Are you a good candidate for refractive surgery?

You might consider refractive surgery if you:

  • Wish to decrease your dependence on glasses or contact lenses.
  • Are free of eye disease.
  • Can accept the inherent risks and potential side effects of the procedure.
  • Have the appropriate refractive error.

While refractive surgery does offer some people an alternative to dependence on glasses or contact lenses, it’s not for everyone. You may not be a good candidate for refractive surgery if you are generally satisfied with glasses or contact lenses.


Refractive surgery, contact lenses and glasses each have their benefits and drawbacks. The best method of correcting your vision should be decided after a thorough examination and discussion with your Eye doctor.

Important Facts

  • 95 percent of people who have had refractive surgery can pass a standard driver’s license exam that requires a visual acuity of at least 20/40 without glasses or contacts.
  • Additional enhancement surgeries may be required to achieve your desired results.
  • Reading glasses may still be necessary for middle-aged and older adults.
  • Refractive surgery does not alter the aging process of the eye and does not prevent presbyopia. In fact, you may need reading glasses at a younger age.
  • If you have specific occupational goals, check with your prospective employer about regulations concerning refractive surgery.
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