Safety First: A Comprehensive Guide on Who Should Not Have Laser Eye Surgery
Who should not have laser eye surgery is a question far more important than “Am I eligible?”—yet it’s the one most people forget to ask.
Laser eye surgery can feel like a miracle solution: no glasses, no contacts, instant clarity. But here’s the uncomfortable truth not everyone is a safe candidate, and for some people, the risks clearly outweigh the benefits.
If you’re considering LASIK or any type of laser vision correction, understanding who should avoid it altogether could protect you from long-term complications, regret, or even permanent vision issues. This article breaks it down clearly—no hype, no fear-mongering—just the facts you need before you sit in that surgeon’s chair.
What is the laser eye surgery?
Laser eye surgery is a medical procedure designed to correct common vision problems by reshaping the cornea—the clear, front surface of the eye—using a highly precise laser.
In simple terms:
Instead of relying on glasses or contact lenses to bend light correctly, laser eye surgery permanently changes how light enters your eye so it focuses properly on the retina. The goal is clearer vision with little or no need for visual aids.
What Vision Problems Does It Treat?
Laser eye surgery is commonly used to correct:
- Nearsightedness (myopia) – difficulty seeing far objects
- Farsightedness (hyperopia) – difficulty seeing close objects
- Astigmatism – blurry or distorted vision at all distances
Common Types of Laser Eye Surgery
While people often say “LASIK,” it’s actually just one type. The main procedures include:
- LASIK – the most well-known; involves creating a thin corneal flap
- PRK – no flap; surface-level correction with longer healing time
- SMILE – a newer, minimally invasive technique for certain patients
Each method reshapes the cornea differently, and not everyone is suitable for every type—which is exactly why understanding who should not have laser eye surgery matters so much.
Is Laser Eye Surgery Permanent?
The corneal reshaping is permanent, but:
- Your eyes can still change with age
- You may still need glasses later in life (especially for reading)
- Results depend heavily on proper patient selection
That’s why reputable surgeons focus as much on who should avoid the procedure as on who qualifies for it.
who should not have laser eye surgery
Although laser eye surgery is safe and effective for many people, it is not suitable for everyone. In some cases, having the procedure can increase the risk of complications, poor results, or long-term vision problems. Below are the main groups of people who should not have laser eye surgery, or who should delay it until conditions improve.
1. People With Unstable Vision
If your prescription has changed significantly in the last 12 months, laser eye surgery is usually not recommended.
- Common in teenagers and young adults
- Vision instability can lead to under- or over-correction
- Results may not last if the eyes are still changing
Most surgeons require stable vision for at least one year before considering surgery.
2. People With Certain Eye Conditions
Some eye diseases make laser eye surgery unsafe or ineffective, including:
- Keratoconus (or early signs of corneal thinning)
- Severe dry eye syndrome
- Glaucoma (in moderate to advanced cases)
- Cataracts
- Retinal disorders
Because laser surgery reshapes the cornea, any condition that weakens or affects it can significantly increase risk.
3. People With Thin or Irregular Corneas
Laser eye surgery removes corneal tissue. If your cornea is:
- Too thin
- Irregularly shaped
- Structurally weak
…the procedure could compromise eye stability and vision quality. This is one of the most common reasons people are told they are not good candidates.
4. People With Autoimmune or Healing Disorders
Conditions that affect healing can interfere with recovery and outcomes, such as:
- Lupus
- Rheumatoid arthritis
- Sjögren’s syndrome
- Uncontrolled diabetes
Poor healing increases the risk of infection, scarring, and blurry vision after surgery.
5. Pregnant or Breastfeeding Women
Hormonal changes during pregnancy and breastfeeding can:
- Temporarily change vision
- Increase dry eye symptoms
- Affect corneal thickness
For this reason, laser eye surgery is usually postponed until hormones stabilize.
6. People With Unrealistic Expectations
Laser eye surgery improves vision—but it does not guarantee “perfect” eyesight for life.
