What prescription can LASIK correct?

LASIK can correct a wide range of prescriptions, but there are FDA-approved limits based on safety and effectiveness studies.

FDA-Approved Prescription Ranges

Myopia (Nearsightedness)

• Range: Up to -12.00 diopters
• Best outcomes: -1.00 to -8.00 diopters
• Higher prescriptions: May need more tissue removal

Hyperopia (Farsightedness)

• Range: Up to +6.00 diopters
• Best outcomes: +1.00 to +4.00 diopters
• Higher prescriptions: Higher regression risk

Astigmatism

• Range: Up to 6.00 diopters
• Can be combined with myopia or hyperopia
• Best outcomes: Up to 4.00 diopters

Factors That Affect Treatment Limits

1. Corneal thickness: More correction requires more tissue removal
2. Pupil size: Large pupils may limit high corrections
3. Corneal curvature: Affects how much can be safely reshaped

What If Your Prescription Is Too High?

ICL (Implantable Collamer Lens)

• Treats -3.00 to -20.00 myopia
• Treats up to +10.00 hyperopia
• No corneal tissue removal
• Reversible

Refractive Lens Exchange

• Replaces natural lens with IOL
• Any prescription range
• Best for patients over 45-50
• Also prevents cataracts

PRK

• Similar range to LASIK
• Saves corneal tissue (no flap)
• May allow treatment of slightly higher prescriptions