Reviewed By: Dr. Jitendra Swarup, M.D.
For millions of people, glasses and contact lenses are an everyday necessity—but they don’t have to be. Laser vision correction, like LASIK and PRK, has been FDA-approved since 1999 and offers a safe and effective alternative that can dramatically lower or eliminate your dependence on eyewear.
Albemarle Eye Center specializes in modern laser eye treatment that is made for your eyes and your lifestyle. But how do you know if you’re a good candidate?
Here are five signs that indicate you may be ready to consider laser eye surgery for improved vision.
Your Prescription Has Been Stable for at Least One Year
If your glasses or contact lens prescription hasn’t changed significantly in the past 12 months, that’s a strong sign you may be ready for laser vision correction. A stable prescription allows for more accurate results and minimizes the likelihood of needing enhancements down the line.
Did you know? Most surgeons recommend at least 12–24 months of prescription stability before moving forward with laser eye correction.
Your Eyes Are Healthy
Successful laser eye surgery starts with healthy eyes. You should be free of conditions such as:
Your corneas should also be thick enough for reshaping—something we will assess during your pre-surgical consultation using advanced diagnostic imaging.
If LASIK isn’t right for your eyes, our team may recommend PRK or another type of laser treatment that better suits your needs.
You’re Over 18 and Finished with Vision Changes
LASIK eye surgery is FDA-approved for patients 18 and older, but most candidates see the best long-term results when their vision has stabilized in early adulthood. Hormonal changes during adolescence and pregnancy can temporarily affect eyesight, so timing is crucial.
If you’re 18 or older and your prescription is steady, you’re likely in the right window to consider laser eye correction.
You’re Within Treatable Prescription Ranges
Modern laser vision correction can address a wide range of refractive errors, including:
- Nearsightedness (up to -12.00 diopters)
- Farsightedness (up to +5.00 diopters)
- Astigmatism (up to 5.00 diopters)
Read more about these conditions.
If your prescription falls within these ranges, you’re likely a strong candidate for LASIK. If not, Albemarle Eye Center also offers alternatives like PRK and other advanced procedures that may better suit higher prescriptions or thinner corneas.
You’re Ready for a Long-Term Investment in Your Vision
The average person spends $500–$700 per year on contact lenses and related supplies. Over 10 years, that’s up to $7,000—and doesn’t include prescription glasses or annual eye exams.
By comparison, laser vision correction is a one-time procedure, typically costing $2,000–$3,000 per eye. Many patients at Albemarle Eye Center use pre-tax funds from their FSA or HSA, and we offer financing plans that make treatment affordable for a wide range of budgets.
Why Choose Albemarle Eye Center?
With locations throughout North Carolina, Albemarle Eye Center is a trusted name in advanced vision care. Our experienced team is led by Dr. Jitendra Swarup and uses the latest laser technology to deliver personalized treatment and long-term results. Whether you’re considering LASIK, PRK, or another form of laser eye treatment, we’re here to guide you every step of the way.
Ready to Find Out If You’re a Candidate?
The only way to know for sure is through a professional consultation. Our team will perform a full eye exam, review your medical history, and recommend the safest, most effective vision correction options for you.
**The information offered in this blog is not intended to substitute expert medical advice. Always seek a qualified healthcare professional for any questions or concerns you may have regarding your specific medical condition.**