You may not be a good candidate if you:
- Expect zero visual imperfections forever
- Believe you’ll never need reading glasses
- Want surgery for cosmetic reasons only
Realistic expectations are critical for long-term satisfaction.
7. People With Certain Lifestyles or Jobs
Some professions and lifestyles increase risk, including:
- Contact sports athletes (boxing, martial arts)
- Military or law enforcement roles with high eye trauma risk
- Jobs with heavy dust or chemical exposure
In these cases, flap-related procedures like LASIK may not be advised, or surgery may be avoided altogether.
Bottom line:
The safest candidates are not just those who want laser eye surgery—but those whose eyes, health, and expectations truly support it. A thorough pre-operative eye exam is essential to determine whether you should proceed or avoid it.
Read:
Alternative vision correction options
If you fall into a group who should not have laser eye surgery, the good news is this: laser procedures are not the only way to achieve clear, comfortable vision. Several safe and effective alternatives exist—many of which are better suited for certain eyes, lifestyles, or medical conditions.
1. Glasses (Still the Safest Option)
Glasses remain the lowest-risk vision correction method.
Best for:
- People with unstable prescriptions
- Those with eye diseases or chronic dry eye
- Anyone who prefers a non-invasive solution
Pros
- No surgical risks
- Easy to update as vision changes
- Protect eyes from dust and UV (with proper lenses)
Cons
- Can be inconvenient for sports or active lifestyles
2. Contact Lenses
Modern contact lenses offer excellent vision correction when laser surgery isn’t suitable.
Types include:
- Soft contact lenses
- Rigid gas-permeable (RGP) lenses
- Toric lenses for astigmatism
- Multifocal lenses for presbyopia
Best for:
- People who want freedom from glasses
- Those with mild-to-moderate vision problems
⚠️ Requires good hygiene to avoid infections.
3. Implantable Contact Lenses (ICL)
Implantable Contact Lenses are surgically placed inside the eye without reshaping the cornea.
Best for:
- People with very high prescriptions
- Thin corneas
- Those who are poor LASIK candidates
Pros
- Reversible procedure
- High-quality vision
- No corneal tissue removed
Cons
- More invasive than LASIK
- Higher cost
4. PRK (For Some Non-LASIK Candidates)
While still a laser procedure, PRK may be an option for people who can’t have LASIK.
Best for:
- Thin corneas
- Active lifestyles (no corneal flap)
Trade-off:
Longer recovery time and temporary discomfort.
5. Orthokeratology (Ortho-K)
Special rigid lenses worn overnight reshape the cornea temporarily.
Best for:
- Children or young adults with progressing myopia
- People who want daytime freedom from lenses or glasses
Vision returns to normal if lens use stops.
6. Refractive Lens Exchange (RLE)
The eye’s natural lens is replaced with an artificial one (similar to cataract surgery).
Best for:
- Older adults
- Severe farsightedness
- Early lens aging or presbyopia
This option is usually considered when laser surgery is not appropriate.
Final Thought
If you’re not a candidate for laser eye surgery, that doesn’t mean you’re out of options. The best vision correction choice depends on your eyes, health, age, and expectations—not trends or marketing.
A qualified eye specialist can help you choose the safest and most effective alternative for your situation.
Relative Contraindications for Laser Eye Surgery
Relative contraindications are conditions that do not automatically disqualify someone from laser eye surgery, but they require extra caution, further testing, or treatment first. In some cases, surgery may still be possible—but only after careful evaluation by an experienced eye surgeon.
Understanding these factors is critical, especially for people who are borderline candidates.
1. Mild to Moderate Dry Eye
Dry eye does not always rule out laser eye surgery, but it increases the risk of:
- Prolonged discomfort
- Blurry or fluctuating vision
- Slower healing
In many cases, dry eye must be treated and stabilized before surgery is considered.
