(HealthDay News) -- LASIK surgery is performed on the eyes to improve vision, often reducing the need for glasses or contact lenses.

The U.S. National Library of Medicine, in cooperation with the American Academy of Ophthalmology, lists these guidelines for the ideal LASIK candidate:

• Being at least 18 years old. But, in some cases, young children with one very nearsighted eye and one normal eye may benefit from LASIK.
• Women should not be pregnant or nursing.
• Having healthy eyes with vision prescriptions that are relatively stable.
• Candidates should not be taking certain prescription drugs, including Accutane or oral prednisone.
• Being in overall good health, without chronic conditions such as diabetes, rheumatoid arthritis, lupus, glaucoma, herpes eye infections, or cataracts.
• Being unsatisfied with wearing glasses or contacts.
• Having realistic expectations of the surgery and results.