Q. Who should not have laser surgery?
Doctor Answer is medically reviewed by SecondMedic medical review team.
Laser surgery, like any medical procedure, isn't for everyone. While it's generally safe and effective for many people, there are some cases where it might not be the best option. Here are a few situations where someone might not be a good candidate for laser surgery:
1. Unstable Vision: If your vision prescription has been changing frequently, it might not be a good time for laser surgery. Your vision needs to be relatively stable for the best results. If your prescription has been changing a lot recently, it could indicate underlying issues that need to be addressed before considering surgery.
2. Eye Health Issues: Certain eye conditions, such as glaucoma, cataracts, severe dry eye syndrome, or retinal disorders, may make laser surgery unsuitable or risky. These conditions can affect the outcome of the surgery or pose additional risks to your eye health.
3. Medical Conditions: Some systemic health conditions, like autoimmune diseases, diabetes, or immune deficiencies, might increase the risk of complications during or after surgery. It's essential to discuss your medical history thoroughly with your eye doctor to ensure laser surgery is safe for you.
4. Pregnancy: Pregnancy can cause hormonal changes that affect vision, making it less predictable. Additionally, the medications used during laser surgery may not be suitable for pregnant women. It's generally recommended to wait until after pregnancy and any breastfeeding period before considering laser eye surgery.
5. Thin Corneas: Laser surgery involves reshaping the cornea, the transparent layer at the front of the eye. If your cornea is too thin or abnormally shaped, it might not be suitable for certain types of laser procedures. Your eye doctor will assess the thickness and curvature of your cornea to determine if you're a suitable candidate.
6. Age: While age itself isn't a disqualifying factor, individuals under 18 typically aren't considered for laser surgery because their eyes are still developing. Similarly, older adults may have age-related eye changes that affect the suitability of the procedure.
7. Expectations: Unrealistic expectations can lead to dissatisfaction with the results of laser surgery. It's crucial to have a thorough discussion with your eye doctor about what laser surgery can and cannot achieve. If you're expecting perfect vision without the need for glasses or contacts, you may be disappointed.
Remember, these are just general guidelines, and the suitability for laser surgery can vary from person to person. The best way to determine if laser surgery is right for you is to consult with a qualified eye care professional who can assess your individual circumstances and discuss your options in detail.