LASIK: What You Need to Know
Before you consider LASIK you should have a complete eye examination and talk with your eye care professional about the potential benefits of LASIK, and the complications, risks and time required for healing. You will need a pre-surgical examination to determine if your eye is healthy and suitable for LASIK. The exam includes a physical and eye history. Both eyes will be checked and dilated. Your cornea will be mapped by computer to determine if it is smooth and properly shaped.
Before surgery, talk to your doctor about any medicine you take. Also discuss whether or not you should eat and drink just before surgery. You should arrange to have someone drive you home after surgery and to your next doctor's appointment. You should not drive until your doctor gives you permission.
Summary of Important LASIK Surgery Information
- LASIK is permanent. Once performed, it is not reversible.
- LASIK does NOT eliminate the need for reading glasses, even if you have never worn them.
- Your vision must be stable for at least one year before LASIK surgery.
- Pregnant and nursing women should wait to have the surgery.
- You would not be a good candidate if you have any medical condition that makes would healing difficult.
- The LASIK treatment may cause you discomfort.
- The surgery is not risk-free. Please speak to your optometrist about the risks and benefits, before you agree to the treatment.
- LASIK is not a laser version of radial keratotomy (RK). These operations are completely different from each other.
- Some alternatives to LASIK include glasses, contact lenses, photorefractive keratectomy (PRK), and RK
- Some jobs, such as military pilots, have vision requirements that RK, PRK,or LASIK do not presently meet.