2. Borderline Corneal Thickness
If the cornea is thinner than average—but not dangerously thin—surgery may still be possible with:
- Alternative procedures (such as PRK instead of LASIK)
- Conservative correction targets
This decision depends heavily on detailed corneal mapping.
3. High Refractive Errors
People with very high levels of:
- Myopia
- Hyperopia
- Astigmatism
may still qualify, but outcomes can be less predictable. Some surgeons may recommend implantable contact lenses (ICL) instead of laser correction.
4. History of Eye Injury or Surgery
Previous eye trauma or surgery (such as retinal repair or cataract surgery) can affect:
- Corneal strength
- Healing response
- Visual outcomes
Each case must be assessed individually—there is no one-size-fits-all rule.
5. Controlled Systemic Conditions
Certain medical conditions may be acceptable if well managed, including:
- Controlled diabetes
- Mild autoimmune disease in remission
- Thyroid-related eye conditions (stable cases only)
Poorly controlled disease, however, shifts these from relative to absolute contraindications.
6. Use of Certain Medications
Some medications can interfere with healing or tear production, such as:
- Isotretinoin (Accutane)
- Certain antidepressants
- Long-term steroid use
Temporary discontinuation or timing adjustments may be required.
7. Age-Related Factors
- Very young adults may have unstable vision
- Older adults may have early lens changes or presbyopia
Laser eye surgery may still be possible, but expectations and technique selection must be adjusted.
Why Relative Contraindications Matter
Relative contraindications highlight one key truth:
👉 Being a candidate for laser eye surgery is not just about vision numbers—it’s about long-term eye health and safety.
A thorough pre-operative assessment is essential to decide whether surgery should proceed, be delayed, or be avoided entirely.
The pros of laser eye surgery
When performed on the right candidates, laser eye surgery can be life-changing. That’s why it remains one of the most popular elective medical procedures worldwide. Below are the main advantages that explain why many people choose it—after confirming they are suitable candidates.
1. Reduced Dependence on Glasses or Contact Lenses
One of the biggest benefits is freedom from daily visual aids.
- Many patients achieve 20/20 vision or better
- No more foggy glasses, lost lenses, or daily cleaning routines
- Especially convenient for travel, sports, and active lifestyles
For suitable candidates, this is often the most noticeable improvement in quality of life.
2. Quick Procedure and Fast Results
Laser eye surgery itself is remarkably fast.
- The procedure usually takes 10–15 minutes for both eyes
- Vision often improves within 24–48 hours
- Most people return to normal activities within a few days
This makes it appealing to those who want minimal downtime.
3. Long-Term Vision Correction
Laser eye surgery permanently reshapes the cornea.
- Results are generally long-lasting
- Most patients enjoy stable vision for many years
- Enhancements are possible if needed in the future
While aging eyes can still change, the original correction remains effective.
4. Cost Savings Over Time
Although the upfront cost can seem high, laser eye surgery may save money long-term.
- No ongoing costs for contact lenses or solutions
- Fewer eye exams related to prescription changes
- Reduced replacement costs for glasses
For long-term contact lens users, surgery can become cost-effective over time.
5. High Satisfaction Rates (for Proper Candidates)
Patient satisfaction is consistently high when eligibility criteria are respected.
- Most satisfied patients were carefully screened
- Realistic expectations lead to better outcomes
- Choosing the right procedure matters as much as the surgery itself
This reinforces why understanding who should not have laser eye surgery is just as important as knowing the benefits.
6. Improved Convenience and Confidence
Many patients report lifestyle improvements beyond vision clarity:
- Greater confidence in social and professional settings
- Easier participation in sports and outdoor activities
- No dependence on corrective devices in emergencies
These benefits are subjective—but commonly reported.
Important Perspective
Laser eye surgery offers real advantages—but only for the right person. The same factors that make it beneficial for some can make it risky for others. That’s why balanced decision-making, not marketing promises, leads to the best outcomes.
The cons of laser eye surgery
While laser eye surgery offers clear benefits for the right candidates, it’s important to understand the downsides and limitations before making a decision. Being aware of these cons helps set realistic expectations and reduces the risk of regret—especially for people who may already fall into groups who should not have laser eye surgery.
