LASIK is a widely performed procedure, with around 600,000 to 800,000 people getting it every year in the US. It can restore your vision in a single short visit, eliminating the need for glasses or contact lenses. But is LASIK safe for patients with autoimmune conditions? In this article, we discuss this question and talk about alternatives to this treatment.
Is LASIK Safe for Patients With Autoimmune Conditions?
In some cases, LASIK can be safe for patients with autoimmune conditions, but it is not automatically recommended for every such patient. The safety of the procedure depends on the type of autoimmune condition, how well it is controlled, and on the health of the eyes.
The FDA reports that autoimmune and other immune-related conditions may affect healing after LASIK, thus making the procedure undesirable. The main reason for this is that the immune system’s abnormal response may interfere with the healing of the cornea, potentially leading to inflammation, infections, and other complications. For example, Sjögren’s syndrome, which significantly affects tear production and ocular surface health, is typically a contraindication to LASIK.
Your doctor and eye surgeon must conduct a thorough assessment and examination of your general health to determine if LASIK can be safe in your case. Key factors that will be considered include:
If your symptoms are in remission, well-controlled, or active
Ocular surface health, and whether dryness of the eyes is present
Corneal thickness and healing capacity
What medications you are taking, since some autoimmune medications can interfere with healing or immune response.
Are There Alternatives to LASIK for Patients with Autoimmune Conditions?
Some alternative procedures to LASIK might be considered for patients with autoimmune conditions:
PRK (Photorefractive Keratectomy)
During this procedure, your surgeon removes the thin surface layer of the cornea (epithelium) and then reshapes the cornea with a laser. This procedure might be safer for patients with autoimmune conditions in some cases, because no flap is cut and only the corneal surface is removed, reducing structural disruption and the risk of flap-related inflammation.
However, PRK typically has a longer recovery (several days to weeks) and can cause more discomfort immediately after the procedure. Additionally, the success of the procedure and recovery still largely depends on general health and the immune response.
SMILE (Small Incision Lenticule Extraction)
As the name suggests, this procedure uses a smaller incision than LASIK, potentially causing less nerve damage and less dryness after surgery. It also offers faster recovery compared to PRK. However, it still alters corneal tissue and may pose risks for patients with autoimmune conditions.
Phakic IOLs (Implantable Contact Lenses)
During this procedure, a lens is implanted inside the eye (behind or in front of the iris), without interfering with the natural lens. Thus, the healing process does not rely on corneal surface regeneration. However, Phakic IOLs might pose a higher technical risk than LASIK and PRK, since this procedure is an intraocular surgery.
Non-surgical Options
Non-surgical options worth considering in cases when surgery is not desirable include:
- Scleral contact lenses ( large, rigid gas-permeable contact lenses that sit on the white part of the eye (the sclera) instead of resting on the cornea like regular contacts)
- Custom soft or hybrid lenses
- Updated glasses prescriptions
Make an Appointment at Advanced Eye Medical
If you are considering LASIK but do not know if the procedure is right for you, do not hesitate to schedule an appointment with an experienced eye surgeon at Advanced Eye Medical. Our specialists will carefully examine your case to determine if you are a good candidate for LASIK or require alternative treatments. We are looking forward to your visit.