. For example, without corrective lenses, many people experience headaches and eye strain.

The science behind LASIK

Laser vision correction surgery, or LASIK, is a surgical procedure that reduces reliance on glasses for nearsightedness or farsighted vision. The laser used in surgery removes small amounts of tissue from the cornea.

LASIK is a quick and virtually painless process that can be done within 20 minutes for both eyes. Before starting surgery, Dr. Kirk will numb your eyes with anesthesia drops to ensure comfort. We then create a thin flap on the surface of the cornea before reshaping the underlying tissue.

Am I a candidate for LASIK?

You may be asking yourself, "Am I a candidate for LASIK?" The only way to know is to schedule a consultation with Dr. Kirk in the Chicago area. Our trained team can determine if you meet the necessary requirements in River Forest, Glen Ellyn, Gurnee, or Chicago, IL.

In general, good candidates for LASIK:

• Are adults over the age of 18: Children are unable to undergo laser vision procedures as their eyes are still developing.
• Have stable vision: Your prescription should be consistent for at least two years to ensure the best results possible from LASIK.
• Use corrective lenses due to a refractive error: As mentioned, you must have a refractive error to benefit from LASIK surgery.
• Have no eye health concerns: Any current or previous eye injury or infection may disqualify you from LASIK until the eye has healed.
• No underlying conditions: Certain conditions, such as autoimmune diseases, can affect the healing process and increase the risk of complications.

Ask about laser vision correction surgery

If you're still wondering, "What is a refractive error?" or "Am I a candidate for LASIK?" The next step is to meet with our team. Speaking with an experienced provider like Dr. Kent Kirk can provide personalized insights and clarify concerns. Remember, you don't have to decide alone.

LASIK has the potential to change your life, especially if you use glasses for nearsightedness or farsighted vision. At Kirk Eye Center, serving River Forest, Glen Ellyn, Gurnee, and Chicago, IL, we've helped countless people achieve their vision goals. Call now to get started.