1. Not Everyone Is a Suitable Candidate
One of the biggest drawbacks is that laser eye surgery isn’t an option for everyone.
- Thin or irregular corneas
- Certain eye diseases
- Autoimmune or healing disorders
- Unstable vision
Many people are ruled out during screening, which can be disappointing after building high expectations.
2. Risk of Dry Eyes
Dry eye symptoms are one of the most common side effects.
- Can be temporary or long-lasting
- Symptoms include burning, irritation, and blurry vision
- More common in people who already have dry eyes
For some patients, dry eye can significantly affect comfort and vision quality.
3. Visual Side Effects
Some people experience visual disturbances after surgery, such as:
- Halos around lights
- Glare, especially at night
- Starbursts or reduced contrast sensitivity
These effects are often mild and temporary—but in rare cases, they can persist.
4. Results Are Not Guaranteed
Laser eye surgery improves vision—but perfection is not guaranteed.
- Some people may still need glasses for certain tasks
- Under-correction or over-correction can occur
- Enhancement procedures may be required
Outcomes depend heavily on proper screening and realistic expectations.
5. Vision Can Change Over Time
Even though the corneal reshaping is permanent:
- Eyes continue to age
- Presbyopia (age-related reading difficulty) still develops
- Some people need reading glasses later in life
Laser surgery does not stop natural aging of the eyes.
6. Surgical Risks (Though Rare)
As with any surgical procedure, there are risks, including:
- Infection
- Inflammation
- Delayed healing
- Corneal complications
Serious complications are uncommon—but not impossible.
7. Cost and Lack of Insurance Coverage
Laser eye surgery is usually considered elective.
- Often not covered by insurance
- Upfront cost can be significant
- Enhancements or follow-up care may add expense
This can make alternatives like glasses or contacts more practical for some people.
Balanced Takeaway
Laser eye surgery can be an excellent option—but only when the benefits clearly outweigh the risks for the individual. Understanding the cons is just as important as knowing the pros, especially if you fall into a higher-risk category.
Risk of side effects and complications
Like any surgical procedure, laser eye surgery carries potential side effects and complications. While most patients experience mild, temporary issues, understanding the full range of risks is essential—especially for those evaluating who should not have laser eye surgery.
Common Short-Term Side Effects
These are relatively frequent and usually improve within weeks or months:
- Dry eyes – the most common side effect
- Light sensitivity
- Blurred or fluctuating vision during healing
- Mild discomfort or irritation
For most suitable candidates, these effects are temporary and manageable with medication and follow-up care.
Visual Disturbances
Some patients notice changes in how they see light, particularly at night:
- Halos around lights
- Glare from headlights or screens
- Starbursts
- Reduced contrast sensitivity
These symptoms often fade over time, but in a small percentage of cases, they may persist and affect night driving or low-light activities.
Risk of Under- or Over-Correction
Laser eye surgery does not always achieve the exact intended correction.
- Vision may remain slightly nearsighted or farsighted
- Enhancement surgery may be needed
- Not all patients are eligible for retreatment
This risk is higher in people with very high prescriptions or borderline corneal measurements.
Dry Eye as a Long-Term Complication
For some individuals—especially those with pre-existing dry eye—symptoms can become chronic:
- Ongoing discomfort
- Need for long-term eye drops
- Impact on visual clarity
This is a key reason why dry eye is a major factor when determining candidacy.
Rare but Serious Complications
Although uncommon, more serious complications can occur:
- Infection
- Inflammation
- Corneal scarring
- Ectasia (progressive corneal weakening)
- Persistent vision distortion
These risks are significantly higher in people who should not have laser eye surgery but undergo it anyway.
Psychological Impact
Unmet expectations can also be a complication:
- Dissatisfaction with results
- Anxiety over visual side effects
- Regret due to lack of proper screening
This highlights the importance of realistic expectations and informed consent.
