Patients of all ages who want to improve their eyesight consider LASIK an attractive option because the procedure is relatively painless, and has a short recovery time. But is there an ideal age to have LASIK surgery performed, or can it be done at any time.
LASIK surgery
LASIK surgery is a vision correction procedure that is used to address common eye conditions such as nearsightedness, farsightedness, and astigmatism. The operation is carried out with the help of an excimer laser that is used to reshape the surface area of the cornea.
LASIK is an outpatient procedure that takes about 15 minutes to perform. Downtime is minimal after LASIK, so most patients are able to return to work the day after the procedure.
Is there an ideal age to have LASIK surgery performed?
LASIK surgery is FDA cleared for individuals 18 years of age and older, but there is no ideal age to have the procedure done. However, ophthalmologists typically wait until a patient’s eyes have stabilized and settled, and this usually happens by the age of 18. Patients considering LASIK must also have healthy eyes.
Most LASIK surgeries are performed on people between the ages of 25-40, but LASIK has even been done on patients in their 70’sand 80’s. It all depends on your overall health, as well as the health of your eyes.
If you’re wondering if you would be a good candidate for LASIK, you should consult with an eye surgeon to find out for sure. Search our directory to find a practice in your area.
If you’re in the Northern Virginia or Washington DC metroareas, New View Eye Center, Reston, VAis our featured practice.
You can reach them at www.newviewlasereye.com or by calling (703) 834-9777.