What Eye Diseases Affect My Candidacy For LASIK Eye Surgery?

If you need glasses to see well, you may have imagined what life would be like with laser correction surgery. It is an important consideration since LASIK is elective instead of a medical necessity. If you would like to weigh the benefits and risks, contact Wang Vision Institute to meet with Dr. Ming Wang and Dr. Josh Frenkel. We can explain which eye diseases may affect your candidacy. The following are general guidelines we use in determining if LASIK in Nashville, TN is a good fit for you.

Your general health and eye diseases

Some health issues may interfere with your LASIK results, which is why we ask patients to share their complete medical history when visiting our office. We also perform a comprehensive eye examination to learn about any problems you may not have known about before your visit. Wang Vision Institute wants to make recommendations based on all available information and facts.

The following are general conditions that may prevent you from getting LASIK:

• Certain autoimmune diseases

• Rheumatoid arthritis

• Diabetes

• Lupus

These eye diseases may also prevent you from getting laser correction surgery:

• Dry eye syndrome

• Diabetic retinopathy

• Keratoconus

• Glaucoma

• Cataracts

Pregnant women should wait until after childbirth to schedule LASIK vision correction surgery. Keep in mind that some medications, such as corticosteroids and acne prescriptions, can affect the healing process. Please let our doctors know about all medications and supplements you may be taking.

Corneal shape and thickness

LASIK improves your vision by reshaping the cornea, or the surface of the eye that focuses light on the retina. If your cornea is too thin, you may not be a candidate for LASIK in Nashville. Dr. Ming or Dr. Frenkel will measure your cornea to make sure there is enough tissue. If you have been told you could not have LASIK because your corneas are too thin, you may still be a candidate for vision correction. Contact Wang Vision Institute to learn about your options.

Stable vision

LASIK is FDA-approved for adults who are at least 18 years old. However, patients should know that their vision may still fluctuate well into early adulthood. Some adults even experience changes to their eyesight into their 40s and 50s. Your vision should be stable for about 12 months before undergoing any laser correction surgery or other refractive procedure. During an examination, an eye doctor should let you know if your prescription is stable.

Having realistic expectations about LASIK

While the vast majority of patients experience successful results, you should be aware of the possible side effects and complications of LASIK. After undergoing surgery, there is a possibility you may need to continue wearing reading glasses or corrective lenses for some activities. This includes patients who drive at night or like to read. Since every patient heals differently after surgery, we will let you know what to expect.

Get LASIK in Nashville

LASIK may dramatically improve your vision and quality of life. Your candidacy depends on a comprehensive exam by an experienced doctor. The professionals at Wang Vision Institute understand that choosing the right surgeon is a huge part of your success. When you meet with Dr. Ming Wang and Dr. Josh Frenkel about LASIK in Nashville, we take the time to understand your personal needs and goals. Contact our clinic to learn more about laser correction surgery and how it works today.