Is there an age restriction for Lasik?

Question

I know that doctors recommend to wait until you are at least 18, but I want to know if there is an age at which lasik is no longer as affective

I'm asking because I want to get this procedure done with my father. He keeps telling me that he cant do it because he is too old... is there really a recommended age to have the surgery by?

thanks!!

Answer 1

The average age range of patients having Lasik is around 23 to I'd say 55.....It is not worth it usually for someone on the verge of cataracts to have the procedure because in a couple years they can have cataracts with a multifocal lense implant that, when partially covered by insurance, comes out to a similar cost of Lasik plus if they opt for the multifocals they will not need readers or any other corrective lenses...as opposed to having Lasik at 60 then 5 years later having cataracts.....etc......You may meet a Lasik surgeon who will treat your father because they are greedy and want another surgery...not to have to wait several years for it...You may meet a surgeon more conservative who leads your father in the right direction.........Either way, the type of surgeon will most likely determine what they are willing to do.  If my father was older than 60 I would not tell him to have Lasik.

Answer 2

They could probably do it on him, but because of his age, he would almost certainly be needing reading glasses pretty soon, so he would be spending like 3 grand to; not have to wear glasses (for distance), and the next thing you know, he will need to wear glasses (for reading and close work). Seems like a waste of money to me.

Answer 3

There usually isn't an age restriction, but some people are not good candidates for the procedure due to eye shape, prescription, astigmatism, etc. Your eye doctor can tell you or your dad if you are good candidates. For you, however, they may not want to operate on someone too young. This isn't because it's dangerous, they just may think it is a waste. Usually your eye prescription needs to stay the same for quite a few years before they will operate, and if you are only 18, there is a great change your eyes will still get worse over the years. Again, your eye doctor can decide that.

Answer 4

I think it's on a case to case basis.  My father-in-law who is 73 this year had lasik surgery 3-4 years ago.  He said it was worth it.  He was the oldest patient the clinic has ever had.

Answer 5

i know that young people under 20 to 21can't get the surgury because the eyes are still finishing developing. if people get the surgery too early in life they will still get blurry vision a few months after the surgery. the vision from young people change often. i think that maybe the only limitation. i think old people can get eye surgery, but just go have a talk to his doctor to make sure if he is a good candidate for lasik.

Answer 6

As long as he doesn't have glaucoma, cataracts, or anything that effects the eyes.... I believe they can do it.  You should call up a local Lasik provider and make sure.  Usually a lot of places do free consultations.  Good Luck!

Answer 7

Must be at least 21years old and with stable or near stable degree for the past years