Why has LASIK eye surgery suddenly become so popular? LASIK was once only associated with older adults, but the average age has fallen steadily in recent years. People are having LASIK at a younger age, out of a desire to live a more active lifestyle, and reduce the dependence on eye glasses and contact lenses. But what is the ideal age to have LASIK eye surgery.
LASIK Eye Surgery
LASIK eye surgery is a procedure that is done to correct refractive vision problems, namely – nearsightedness, farsightedness, and astigmatism.It involves the use of an FDA-cleared excimer laser to reshape the cornea, in order to improve vision. LASIK is an outpatient procedure that takes about 10 minutes to perform.
What is the ideal age to have LASIK?
Lasik surgery has been approved by the FDA for individuals 18 years of age and older. However, since prescriptions may continue to change well into early adulthood, some ophthalmologists advise against having LASIK performed before the mid-20s. Before undergoing LASIK,providers also recommend that patients have a stable prescription for a minimum of 2 years.
While there is no ideal age to have LASIK, eye doctors suggest patients wait until they are at least 21 years old. These days, the average age for LASIK is about 35 years, and surgery is most often done on people in the 20-40 age group. However, there have been cases in which LASIK has been performed on children with acute vision problems, or adults over the age of 70.
If you live in and around the Washington, DC, metro area, and would like to find out more about LASIK eye surgery, contact New View Eye Center, Reston VA. Call (703) 834-8187toschedule an appointment with Dr. Jacqueline Griffiths.