Talk to Your Doctor About What’s Right for You!
LASIK is an incredible opportunity for patients to restore their vision to 20/20 or even better! Returning to perfect vision is an exciting prospect, but you should have a complete understanding of the procedure before committing to it. Patient education is a pillar of our belief in quality eye care, so let’s go through some things you should know and give you some ideas of what to expect and discuss with your ophthalmologist.
What is LASIK?
First the basics. LASIK is an outpatient procedure to restore vision, reducing and in most cases eliminating, dependence on glasses and contacts. The procedure uses a laser to reshape the cornea, changing its focus. LASIK typically takes about 20 minutes and is one of the most successful procedures in the world. Your doctor will provide you with an in depth explanation of how the eye works, how refractive errors in vision can occur, and how LASIK can correct them.
What Device is Used For the Procedure?
We use Contoura® Vision, the latest in topography-guided laser technology, which maps the surface of the cornea to enhance vision quality. We map 22,000 unique elevation points per eye ensuring every procedure is customized to each patient. Contoura® Vision can correct nearsightedness, farsightedness, and astigmatism. Your doctor will provide additional details for your specific case, and how the device will improve your vision.
Am I a good candidate for LASIK?
There are many factors which can impact your candidacy for LASIK. The following are some common conditions that affect eligibility:
May Complicate LASIK
- Family history of thinning of the cornea
- History of eye disease, injury, abnormality, or surgery
- Taking amiodarone hydrochloride
- Taking sumatriptan
- Large pupils or very nearsighted
- Activities under poor lighting
- Allergies or eye rubbing
- Elevated eye pressure
At Risk for Poor Outcomes
- Moderate or mild dry eyes
- Past herpes eye infection
- Controlled glaucoma
- High impact activities like sports
- Controlled autoimmune or connective tissue disease
- Taking isotretinoin
- Controlled diabetes
- Repeated sharp eye pain due to EBMD
- Weakened immune system
- History of “crossed eyes”
- (strabismus)
- Decreased vision in one eye
Not a Candidate
- Severe dry eye
- Cornea not thick enough
- Thinning of the cornea
- Active eye infection or inflammation
- Recent herpes eye infection or problems resulting from past infection
- Active autoimmune or connective tissue disease
- Uncontrolled glaucoma
- Uncontrolled diabetes
- Currently Pregnant
What are the risks of LASIK?
Like any surgery, LASIK has risks. Most problems commonly occur immediately after surgery and lessen in 3-6 months. In rare cases these problems can be permanent and include but are not limited to vision loss, dry eyes, discomfort or pain, and visual symptoms such as glare, halos, starburst, or double vision.
Note LASIK does not prevent normal vision deterioration, and may impact future eye health when dealing with age related conditions. Your doctor will discuss and ensure you understand all the potential risks associated with LASIK.
What to Expect for Your LASIK Procedure
You’ll begin with an eye exam and share your vision history with your doctor. Once approved for surgery your opthamologist will discuss preoperative instructions, let you know what to expect during the procedure, and provide you with postoperative care instructions including follow up appointments. You’ll also be provided with contact information so you can reach out if you experience any unexpected symptoms or complications.
If at any time you are uncertain about your procedure or care instructions, don’t be afraid to reach out to your doctor! We’re here to help, and will do everything we can to ensure you meet your vision goals.
We’re proud to offer the most advanced LASIK suite in the Treasure Valley, and have performed hundreds of successful procedures. If you think LASIK may be right for you, contact us below to set up a consultation!
