“Can children have laser eye surgery?”
My son, 10 years old, has really bad vision, but hates to wear his glasses and thinks that contacts are uncomfortable. He's so young, but should we consider LASIK? Is the surgery safe for kids?
11 Answers
Victor Villegas
Ophthalmologist
There are many factors that need to be taken into consideration to help determine if you are a good candidate. It is best to confirm with your doctor if you are eligible for laser eye surgery.
LASIK is not recommended for anyone under the age of 21
Lawrence M. Jacobson
Ophthalmologist
Safe but not indicated. The prescription is likely to change so you would be wasting money. Wait until prescription stops progressing
Peter J. Polack
Ophthalmologist
I would see a pediatric ophthalmologist for a discussion about this. Recently, there have been studies looking at performing laser vision correction in children who have high corrections and this may become a viable option. But right now this is being done at academic centers so you want to make sure you are dealing with a reputable surgeon and institution.
Scott Forman
Ophthalmologist
No this surgery cannot be performed in eyes whose refractive error (I assume myopia in the case of your youngster) will change as they grow. The laser surgery has to be done after they are 22-24 or so.
Rona Zel Silkiss
Ophthalmologist
There are special circumstances for which a child may require laser surgery, however, it is much preferred for the child to go through puberty, complete his growth and have stable vision before contemplating a laser procedure. It would be best to consult a refractive surgeon that cares for children to answer this question in detail for your child.
Robin D. Ross
Ophthalmologist
No, LASIK is not FDA approved under age 18. Certain refractive procedures must be older that 18
Anthony O. Roberts
Ophthalmologist
A person's vision does not stabilize till late teens or early 20s. Your son is not a candidate for Lasik because his vision is still developing. The earliest he can consider laser vision correction is 18 years old and then only if his vision has been stable over the 2 prior years.
We do not do Lasik for kids, because your son’s eyes are still growing and prescription will still change
LASIK is for patients over 21 with stable glasses prescriptions.
Not for kids. Just wear glasses it's safest.
