Age and prescription stability
Refractive surgery is generally considered for adults whose prescription is suitably stable. The minimum screening age and the ideal timing are not necessarily the same for everyone. A prescription that continues to change can affect the durability of the correction.
Bring older prescriptions if available. They help the surgeon understand the pattern rather than relying on memory alone.
Corneal shape, thickness and eye-surface health
The surgeon assesses whether the cornea can safely accommodate a proposed treatment. Topography or tomography evaluates shape, and pachymetry measures thickness. Keratoconus or some suspicious patterns may rule out laser treatment.
Dry eye also matters. Symptoms and tear-film findings may need attention before elective treatment, and some patients may be advised against surgery.
General health, pregnancy and medicines
Eye diseases, uncontrolled health conditions, healing disorders and some medicines can affect the recommendation. Elective refractive surgery is generally deferred during pregnancy and breastfeeding; discuss your individual timing with the ophthalmologist.
Provide a complete medical history rather than assuming a non-eye condition is irrelevant.
Your expectations are part of eligibility
A suitable candidate should understand that glasses may still be needed for some tasks or later in life, and that visual symptoms or residual correction can occur. If a guaranteed outcome is essential to you, pause and discuss the uncertainty before proceeding.
Being advised to wait or remain with lenses is a valid clinical outcome, not a missed opportunity.
Educational self-check—not a diagnosis
Before your visit, ask yourself: Is my prescription stable? Have I had dry-eye symptoms or previous eye disease? Can I arrange travel and follow-up? Do I understand the risks and alternatives? Am I comfortable asking questions?
These questions prepare you for a consultation; they do not produce a qualify or disqualify result.
Medical information & sources
This page provides general patient education and does not diagnose candidacy or replace an ophthalmologist’s examination. Clinical content requires final treating-doctor approval before launch.