Pediatric & Teen LASIK? What Parents Should Know

Educational only. LASIK is typically for adults with stable prescriptions. Discuss safer options for minors.

At a glance

• Age: LASIK is generally performed in adults; prescriptions should be stable.
• Teens: most are still changing, making permanent corneal surgery inappropriate.
• Alternatives: glasses, contacts, orthokeratology, and in select medical cases, PRK under specialist care.

Why age and stability matter

Eyes continue to change through the teen years. Performing permanent reshaping while prescriptions are shifting risks under‑ or over‑correction and future regressions. Stability over 12–24 months is a common prerequisite for adult LASIK.

Alternatives for younger patients

• Glasses/contacts: safest and adjustable as prescriptions change
• Orthokeratology: specialty night lenses that temporarily reshape the cornea; requires strict hygiene and follow‑up
• PRK in rare medical scenarios: reserved for specific conditions under subspecialist guidance

Sports and school considerations

• Eye protection is crucial in contact sports regardless of correction method
• Daily disposable lenses can reduce infection risk for active teens who wear contacts

Questions for your eye care professional

• Is my teen’s prescription stable? What trend do you see over 1–2 years?
• Which non‑surgical options best fit sports, school, and hygiene capabilities?
• If surgery is discussed for a medical reason, what are the long‑term trade‑offs?

Families should prioritize reversibility and safety until prescriptions have stabilized and a full adult candidacy evaluation can be performed.