With FDA approval and a high patient satisfaction rate, LASIK is perhaps the most well-known method of vision correction out there. Nevertheless, those interested in this procedure would do well to remember that it is still a form of refractive surgery. As any board-certified LASIK surgeon in Orange County will tell you, it is not for everyone. There may be factors or existing conditions that make you a poor candidate for the operation.
Just because your doctor advised against going through with LASIK now, however, doesn’t mean that you can’t have it done later on. Sometimes, postponing or delaying the surgery is the best course of action. If any of the following circumstances apply to you, you might want to wait just a little while longer.
You’re Simply Too Young for LASIK
Currently, the FDA has only approved LASIK for patients over the age of 18. Most providers also won’t perform the surgery on those who are not yet in legal age, and will often encourage young adults to wait a few more years before having the procedure. This is because the vision of those who are under 18 are still subject to many changes. For instance, you may have a case of refractive instability, which can cause complications during the operation. If possible, it’s best to wait until you’re in your mid-20s.
You’re Pregnant or Still Nursing Your Baby
Women can experience a lot of hormonal changes both during and after the pregnancy. Unfortunately, these can affect LASIK outcomes and might even pose risks to a developing baby. Medication given before the surgery, for example, may get passed onto the baby. Dry eye syndrome is also quite common in pregnant women. How the body heals after the procedure may also be hindered. Surgeons, therefore, would recommend putting off LASIK until a few months after you have finished nursing your infant.
You’re Taking Meds that Affect Healing
Some types of medication, such as steroids and retinoic acid, are known to affect the body’s ability to heal. Being on them can impede or disrupt the corneal flap’s process of recovery. Your best options are to wait until your condition has improved enough to not need medication or stop taking the drugs prior to your surgery. Ultimately, though, you have to follow the advice of your doctors to make a decision.
No vision correction surgery is worth risking your health and safety for. If delaying the procedure for a few months or years will improve its results, then it will be worth the wait. Having your candidacy for LASIK assessed at reputable clinics, like Excel Laser Vision Institute, is crucial for determining when to get the operation.
