Why may I need LASIK surgery for nearsightedness?

LASIK surgery may be used to correct mild to moderate nearsightedness. It is also thought to be the best procedure for correcting high nearsightedness (greater than 7 diopters), although the results of surgery become harder to predict with higher amounts of nearsightedness.

In general, for correcting nearsightedness over 3 diopters, both LASIK and PRK are better than radial keratotomy (RK).

LASIK is an elective, cosmetic procedure that is done to correct nearsightedness in otherwise healthy eyes.

The procedure may not be done for people who:

• Have not had stable vision for at least 1 year.
• Are younger than age 18.
• Are pregnant or breast-feeding.
• Have a disease or abnormality of the cornea, such as keratoconus or corneal edema.
• Have an uncontrolled autoimmune or connective tissue disease.