You are a good candidate for LASIK if you are…
Basically in good overall health
Over 18 years of age, (ideally over 21 years of age)
Nearsighted, farsighted, with or without astigmatism
Have vision that has been stable for at least 1 year (ideally 2)
Have Sufficient corneal thickness
Have no eye diseases
Have realistic expectations resulting from discussions with the eye surgeon

You are less-than-good candidate if your are
Under 18 and or your eyes are not fully matured
Involved in activities that could involve serious impacts to your eye (boxing)
A history of dry eyes
Suffer from diseases or medications that can slow healing
Pregnant or nursing
Too nearsighted or farsighted for current laser technology

You are Not a candidate if you…
Suffer from diseases such as cataracts, advanced glaucoma, thin corneal tissue, corneal diseases, or     any other eye diseases that jeopardize vision
Refuse to give informed consent. Patients must discuss the risks and benefits of LASIK with their eye     surgeon and give appropriate consent
Have unrealistic expectations.

Realistic Expectation and Risk
As with any surgical procedure, LASIK has an element of risk. The risk is considered minimal with the likelihood of serious vision-threatening problems to be less than one percent. While side effects and complications can occur in up to 5 percent of patients, under the care of your surgeon, most become resolved over time with your body's natural ability to heal. Some patients may experience glare and halos in dim light. Usually these resolve within a few months, but not always.
The goal of LASIK is improve vision and reduce dependence on glasses. Not every one who has the procedure will have 20-20 vision (The American Academy of Ophthalmology estimates that 7 out of 10 will achieve 20-20, but this does not necessarily mean they will have perfect vision) Mostly patients achieve legal driving vision, and many patients who have low to moderate nearsightedness can expect better. Retreatments, called enhancements, may be necessary to achieve better vision.

LASIK cannot stop the aging process. Over time you lose the ability to see up close. Therefore, if you are over 40, you will still need reading glasses.