LASIK has emerged as a popular choice for vision correction, offering freedom from glasses and contact lenses. However, the decision to undergo LASIK isn’t solely based on preference; age plays a pivotal role in determining candidacy for the procedure. As individuals age, vision changes become more pronounced, making it essential to consider factors such as prescription stability and overall eye health when evaluating LASIK eligibility. Although many over 40 who are considering LASIK have concerns that they will still require reading glasses post-surgery, there are techniques, such as mono-vision, which can reduce or eliminate those concerns.
Minimum Age for LASIK
The FDA approves LASIK for individuals 18 years and older. However, it is a common misconception that eligibility for the procedure begins right at the start of adulthood. Due to the dynamic nature of vision changes in people in their late teens and early twenties, surgeons generally recommend waiting until the vision becomes as stable as possible (this could vary extensively between 18-29 and on average 25). The stability of a person’s prescription is important, as fluctuations can impact the effectiveness and longevity of the procedure’s results. Stable prescription is defined as no more than half a diopter of change compared to the previous year – while measured under similar conditions.
LASIK Surgery Age Limit
Older adults can benefit from LASIK, provided they meet candidacy criteria. Age-related eye conditions like presbyopia or macular degeneration may influence candidacy but don’t necessarily disqualify someone from LASIK. If cataracts are present, addressing them with surgery may negate the need for LASIK, as the implanted lens often provides adequate vision correction. Addressing the cataracts first also ensures patients receive the most suitable LASIK treatment if still needed post-operatively to correct any residual prescription.
Despite misconceptions, there’s no maximum age limit for LASIK and I have successfully performed it on individuals in their 70s and 80s
Advancements in technology have broadened candidacy criteria, making LASIK accessible to a broader age range. Innovations like femtosecond lasers and Contoura® have enhanced precision and safety, allowing for more customized treatments and improved outcomes. Additionally, mono-vision LASIK offers a viable solution for individuals experiencing presbyopia (blurred near vision). This approach corrects one eye for distance vision and the other for near vision. Once the eyes adjust, they can switch seamlessly depending on the need for near vision or distance vision, effectively reducing or eliminating the need for reading glasses.
Lance, a patient of mine who had cataract surgery 10 years ago is currently 79 years old and recently became interested in LASIK to correct his vision. He was found to be a good candidate for monovision. He had LASIK two months ago and is very happy with the results. He does not use glasses for distance vision or reading except for very small print.
Steve, on the other hand, is a 56-year-old pilot who came for a LASIK consult. He was interested in having good vision for both near and distance and was not found to be a suitable candidate for Monovision LASIK. Also, due to his profession, he needed excellent distance and near vision in both eyes. I recommended Refractive Lens Exchange (RLE) which is a lens-based procedure that can restore both near and distance. He had the surgery last month and is very happy with the outcome.
"I am looking forward to not wearing glasses or contacts anymore and go swimming. the procedure was so easy; piece of cake. I could see the clock without squinting. Dr. Cohen was very informative and made the whole experience pleasant. He walked me through everything. I am the biggest chicken, if I could do it, anyone can do it."
"Since I was four years old, I had been wearing thick glasses because of my high astigmatism. My wish had always been to see clearly without having to wear my glasses. The surgery has changed my life immensely. I chose Dr. Cohen for my LASIK because of his level of professionalism and his educational background. The surgery was easy, painless, quick and the minute he finished I was able to see perfectly without my glasses."
"I am an optometrist and chose Dr. Cohen for my cataract surgery with a multifocal lens implant because over the last 20 years of knowing him and referring many of my patients to him, he never made a mistake. I didn't feel a thing during the surgery. I couldn't be happier with my vision. I am happy with my choice of lens and excited that I never have to have anything done again!"
"Dr. Cohen came extremely recommended to me. I saw the results of other people that I know and really wanted to get a surgery too. I actually wanted to get it done a few times before, but he said, I am not ready yet, because I was abusing my contacts. I had to stop wearing them for a while. My vision a day after was 20/20. Thank you so much Dr. Cohen! You are a life saver."
"I work in Manhattan. I am an operating engineer. When I was 14 years old I needed a cornea transplant on my right eye. I really couldn't see well even after the surgery. I recently went to Dr. Cohen and he did a procedure on my right eye. It drastically improved my vision. I can actually street signs and news paper and television."
"I am looking forward to not wearing glasses or contacts anymore and go swimming. the procedure was so easy; piece of cake. I could see the clock without squinting. Dr. Cohen was very informative and made the whole experience pleasant. He walked me through everything. I am the biggest chicken, if I could do it, anyone can do it."
Factors Affecting LASIK Eligibility
LASIK eligibility is determined by factors beyond age, including eye health, prescription stability, and overall physical well-being. A thorough assessment evaluates corneal thickness, tear film stability, and the absence of conditions like glaucoma or keratoconus. Additionally, overall health considerations, such as autoimmune disorders or uncontrolled diabetes, may impact eligibility due to their effect on healing and surgical outcomes. Addressing these factors ensures that LASIK candidates are suitable for the procedure, enhancing the likelihood of successful vision correction.
Best Age to Get LASIK
While there isn’t a universal ‘best’ age for LASIK, optimal windows exist. Typically, individuals between 18 and 40 see the most significant benefits from LASIK. This age range often experiences stable prescriptions and may not yet require reading glasses. Getting LASIK at a younger age offers several advantages, including long-term freedom from glasses or contacts and potentially lower risks associated with the procedure. However, older adults can still benefit from LASIK, particularly if seeking to reduce their dependence on glasses. Ultimately, the best age for LASIK varies based on individual circumstances, such as overall eye health, prescription stability, and lifestyle factors. Consulting with a surgeon can help individuals assess their suitability for LASIK and make informed decisions about the timing of the procedure to achieve optimal results.
Considering LASIK? Consultation with a qualified ophthalmologist is the first step toward understanding your eligibility and potential outcomes. LASIK offers life-changing benefits; age shouldn’t deter you from exploring this option. Whether you’re 18 or 80, LASIK could be the solution to clearer vision and greater freedom.
