Yes, you can get LASIK if you have arthritis, but it depends on several factors, including the type and severity of arthritis and its impact on your overall health.
A thorough evaluation by an eye care professional is essential to determine if you’re a suitable candidate for the procedure.
LASIK (Laser-Assisted In Situ Keratomileusis) is a popular vision correction surgery that helps reduce or eliminate the need for glasses or contact lenses. Despite its effectiveness, not everyone is immediately a suitable candidate, especially those with autoimmune conditions like arthritis. If you’re living with arthritis and considering LASIK, there are certain health implications worth understanding before moving forward.
This guide will walk you through what arthritis patients need to know about LASIK, covering how arthritis may impact candidacy, what doctors evaluate before the procedure, how to prepare, and the aspects to address beforehand for a safe and successful surgery.
Understanding LASIK and How It Works
LASIK is a quick and effective procedure that reshapes the cornea to correct refractive errors such as nearsightedness, farsightedness, or astigmatism. Using a precise laser, the surgeon makes adjustments to your corneal tissue, allowing light to focus correctly on the retina for clearer vision.
While LASIK is highly effective for many people, certain health conditions can complicate the healing process or increase the risk of complications. Autoimmune disorders like arthritis often fall under this category, prompting extra caution before proceeding.
Types of Arthritis and Their Implications for LASIK
Arthritis is a broad term that encompasses different conditions affecting the joints. The most common forms relevant to LASIK candidacy include:
1. Rheumatoid Arthritis (RA)
RA is an autoimmune disorder that can lead to chronic inflammation, not only in the joints but also in other parts of the body, including the eyes. People with RA are more prone to dry eye syndrome, a condition where the eyes do not produce enough tears, affecting healing after LASIK.
2. Osteoarthritis (OA)
Unlike RA, OA is a degenerative joint condition that primarily affects joint cartilage and does not have an autoimmune component. While OA is less likely to affect LASIK candidacy directly, it’s essential to evaluate overall health and medication use.
3. Psoriatic Arthritis
Psoriatic arthritis may cause inflammation in and around the eyes, contributing to a greater risk of complications post-surgery. Dry eye and uveitis are more common in these patients, posing additional challenges for LASIK recovery.
4. Lupus and Other Autoimmune Variants
Though not strictly arthritis, autoimmune conditions like lupus often co-occur with arthritic symptoms. Such conditions are an important consideration because of the increased likelihood of impaired healing and pre-existing dryness in the eyes.
Key Factors That Affect Your Candidacy for LASIK
Several variables influence whether an arthritis patient can safely undergo LASIK. Here are the most critical factors:
1. Dry Eye Syndrome
Dry eye is one of the most significant challenges for arthritis patients, especially those with RA. LASIK may exacerbate dryness, potentially leading to discomfort post-surgery or slower healing. Your doctor will likely perform tests like the Schirmer test to measure tear production before determining your suitability.
2. Immune System Function
Since LASIK affects the cornea, an adequately functioning immune system is crucial for proper healing and minimising infection risks. Patients with compromised immune systems, as often occurs with some forms of arthritis and their treatments, may face longer recovery times or heightened complications.
3. Medications
Many arthritis patients take immunosuppressive drugs such as corticosteroids or methotrexate to manage symptoms. These medications, while effective for managing inflammation, may interfere with healing or exacerbate the side effects of surgery.
4. Stability of Prescription
A stable eye prescription for at least a year is important for LASIK. If your vision fluctuates due to arthritis medications or systemic inflammation, LASIK may not be suitable at the time. Your doctor will evaluate past prescription changes to determine if LASIK is feasible.
5. Overall Health
Beyond arthritis-specific concerns, your overall health plays a significant role in your candidacy. For example, uncontrolled diabetes or hypertension in conjunction with arthritis can increase risks during LASIK. Comprehensive preoperative testing will help rule out these additional concerns.
Preparing for LASIK as an Arthritis Patient
If you and your doctor determine that LASIK is appropriate, proper preparation is key to minimising risks and maximising results. Here’s what to keep in mind:
1. Work with a Specialist
Seek an experienced LASIK surgeon who has worked with patients who have autoimmune conditions like arthritis. They’ll have the expertise to evaluate your unique needs and make recommendations accordingly.
2. Disclose Medications
Provide your doctor with a full list of prescription and over-the-counter medications you currently take. This allows them to assess how your medications might interact with the procedure or post-surgical healing.
3. Treat Dry Eye in Advance
If you have any tendency toward dryness in your eyes, treating this condition beforehand is crucial. Your doctor may recommend prescription eye drops, artificial tears, or procedures like punctal plugs to improve tear production and retention.
4. Get Your Arthritis Under Control
Schedule LASIK during a time when your arthritis symptoms are stable and adequately managed. Flare-ups can affect your body’s recovery ability, delaying the healing process and increasing unnecessary risks.
5. Discuss Pain Management Options
If arthritis makes it challenging for you to stay comfortable in one position for long periods, speak to your surgeon about accommodations or pain relief solutions before the procedure.
What to Expect During LASIK
Once your candidacy is confirmed, the LASIK procedure is typically quick and painless. Here’s what the process involves:
- Preparation: You’ll lie down, and the surgeon will apply numbing drops to your eyes.
- Creating the Corneal Flap: Using a femtosecond laser or microkeratome, the surgeon creates a small flap on your cornea.
- Reshaping the Cornea: An excimer laser reshapes your cornea to correct refractive errors.
- Closing the Flap: The surgeon closes the flap, which adheres naturally without stitches.
- Recovery: You’ll rest briefly before going home, typically with detailed aftercare instructions.
Post-Surgery Tips for Arthritis Patients
Recovery from LASIK typically takes a few weeks, but arthritis patients may need to pay extra attention to certain areas:
- Follow Up with Your Doctor: Attend all post-op appointments to monitor healing and address concerns early.
- Stay Hydrated: Drink plenty of water and use all prescribed eye drops to stay ahead of any dryness or irritation.
- Rest Your Eyes: Avoid excessive screen time, reading, or exposure to harsh lights in the initial days after surgery.
- Manage Arthritis: Continue your regular arthritis treatment plan, but consult your doctors if you’re making any adjustments.
- Monitor for Side Effects: Watch for signs of complications such as excessive dryness, prolonged irritation, or infections, contacting your surgeon as needed.
Alternatives to LASIK for Arthritis Patients
If LASIK isn’t a viable option due to your arthritis or related health conditions, other vision correction solutions may be worth exploring:
1. PRK (Photorefractive Keratectomy)
PRK is a laser eye surgery similar to LASIK but without the corneal flap. It may be a better choice if dry eye is a concern.
2. Implantable Contact Lenses (ICL)
ICLs involve placing a thin lens directly inside the eye and are reversible, making them suitable for patients with fluctuating prescriptions or health concerns.
3. Advanced Glasses or Contact Lenses
If surgery isn’t advisable, advanced lenses can still provide excellent vision correction tailored to your needs.
Summing Up
Living with arthritis doesn’t mean you have to rule out LASIK, but it does require extra diligence and preparation. Talking candidly with an experienced eye surgeon and managing your arthritis symptoms paves the way for a safer, more satisfying outcome.
Ultimately, the best decision is one that aligns with your health needs and goals. If you’re considering LASIK, book a consultation with your eye care provider to explore your options further.
Clear vision could be closer than you think!
