The age range for LASIK according to FDA labeling is 18+. For some of the earlier lasers approved it is 21+.
However, LASIK may be done safely on younger people under certain circumstances as an “off-label use.” I performed LASIK on my 16 year old son because he was within an easy range of correction and was a “contact lens abuser.” In general, your doctor needs to make sure your eyes’ refraction (glasses prescription) is fairly stable and free of any underlying anatomical anomalies that might compromise a good result.
At the upper age range, it is important to realize that after 40 you will be developing a new vision problem unrelated to any myopia (nearsightedness) or astigmatism called Presbyopia. This is the gradual, age-related loss of near vision that is not corrected by LASIK, PRK, or ICLs. You will experience Presbyopia whether you have laser vision correction or not.
Written by J. Trevor Woodhams, M.D. – Chief of Surgery, Woodhams Eye Clinic