If I Am Unfit for LASIK
Not everyone is a candidate for LASIK — but there are almost always alternatives. Here's what disqualifies you and what your options are.
Keratoconus or Corneal Ectasia
AbsoluteKeratoconus causes progressive corneal thinning and bulging. LASIK would weaken the cornea further and is strictly contraindicated.
Corneal Cross-Linking (C3R) stabilises the condition. After stabilisation, ICL (Implantable Collamer Lens) may be an option for vision correction.
Thin Corneas (< 480μm)
RelativeStandard LASIK requires adequate corneal thickness for safe flap creation and ablation. Very thin corneas may not leave enough residual stromal bed.
EPI LASIK (no flap — preserves full stroma), SMILE Pro, SiLK (flapless lenticule), or ICL for very thin corneas with high power.
Unstable Prescription
TemporaryYour prescription must be stable (unchanged) for at least 12 months before LASIK. An unstable prescription means the eye is still changing shape.
Wait until your prescription stabilises. Use glasses or contacts in the interim. Re-evaluate annually. Most prescriptions stabilise by age 21–24.
Uncontrolled Autoimmune Conditions
RelativeConditions like lupus, rheumatoid arthritis, Sjögren's syndrome, or uncontrolled diabetes can impair healing and increase infection risk.
Once the condition is well-controlled with medication, LASIK may become an option. A clearance letter from your physician is required. PRK/EPI LASIK may be safer.
Pregnancy or Nursing
TemporaryHormonal changes during pregnancy and nursing can temporarily alter corneal shape and prescription. Results may be unpredictable.
Wait 3–6 months after stopping nursing for hormones to stabilise. Your prescription will be re-checked before proceeding.
Severe Dry Eye Disease
RelativeSevere, chronic dry eye can worsen after LASIK due to corneal nerve disruption. Mild dry eye can usually be managed.
Pre-treat dry eye aggressively (punctal plugs, cyclosporine drops). Consider SMILE Pro or SiLK which have the lowest dry eye risk. ICL is another option.
Under 18 Years of Age
AbsoluteEyes are still developing before age 18 and the prescription is likely unstable. LASIK is not performed on minors.
Glasses or contact lenses until age 18+. After 18, wait for prescription stability (12 months unchanged) before evaluation.
Active Eye Infections or Injuries
TemporaryActive conjunctivitis, keratitis, herpes simplex keratitis, or recent eye trauma must be fully resolved before LASIK.
Complete treatment and recovery first. Re-evaluate after 3–6 months of being infection-free.
Understanding Severity Levels
LASIK is not possible. Alternative procedures are recommended.
LASIK may still be possible with a different technique or after treatment.
You may become eligible after the condition resolves.
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