For those in St. Clair Shores, Shelby Township, and the surrounding Michigan communities who have struggled with thick glasses or strong contact lenses for years, LASIK might seem like the ideal solution. But if your prescription is on the higher end, you may wonder: “Am I even a candidate for LASIK?”

At Eastside Eye Physicians, our ophthalmologists specialize in evaluating patients with high prescriptions to determine if LASIK is a safe and effective option. Let’s break down what you need to know about the limits of LASIK and what alternatives may be available if you’re not an ideal candidate.

Is There a Maximum Prescription for LASIK?

Yes, LASIK does have prescription limits. The FDA-approved range for LASIK typically includes:

•          Nearsightedness (Myopia): Up to -12.00 diopters

•          Farsightedness (Hyperopia): Up to +6.00 diopters

•          Astigmatism: Up to 6.00 diopters

However, just because you fall within this range doesn’t guarantee you’re a candidate. Your corneal thickness, eye health, and other factors play a crucial role in determining whether LASIK is the best choice for you.

Why Are There Limits?

LASIK works by reshaping the cornea using a laser to correct refractive errors. The higher your prescription, the more corneal tissue needs to be removed. If too much tissue is taken, it can weaken the cornea, leading to complications such as irregular healing, reduced vision quality, or even a condition called ectasia (corneal instability).

This is why a detailed consultation with an experienced ophthalmologist is essential before making any decisions. We conduct thorough diagnostic testing to assess your corneal thickness, pupil size, and overall eye health before recommending LASIK.

What If My Prescription Is Too High for LASIK?

If your prescription exceeds LASIK’s safe range, you’re not out of options. Photorefractive Keratectomy (PRK) may be a suitable alternative, particularly for patients with thin corneas or other factors that make LASIK less ideal.

PRK is a surface-based laser procedure that reshapes the cornea without creating a flap, making it a safer option for individuals with high prescriptions or corneal irregularities. While the recovery process is longer compared to LASIK, PRK delivers similar long-term vision correction results, allowing many patients to achieve clear, unaided vision.

Choosing the Right Procedure for You

Your vision is personal, and so is your treatment. The best way to determine whether LASIK—or another vision correction procedure—is right for you is to schedule a consultation with one of our ophthalmologists. We take the time to discuss your options, answer your questions, and provide customized recommendations based on your unique eye health and lifestyle needs.

Take the Next Step Toward Clearer Vision

Living with a high prescription doesn’t mean you have to settle for thick glasses or uncomfortable contacts. PRK offers a safe and effective alternative for those who may not qualify for LASIK, providing long-term vision correction tailored to your unique needs.

At Eastside Eye Physicians, our expert ophthalmologists in St. Clair Shores and Shelby Township will guide you through every step of the process to find the best vision correction option for you. Please call (586) 774-2020 or (586) 247-2020 to book an appointment today.