Guide To Understanding LASIK Eye Surgery
Conditions That Increase Risks
Some underlying health issues can increase the risks associated with complications or issues from LASIK surgery. These conditions may also result in the outcome being less predictable. The conditions that can increase surgery risks include rheumatoid arthritis and other autoimmune conditions, persistent dry eyes, and a weakened immune system. The weakened immune system can increase the risks when it is weakened from immunosuppressants or the human immunodeficiency virus. Other conditions that can increase surgery risks include glaucoma, cataracts, eye injuries, inflammation of the cornea, and uveitis. Eye surgeons and other doctors may or may not recommend LASIK surgery for patients with these conditions. Each patient is evaluated based on their individual situation with these conditions.
Get the full details on who this surgery is not suitable for next.
Who It Is Not Suitable For
The previously discussed conditions increase the risk of complications from LASIK surgery. Thus, in some cases, doctors will determine that patients with them are not candidates for this surgery. In addition, it is worth noting that most doctors do not recommend this surgery if a patient's vision is unstable. This is also referred to as refractive instability and occurs when patients have had to change their prescription within the past year. This is more likely in younger patients, pregnant or breastfeeding women, and those who have fluctuating hormones because of an underlying condition, such as diabetes. Certain medications can also result in refractive instability.
Patients with dry eye syndrome are often unsuitable candidates too, as are those who have pupils that dilate more than seven millimeters in the dark and those with poor overall health. Individuals under eighteen years old are not suitable for LASIK surgery either, since their vision is still likely to change. Ultimately, a doctor will discuss whether or not a patient is a suitable candidate for LASIK surgery with them.
