One of the most common LASIK-related questions we get at Clarity Eye Group is whether there is an age limit for laser vision correction. We always strive to provide our patients with honest and accurate information. If you are thinking about getting LASIK, we want you to have all of the facts right so you can make informed, empowered decisions about your treatment. Read on as we discuss age limits for LASIK.
Age-Related Considerations for LASIK Candidates
The only age-related restriction for LASIK, as set forth by the FDA, is that you must be at least 18 years old. Vision tends to fluctuate until the age of 18, as the eyes are still developing. Performing LASIK while your vision is in flux can lead to unpredictable and unsatisfactory outcomes.
Not everyone’s vision stabilizes at the exact same time. For some candidates, vision continues to fluctuate into their early 20s. This is why we will inquire as to your prescription history when evaluating you for surgery. We want to see a history of a stable prescription for at least six months to a year prior to you undergoing LASIK.
There is no upper age limit for LASIK candidates. Individuals well into their 40s and even 50s can still achieve great results with LASIK. The only requirements to have surgery are healthy eyes, good general health and a stable vision prescription.
If you are thinking about having LASIK later in life, there are some special considerations that should factor into your decision. Many people start to notice subtle changes in their near or reading vision after the age of 40. Presbyopia occurs when the naturally flexible lens of the eye thickens and loses its elasticity, causing a decline in near or reading vision.
If you believe you have presbyopia, it will not necessarily preclude you from having LASIK. However, it will influence your treatment plan. Laser vision correction can correct each eye to a different prescription — i.e., correct one eye for distance vision and the other for near vision. The eyes then work together to provide a full range of clear vision for most daily tasks.
Your eyes may start to change again around the age of 60 with cataracts, or a clouding of the natural lens. Having LASIK earlier in life does not prevent or delay the onset of cataracts. Furthermore, LASIK is not a suitable treatment for cataracts. The eye’s cloudy lens must be surgically removed and replaced with an artificial lens implant.
Talk To Our LASIK Surgeons
The information in this post is very general and may not apply to you and your eyes. The best person to determine whether you are a good LASIK candidate is a member of the Clarity Eye Group team. Call or email us to request a LASIK evaluation today!