Are You a Good Candidate for LASIK? A Complete Checklist

The LASIK Candidacy Criteria

LASIK (Laser-Assisted In Situ Keratomileusis) permanently reshapes the cornea to correct refractive errors. It's one of the world's most commonly performed elective procedures — but it's not right for everyone. Here's what determines candidacy.

Age and Prescription Stability

You should be at least 18–21 years old, and your prescription should have been stable for at least 1–2 years. If your prescription is still changing, LASIK now may not give permanent results.

Corneal Thickness

LASIK removes corneal tissue. You need sufficient thickness (typically >500 microns before surgery, with adequate residual stromal bed remaining). Thin corneas may be better suited for PRK, LASEK, or SMILE procedures.

Corneal Shape

Keratoconus (irregular corneal shape) is a contraindication for LASIK. All patients should have corneal topography mapping before surgery. This is non-negotiable — operating on an irregular cornea risks serious complications.

Prescription Range

LASIK works best for:

• Myopia (nearsightedness): up to -10 to -12 diopters
• Hyperopia (farsightedness): up to +4 to +6 diopters
• Astigmatism: up to -5 diopters

Beyond these ranges, other procedures may be more appropriate.

Dry Eye Disease

LASIK temporarily reduces corneal sensation, which can worsen dry eyes. Moderate to severe dry eye disease is a relative contraindication. A thorough dry eye evaluation is essential pre-op.

General Health Factors

• Autoimmune conditions (lupus, rheumatoid arthritis) may affect healing
• Uncontrolled diabetes affects wound healing
• Pregnancy or breastfeeding — wait until hormones stabilize
• Herpes simplex keratitis history requires careful evaluation

LASIK in Turkey: Costs and Quality

LASIK in the UK costs £1,500–£3,000 per eye. In Turkey, top-tier clinics with latest ZEISS or WaveLight platforms charge €600–€1,200 per eye. The technology is identical — the cost difference reflects operational economics, not quality.

The Bottom Line

The only way to know for sure if you're a candidate is a comprehensive pre-op evaluation — corneal topography, pachymetry, pupil measurement, dry eye tests. Any reputable LASIK center includes this before committing to surgery.