Anyone who has read information online or recently visited their eye surgeon in Orange County is likely aware of the modern advancements in optometry that can instantly improve one’s vision without forcing them to go under the knife. With LASIK, patients can look forward to just that: a lightning-fast procedure that improves vision and corrects related underlying issues. Below, we will list the main 4 reasons why teens cannot have LASIK until they are adults.
4 Reasons Teens Cannot Have LASIK
But, unfortunately, laser eye surgery isn’t for everyone. Since LASIK involves the use of laser technology, there are quite a few safety measures that need to be in place in order for the treatment to properly work. This means that still-developing eyes are ineligible for the process.
The Eyes Finish Developing After Age 20
Before the age of 20, the average person’s eyes are still developing in many different ways. Just like the brain, the skin, the hair, and many other parts of the body, the eyes are not fully developed until adulthood. Since people’s eyes are so susceptible to rapid change during the teenage years, it is not a good idea to offer LASIK as a fix.
Doctors recommend that patients wait until their eyes are finished developing to evaluate the state of their eyesight and determine next steps from there.
LASIK Needs to Decrease Refractive Errors
The main goal of LASIK eye surgery is to change the way the lens refracts light. Doctors achieve vision improvement by changing the shape and curve of the lens until it can better magnify the world around it.
It starts out with a very small laser-guided incision made into the cornea. The doctor will then point the laser under this flap to make corrections to the lens. While there are many refractive errors present in children’s eyes, the volatility of their continuing development makes them unstable for this kind of treatment.
Only Adult Teens May Get LASIK
Most professional eye surgeons will follow FDA guidelines as well as surgical standards of practice and safety when deciding whether or not a patient is old enough for LASIK. Keeping in mind that the main goal is to reduce symptoms of astigmatism, nearsightedness, or farsightedness, many teens and young patients really want to learn more.
Published reports discuss the successful LASIK treatments in patients aged 18. And some eye centers may offer LASIK as a regular routine for those as young as 19 years old. Ultimately, it remains up to the doctor’s and patient’s discretion, which you can discuss during a personal consultation.
There Are Better Alternatives Available
While some younger patients may feel sad that they can’t enjoy all the benefits of a LASIK treatment, there are plenty of alternatives to keep them safe, comfortable, and healthy until they are old enough to invest in laser eye treatment for themselves. There are many stylish pairs of vision-correcting glasses and soft contact lenses that are easy to put in and take out.
The best way to find out what kind of eye treatment is best for you or your young one is to reach out to your eye specialists right away.
Find the Right Eye Treatment for You
While teens and those under the age of 18 cannot typically qualify for LASIK, there are a number of alternatives available to help them manage their vision. Get in touch with us today to learn more about our family-friendly eye treatment options.
If you are over the age of 19 and you want to address your failing vision with a long-term solution, LASIK might be the right move for you. Get in touch with our renowned Orange County LASIK specialist to learn more about the most advanced and permanent treatments for your vision.