The difficulty, expense, and continual fear of losing or ruining your corrective eyewear can be stressful. LASIK surgery can free you from constant worry. While the procedure offers excellent results for most people, it is crucial to consider various factors before deciding to undergo LASIK surgery, and age is one such critical factor.
We spoke to Dr Ajay Sharma, Chief Medical Director, EyeQ, who explained the importance of age in eye surgery and whether there is a minimum age requirement for LASIK surgery.
Understanding LASIK Surgery
LASIK, or Laser-Assisted in Situ Keratomileusis, is a surgical procedure that aims to correct refractive errors in the eye, such as nearsightedness, farsightedness, and astigmatism (imperfection in curvature of eye). The procedure involves reshaping the cornea using a laser to improve vision and reduce dependency on glasses or contact lenses. Dr Sharma added that it is essential to ensure that the timing is appropriate for the individual for the surgery even if the procedure has proven to be highly effective.
Eye Development And Stability
The human eye undergoes significant changes during childhood and adolescence. Dr Sharma said that vision development continues until the late teenage years, and the eyes tend to stabilise around the age of 18 to 21. Prior to this age, the eye's prescription may fluctuate, making it challenging to determine a stable and accurate prescription for LASIK surgery. Performing LASIK on eyes that are still in the developmental phase could result in suboptimal outcomes, as the prescription may change after the surgery.
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Risk Of Regression
Another crucial aspect to consider is the risk of regression after LASIK surgery. Regression refers to the potential for vision to deteriorate or for a prescription to change over time. While regression can occur at any age, it is more likely to happen in younger individuals due to the ongoing eye development process. Undergoing LASIK surgery too early may result in a higher likelihood of regression, necessitating additional procedures or the continued use of corrective eyewear.
Stable Prescription And Long-Term Results
Dr Sharma said, "A stable prescription is essential for LASIK surgery to achieve long-term success. It signifies that your eyeglass prescription has not altered in at least two years. Stable vision ensures that the surgery's effects remain consistent and do not require further adjustments." By waiting until the prescription has stabilised, individuals can enjoy the benefits of LASIK without the concerns of regression or the need for additional procedures. Opting for LASIK when the prescription has been stable for an extended period ensures a better chance of achieving long-lasting results.
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Patient Safety and Well-being
Dr Sharma further said that age is not the only factor to consider when determining if someone is a suitable candidate for LASIK surgery. Other factors, such as general health, eye health, and corneal thickness, are equally important. Eye surgeons prioritise patient safety and overall well-being, and they carefully evaluate each patient to ensure that they meet the necessary criteria for LASIK surgery. By considering age in conjunction with other relevant factors, eye surgeons can minimise potential risks and maximise the chances of a successful outcome.
Bottomline
While there is no fixed minimum age for LASIK surgery, it is crucial to consider the stability of the prescription and the individual's overall eye health before undergoing the procedure. Waiting until the eyes have stabilised and the prescription has remained consistent for an extended period increases the likelihood of achieving optimal and long-lasting results. The decision to undergo LASIK surgery should be made in consultation with an experienced eye surgeon who can evaluate the individual's unique circumstances and provide personalised advice.
