Are You A Candidate for LASIK? (Updated January 2025)

Find out if you are a candidate for LASIK

LASIK Candidacy

Are You A Candidate For LASIK Eye Surgery?

LASIK eye surgery may dramatically improve your life and the way you see it. Find out if LASIK is right for you. Learn more about the eligibility requirements or take our short LASIK candidacy quiz below.

Take Our Candidacy Quiz

Unlike many other providers, The LASIK Vision Institute offers a free, no-obligation consultation, so contact us today and speak with one of our Eye Care Counselors to get started.

Before going to your LASIK eye surgery consultation there are some eligibility requirements that can guide you in deciding if LASIK is the right procedure for you. LASIK laser eye surgery can correct common eye problems like myopia (nearsightedness), hyperopia (farsightedness), and astigmatism.

Who Is a Good Candidate for LASIK Eye Surgery?

LASIK is suitable for many people, but specific criteria ensure safety and optimal results. At The LASIK Vision Institute, our experienced surgeons conduct comprehensive evaluations to confirm candidacy. Below are the key factors that make someone a good candidate:

LASIK Candidacy Requirements:

Age: You must be at least 18 years old.
Stable Vision: Your prescription should be stable for at least one year.
Eye Health: No active eye infections, severe cataracts, keratoconus, or certain retinal/optic nerve conditions.
Corneal Thickness: Your cornea must be thick enough for safe laser reshaping.
General Health: Conditions like diabetes or autoimmune diseases must be well-controlled. Medications that slow healing may disqualify you.

Learn more about LASIK benefits for your age group

Who Is Not a Candidate for LASIK Eye Surgery?

While LASIK is safe for most, certain conditions may disqualify you:
Unstable Prescription: Vision changes within the past year.
Eye Conditions: Severe cataracts, keratoconus, active infections, or certain retinal/optic nerve diseases.
Thin Corneas: Insufficient corneal thickness for laser correction.
Pregnancy: Hormonal changes can affect vision stability.
Uncontrolled Health Issues: Diabetes or autoimmune diseases that are not well-managed.
Medications: Certain drugs that slow healing, like corticosteroids, may disqualify you.

Not sure if you qualify? Visit a LASIK Vision Institute near you.

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Common Questions About LASIK Candidacy

Who is a good candidate for LASIK eye surgery?

Good candidates are at least 18, have a stable prescription, and have healthy eyes without conditions like severe cataracts. General health conditions, like diabetes, must be controlled, and you should not be on medications that impair healing.

Who is not a candidate for LASIK?

You may not be a candidate for LASIK eye surgery if your prescription is outside the treatable range, your corneas are too thin, or you have an active eye infection. Individuals with certain severe medical or eye conditions, as well as pregnant mothers due to hormonal fluctuations, are also typically advised to wait.

Am I a candidate for LASIK if I have astigmatism?

Yes, most people with astigmatism are candidates for LASIK, as modern technology can correct it effectively. Our surgeons use advanced mapping to customize treatment for your corneal shape.

Can I get LASIK if I’m over 40?

Yes, many people in their 40s and 50s are great candidates, especially if their prescription is stable. However, presbyopia (age-related near vision loss) may require alternative solutions like monovision LASIK.

What is the LASIK candidacy quiz?

A LASIK candidate quiz is a quick, online tool that uses a few simple questions to give you a preliminary idea of your eligibility. While they are helpful and a great starting point, they are not a substitute for a comprehensive, in-person consultation with a qualified eye care professional.

LASIK eye surgery can be a great vision correction solution for many people.

Click to learn more about LASIK facts by age range.