LASIK Eye Surgery – What You Should Know

What is LASIK?

How much do you know about LASIK eye surgery? LASIK is an acronym for Laser-Assisted in Situ Keratomileusis and it is a medical procedure to correct certain eye conditions. Covering the front part of the eye is a tissue called the cornea. LASIK eye surgery will change the shape of the cornea permanently. 

If you wear glasses or contact lenses then you may want to consider having this procedure. Many people have already had great success with LASIK eye surgery making it no longer necessary to wear glasses or contact lenses but how do you know if it’s right for you? To answer that question you need to learn as much as you can about this procedure and weigh all the facts carefully. Here’s a video to help you out. 

What Risks Are Involved in LASIK?

All medical procedures have risks and the same is true for LASIK eye surgery. Those who have had this procedure are happy with the results but occasionally the unexpected can happen. You need to know the risks of LASIK surgery in advance so you can make an informed decision on whether or not the surgery is for you.

List of possible risks associated with LASIK surgery:

• Vision Loss
• No Change in Your Eyesight
• May Develop Debilitating Visual Symptoms
• Dry Eye Syndrome
• Results Can Reduce With Age in Farsighted Patients
• Under Treatment or Over Treatment Is Possible

Keep in mind that these problems can occur but it doesn’t mean that you will be affected in any of these ways. Don’t make a decision based on what other people say even if they have had the procedure done with great success. Make your decision based on facts and only after discussing everything with a specialist. If you feel you are not ready for LASIK, then wearing reasonably priced prescription contact lenses may be a better solution for your vision problem.

How to Choose the Right Doctor

Knowing how to choose the right doctor is very important when you are considering LASIK. First, you want to find a doctor that is experienced in this procedure and follow the suggestions listed below.

When choosing your doctor:

• Don’t be afraid to check credentials to make sure they are as qualified as they say.
• Don’t let cost be a factor in choosing your doctor because your eyes are too important.
• Be cautious of services that make promises and guarantees. There are no guarantees when it comes to medicine.
• Make sure the doctor you choose uses FDA approved equipment.

Take time to talk to the doctor and go over the procedure with him. They should be able to tell you exactly what to expect before, during and after the eye surgery. Don’t be surprised if, after the surgery, your doctor will still recommend the use of breathable disposable contact lenses. Residual refractive errors are common even after LASIK.

Make sure that you tell your doctor about any medical conditions or eye conditions you have now or have had before. Discuss medications you are taking or have taken within the last six months. This includes over-the-counter medications and let him know about any allergies you have.

Before the decision is made, your doctor will perform a thorough eye exam. This is to see if you are an excellent candidate for the eye procedure. You will discuss the risks and benefits of surgery and what you should expect before, during and after the surgery. You will also discuss your responsibilities and ask any questions you have during this time.