LASIK Eye Surgery: Key Prescription Details and Eligibility Requirements You Need to Know

For many people, LASIK surgery offers the chance to see clearly without the hassle of glasses or contact lenses. At Primary Eye Care, we specialize in LASIK co-management, helping you navigate the process from initial evaluation to post-surgery care. Whether you’ve been wearing corrective lenses for years or are just starting to explore your options, understanding the key prescription details and eligibility requirements for LASIK is the first step toward clearer vision.

What Prescription Ranges Can LASIK Correct?

LASIK is designed to correct common refractive errors, including:

• Nearsightedness (Myopia): Generally up to -12.00 diopters

• Farsightedness (Hyperopia): Typically up to +6.00 diopters

• Astigmatism: Up to 6.00 diopters

If your prescription falls within these ranges, you may be a good candidate. However, your prescription should be stable—meaning little to no change in the last year—before considering LASIK. During your consultation at Primary Eye Care, we’ll assess whether your vision is suitable for surgery and discuss other options if needed.

What Else Determines LASIK Eligibility?

LASIK isn’t just about prescription numbers. Your overall eye health and lifestyle play a crucial role in determining whether you’re a good candidate for the procedure. Several factors beyond your vision prescription must be considered to ensure the best outcome.

One of the most important aspects is corneal thickness. LASIK works by reshaping the cornea, so having sufficient corneal thickness is necessary for a safe and effective procedure. If your corneas are too thin, an alternative treatment like PRK (photorefractive keratectomy) may be recommended instead.

Your eye health also plays a significant role in determining LASIK eligibility. Conditions such as keratoconus, severe dry eye, or active eye infections can make the procedure unsuitable. A comprehensive eye exam is essential to assess the overall health of your eyes and determine if LASIK is a viable option.

Age and prescription stability are additional factors to consider. While LASIK is FDA-approved for individuals 18 and older, the ideal candidate is typically in their mid-20s or older. By this age, their prescription has usually stabilized, meaning little to no change over at least a year. Stability is key to ensuring long-term success with LASIK.

Certain general health conditions can also impact LASIK candidacy. Autoimmune diseases, uncontrolled diabetes, and medications that affect wound healing can interfere with the body’s ability to recover after surgery. Your overall health will be assessed to ensure you are a good candidate for the procedure.

Lastly, your lifestyle and expectations should align with what LASIK can offer. If you lead an active lifestyle, LASIK can be a life-changing option, freeing you from the inconvenience of glasses or contacts. However, it’s important to have realistic expectations. While many patients achieve 20/20 vision or better, some may still need glasses for tasks like night driving or reading fine print. Understanding the potential outcomes can help you make an informed decision about LASIK.

The Role of LASIK Co-Management

If LASIK sounds like a good fit for you, Primary Eye Care will guide you through every step of the process. We work with trusted LASIK surgeons in Tupelo and the surrounding areas to ensure you receive expert care.

Our role in LASIK co-management includes:

• Pre-Surgery Evaluation: We’ll assess your eye health, prescription, and overall candidacy.

• Referral to a Trusted LASIK Surgeon: We connect you with experienced specialists who perform the procedure.

• Post-Operative Care: After surgery, we’ll handle your follow-up appointments to monitor healing and ensure the best possible results.

Schedule a Consultation Today

Choosing LASIK is a big decision, and we’re here to guide you through every step. From evaluating your candidacy to providing post-surgery care, our team ensures you have the support and expertise you need for the best possible outcome.

If you’re considering LASIK and want to know if you’re a candidate, schedule a consultation with Primary Eye Care. Visit our office in Tupelo, Mississippi, or call (662) 200-9842 to book an appointment today.