Many people wonder if their vision is too poor for LASIK. If you have a high prescription or complex vision issues, you might be asking yourself the same question. The good news is that LASIK can correct a wide range of vision problems, but there are some factors that might affect your eligibility. Let’s explore how LASIK works and whether your vision might be too severe for the procedure.

LASIK and Prescription Limits
LASIK is designed to correct common refractive errors such as nearsightedness (myopia), farsightedness (hyperopia), and astigmatism. The procedure reshapes the cornea, helping light focus properly on the retina to improve vision.
For most people, LASIK can effectively reduce or eliminate their need for glasses or contact lenses. However, if your prescription is extremely high, it might not fully correct your vision. LASIK generally works best for:
- Nearsightedness up to -8.00 diopters
- Farsightedness up to +3.00 diopters
- Astigmatism up to 6.00 diopters
If your prescription is outside these ranges, LASIK may still help, but you you may be better suited for another procedure. Your eye doctor can help determine the best approach based on your individual vision needs.
Corneal Thickness and Eye Health
Aside from your prescription, the thickness of your cornea plays a critical role in determining your eligibility for LASIK. The surgery involves reshaping the cornea, so having enough corneal tissue is important. If your corneas are too thin, your doctor might recommend alternative procedures, such as PRK, which doesn’t require creating a flap in the cornea like LASIK does.
Additionally, your overall eye health is key. Conditions such as severe dry eyes, keratoconus, or other corneal irregularities might make LASIK unsuitable. Your doctor will perform a detailed examination of your eyes to ensure they are healthy enough for surgery.
What If LASIK Isn’t an Option?
If your vision is too severe or your corneas aren’t suitable for LASIK, there are still other ways to correct your eyesight. Procedures like PRK, as well as lens-based options such as ICL (implantable contact lenses), may be more appropriate. These alternatives can address high prescriptions and complex cases where LASIK might not be ideal.
It’s also possible that advancements in technology have made newer solutions available. Discussing your options with your eye doctor will give you the best chance to explore all the possible avenues for vision correction.
How to Know If You’re a Candidate
The only way to know if your vision is too poor for LASIK is through a thorough eye exam and consultation. Your eye doctor will assess your prescription, corneal thickness, and overall eye health to determine whether LASIK or another procedure is the right fit for you.
Take the Next Step Toward Clear Vision
If you’ve been told your vision is too bad for LASIK, it may be time to revisit your options. Book a consultation with SuraVision at 713-730-2020 to see if LASIK or another vision correction procedure could help improve your eyesight.