10 Facts You Must Know Regarding LASIK and Laser Eye Treatment
Thinking of having laser eye treatment? Below are ten vital things you need to know about lasik.
Fact #1: Not everyone can undergo laser eye treatment. If you wear glasses or contacts, it doesn't mean that you can have laser eye treatment. You should consult with your ophthalmologist to make sure that laser eye treatment is the appropriate procedure for your eye condition.
Fact #2: Lasik is a procedure that you should never take lightly. So if you have determined that laser eye treatment is right for you, the next thing you need to do is find an ophthalmologic surgeon, preferably one who is board certified. Look into his or her credentials and experience. Find out if he or she can provide you with post-op consultations or if you will be referred to a different doctor.
Fact #3: Are you near-sighted or myopic? Do you have astigmatism? If you have any of these vision problems, lasik is a recommended procedure. If you have severe myopia, you may have to undergo several procedures.
Fact #4: If you have a history of dry eye, corneal disease or other eye conditions, lasik is not a recommended procedure.
Fact #5: During a lasik procedure, you will be awake. Thus, your surgeon should explain to you what will happen during the procedure. Likewise, you should express your concerns and questions beforehand so that your surgeon can reassure you.
Fact #6: Post-operative care is very important in a lasik procedure. Thus, you must follow post-op eye care to the letter. For instance, if you are prescribed to use eye drops after lasik surgery, you must apply the eye drops at the prescribed times or frequency. Doing so will help the cornea heal properly.
Fact #7: Lasik surgery is not miracle surgery. Don't expect to come out of surgery with perfect vision. Some patients' visions are corrected to 20/20 or 20/40 while others are not. Lasik surgery does not guarantee perfect results.
Fact #8: Lasik cannot correct presbyopia or far-sightedness that occurs in middle age. If you have this condition and still opt to undergo lasik surgery, you will still end up having to use reading glasses.
Fact #9: Lasik is not a procedure without risks. You should know that like other types of surgery, lasik has risks. You may have complications such as over correction, infections or damage to the cornea.
Fact #10: As with any other health condition, it is very important that you talk with your doctor about possible laser eye treatment or any other alternatives he or she can recommend.
