LASIKblog

LASIK is a useful technique for people over 18 years of age, and this includes people in their 70s, 80s, and 90s. There really is no upper age limit for LASIK. However, there are some special considerations in the elderly. Last week, I saw a 75 year old, nearsighted patient who wanted LASIK. But, she had mild cataracts in both eyes. While she did not need a cataract operation right away, it appeared that she might need one within the next 5 years. I suggested that she not do LASIK. When she eventually has cataract surgery, an intraocular lens of the appropriate power can be selected in order to correct her nearsightedness. If she had LASIK this year, she would also need to have a cataract operation in the near future. It's better to avoid two surgeries, if the goal can be accomplished in one surgery. On the other hand, we sometimes perform LASIK after cataract surgery. If the cataract surgery does not fully correct the eye, LASIK can often be used to make the vision better.

Mitchell H. Friedlaender, M.D.
Scripps Clinic Laser Vision Center
La Jolla, CA
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