5 Signs You’re Ready for LASIK (And 3 Signs You Should Wait)

LASIK laser eye surgery is a transformative vision correction treatment that can free you from the hassle of wearing glasses or contact lenses. But how do you know if the timing is right for you? There are distinct signs that indicate you’re ready for LASIK surgery and a few reasons that suggest waiting might be a smarter choice.

As a leading provider of LASIK in Auckland, we'll guide you through five signs that LASIK is the right choice and three signs that it might be a better option to wait.

Key Takeaways:

• LASIK offers freedom from glasses and contacts.
• A stable vision prescription for at least a year is ideal for LASIK.
• To be a suitable candidate, your eyes need to be free from conditions like cataracts or glaucoma.
• Postpone LASIK if your vision fluctuates, you’re pregnant, or have certain eye conditions.

What is LASIK laser eye surgery?

LASIK (Laser-Assisted In Situ Keratomileusis) is a popular form of refractive surgery using advanced laser technology. It's designed to correct common vision issues like short sightedness, long sightedness, and astigmatism.

As a type of laser vision correction, the LASIK procedure involves reshaping the cornea with a femtosecond laser, followed by an excimer laser, to ensure light properly focuses on the retina. This allows for enhanced sight without having to wear glasses or contact lenses. Unlike many other vision correction methods, LASIK delivers excellent, long-lasting results while being minimally invasive and resulting in nominal downtime.

For those considering vision improvement, LASIK can be an alternative and better suited solution to other vision correction procedures, such as cataract surgery. However, figuring out whether you’re a suitable candidate for this laser vision correction procedure is key.

5 Signs You're Ready for LASIK

Undergoing LASIK laser surgery at the right time can make a significant difference in achieving the best possible results. Below are five clear signs that suggest LASIK could be the perfect solution for you now:

1. Stable Vision Prescription

If your vision prescription has remained unchanged in the 12 months, it suggests that your eyes have stabilised. As LASIK eye surgery produces the best and longest lasting results once your vision has plateaued, stable vision prescription is a key indicator that you're ready to successfully undergo this laser vision correction procedure.

2. Good Overall Eye Health

It’s important that your eyes are free from infections, injuries, or conditions like glaucoma or cataracts that could complicate the procedure. A comprehensive assessment of your general eye health can help confirm your readiness for this laser vision correction surgery.

3. Desire for a Glasses-Free Lifestyle

One telltale sign that the timing is right for LASIK is being fed up with the hassle of glasses or contact lenses. This transformative laser surgery offers you the freedom to live without glasses and contact lenses, improving both your convenience and lifestyle.

4. Realistic Expectations

Before deciding to go ahead with this form of laser eye surgery, it's imperative that you fully understand the outcomes, including the potential risks. While LASIK can significantly improve your vision, it’s important to understand that it mightn't result in perfect 20/20 vision for every patient. Having realistic expectations is key to your overall satisfaction.

5. You're Over 18

Age plays an important role in determining whether the time is right for you to undergo LASIK. Your eyes need to reach full development before having laser eye surgery, which is why eye surgeons recommend LASIK for patients 18 or older.

3 Signs You Should Wait

Though LASIK laser eye surgery can be an excellent option for lots of patients, specific situations indicate it might be better to hold off. Below, you can explore three signs that now may not be an optimal time for you to undergo this form of laser eye surgery:

1. Unstable Vision Prescription

If your vision is frequently changing, it’s a good idea to wait until it stabilises before thinking about undergoing LASIK. As discussed, having a consistent vision prescription for the 12 months leading up to your laser eye surgery can give you the best chance at optimal, long-lasting results.

2. Pregnancy or Breastfeeding

While pregnant or breastfeeding, you undergo various hormonal changes that can have a temporary effect on your vision. Because of this, it's advisable to hold off until after this period, when your vision has returned to normal, before considering LASIK.

3. Certain Eye Conditions

It may not be the right time for you to undergo LASIK if you have conditions such as dry eye, glaucoma, or thin corneas. While these conditions typically disqualify you from being a good candidate for LASIK laser eye surgery, your eye surgeon can recommend other vision correction treatments.

The LASIK Auckland Patients Recommend with Confidence

If you're considering LASIK laser treatment and wondering whether it's the right time for you, the next step is to get a professional assessment. As Auckland's premier eye clinic, we stand out with a boutique, personalised approach, a patient-centred experience, and a highly experienced team, delivering exceptional results.

Book your free laser assessment today to find out if LASIK is the right choice for you, and experience the unparalleled expertise that makes us a leader in advanced laser surgery.

See the cost of LASIK and book your free consultation

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