Can I Get LASIK if My Vision is really Bad?

Understanding Eligibility for LASIK Surgery

When your vision feels like it’s gotten so bad that you’re reliant on glasses or contact lenses every moment, the thought of undergoing LASIK surgery can seem like a dream come true. But many people wonder: “Is my vision too bad for LASIK?”

The truth is, LASIK surgery has helped millions of people see clearly again, even those with severe vision issues. However, there are factors that determine if you’re a good candidate for the procedure. Let’s explore these factors and how to know if LASIK is right for you.

What Does “Bad Vision” Mean for LASIK?

First, let’s define what “bad vision” means in the context of LASIK. There are three main types of vision problems that LASIK can correct:

1. **Myopia (Nearsightedness):** Difficulty seeing objects far away.
2. **Hyperopia (Farsightedness):** Difficulty seeing objects up close.
3. **Astigmatism:** Blurred vision caused by an irregularly shaped cornea.

The severity of these issues can vary from mild to extreme. LASIK works by reshaping the cornea, allowing light to focus properly on the retina, which can correct these refractive errors. But the degree of correction you need determines if LASIK is appropriate for you.

Is There a Vision Limit for LASIK?

LASIK can correct a wide range of prescriptions, but there are limits. Typically, most patients who undergo LASIK have prescriptions within the following ranges:

– **Myopia:** Up to -12.00 diopters
– **Hyperopia:** Up to +6.00 diopters
– **Astigmatism:** Up to 6.00 diopters

If your prescription falls outside these ranges, you may still be eligible for other types of vision correction surgery, such as PRK or implantable lenses (ICLs), which may be more suitable for extreme cases of nearsightedness or farsightedness.

Factors That Determine LASIK Candidacy

Even if your vision is classified as “bad,” LASIK isn’t solely dependent on your prescription strength. Several other factors come into play, including:

1. Corneal Thickness
LASIK involves reshaping the cornea, so it’s essential that your cornea has enough tissue to work with. If your cornea is too thin, you may not be a good candidate for LASIK. In some cases, PRK, which doesn’t require as much corneal tissue, could be an alternative.

2. Stable Vision
Your vision prescription must have been stable for at least one year. If your eyesight is still changing, it may not be the right time for LASIK. A stable prescription ensures that the surgery will give you long-lasting results.

3. Age
LASIK is generally recommended for people over the age of 18, once their eyes have fully developed. However, there’s no upper age limit, provided your eyes are healthy.

4. Eye Health
Conditions like cataracts, glaucoma, or severe dry eye can impact your eligibility for LASIK. It’s important to have a comprehensive eye exam to evaluate the overall health of your eyes.

What If My Vision Is Really Severe?

For individuals with extremely poor vision, beyond the range that LASIK can correct, other options may be available. These include:

– **Photorefractive Keratectomy (PRK):** A similar procedure to LASIK but doesn’t require creating a corneal flap, making it suitable for those with thinner corneas.
– **Implantable Collamer Lenses (ICL):** A permanent lens is inserted into the eye, offering a solution for those with very high prescriptions.

Both alternatives provide excellent vision correction for people who may not qualify for LASIK.

Next Steps: A Comprehensive Evaluation

If you’re considering LASIK but worried your vision may be “too bad,” the best thing to do is schedule a consultation with an experienced ophthalmologist. They will assess your prescription, eye health, and corneal thickness to determine if LASIK is right for you—or recommend other options that can achieve the same life-changing results.

At the Goldberg Centre, we prioritize personalized care. Dr. Goldberg will guide you through the entire process, from your initial consultation to post-surgery follow-ups, ensuring the best possible outcome for your vision.

Having “bad vision” doesn’t automatically rule you out as a candidate for LASIK. While there are limits to what LASIK can correct, many people with moderate to severe vision impairments are eligible for the surgery. For those with more extreme prescriptions, alternative procedures like PRK or ICL may be an option. The key is undergoing a thorough evaluation with a trusted specialist who can recommend the best solution for your unique vision needs.

If you’re tired of relying on glasses or contacts, consider taking the next step and explore your options for vision correction. You may be closer to clearer sight than you think!