Key Safety Insight
Most serious complications are preventable with:
- Thorough pre-operative screening
- Honest disclosure of medical history
- Avoiding surgery when contraindications exist
- Choosing an experienced surgeon
Laser eye surgery is safest when eligibility rules are respected, not bypassed.
Contact Us
At Vital Global Care, your vision and well-being come first. Whether you’re exploring laser eye surgery, seeking alternative vision correction options, or simply need expert guidance, our team is here to help you make informed, confident decisions.
How Can We Help You?
- Learn whether you are a suitable candidate for laser eye surgery
- Get personalized guidance on alternative vision correction options
- Ask questions about risks, benefits, and recovery
- Receive support throughout your medical journey
Our experienced care coordinators are ready to listen, explain, and guide you every step of the way.
Why Contact Vital Global Care?
- Patient-focused, honest guidance
- Clear answers without pressure or exaggeration
- Commitment to safety, transparency, and long-term eye health
📩 Reach out to Vital Global Care today to schedule a consultation or request more information. Your journey to better vision starts with the right conversation.
FAQ
Who should not have laser eye surgery?
People with unstable vision, thin or irregular corneas, keratoconus, severe dry eye, certain autoimmune diseases, uncontrolled diabetes, or active eye conditions should not have laser eye surgery. Pregnant or breastfeeding women are also advised to delay the procedure.
Is laser eye surgery safe for everyone?
No. While laser eye surgery is safe for many people, it is not suitable for everyone. Safety depends on eye health, corneal thickness, medical history, and realistic expectations. Proper screening is essential.
Can dry eyes disqualify me from laser eye surgery?
Yes, moderate to severe dry eye can make laser eye surgery risky. Mild dry eye may be treated first, but chronic or severe cases often mean surgery should be avoided.
What happens if an unsuitable person has laser eye surgery?
Undergoing laser eye surgery when you’re not a suitable candidate increases the risk of:
- Chronic dry eye
- Blurry or distorted vision
- Night vision problems
- Corneal complications (such as ectasia)
This is why candidacy rules should never be ignored.
Can laser eye surgery fail?
Laser eye surgery doesn’t usually “fail,” but results can be less than expected. Some people may still need glasses, experience side effects, or require enhancement surgery.
Is laser eye surgery permanent?
The corneal reshaping is permanent, but eyes still age. You may need reading glasses later in life, and vision can change over time due to natural aging or other eye conditions.
What are the alternatives if I’m not a candidate?
If you should not have laser eye surgery, alternatives include:
- Glasses
- Contact lenses
- Implantable contact lenses (ICL)
- Orthokeratology (Ortho-K)
- Refractive lens exchange (RLE)
An eye specialist can help determine the safest option.
How do I know if I’m a good candidate?
Only a comprehensive eye exam can determine eligibility. This includes corneal mapping, tear analysis, vision stability checks, and a review of your medical history.
Is laser eye surgery worth it?
For the right candidate, yes—it can significantly improve quality of life. For the wrong candidate, the risks often outweigh the benefits. The decision should be based on safety, not convenience.
Should I trust online laser surgery quizzes?
Online quizzes can be helpful—but they cannot replace a professional eye examination. They should be used as a starting point, not a final decision-maker.
Conclusion
Laser eye surgery can be a life-changing procedure for the right person—but it is not a one-size-fits-all solution. Understanding who should not have laser eye surgery is just as important as knowing its benefits. Factors like eye health, corneal thickness, medical conditions, lifestyle, and expectations all play a critical role in determining whether the procedure is safe and worthwhile.
For some people, the risks and potential complications outweigh the advantages. For others, alternative vision correction options may offer safer, more suitable results. The key takeaway is simple: eligibility should always be based on medical suitability, not convenience or marketing promises.
A comprehensive eye examination and honest discussion with a qualified specialist are essential before making any decision. When it comes to your vision, the safest choice is always the most informed one.
