Eye Care  Article Reprint

Original Article: http://www.doctorseyecarenetwork.com/articles/lasik/index.php

 

LASIK Vision Correction Surgery

These days, more and more people are turning to LASIK to fix their vision problems. During the LASIK (Laser-Assisted In Situ Keratomileusis) procedure, a doctor uses a laser to correct eye problems. Amazingly, LASIK greatly reduces and often eliminates a person's dependence on glasses and/or contacts. Relatively painless, LASIK has painlessly changed the lives of thousands of people.

Before considering LASIK correction you will need to talk with your doctor, as not everyone is a good candidate for the surgery. You'll also want to consider the pros and cons of LASIK, as this type of vision correction does carry some serious potential complications and risks.

It's important to also consider the cost of LASIK surgery, as many insurance providers and plans will not cover the cost of the surgery. LASIK can be very expensive and you'll need to be prepared financially before choosing LASIK.

Types of LASIK

LASIK is currently the most common type of laser vision correction performed in the U.S. Doctors use LASIK to correct near-sightedness, far-sightedness and even astigmatism. For each problem, the doctor makes specific adjustments. For example, for nearsighted people, the doctor flattens the cornea. In farsighted people, doctors use LASIK to make the cornea steeper. For astigmatism, the doctor uses the laser to make the cornea more spherical.

There are several types of LASIK vision correction eye surgeries, including LASEK, Epi-LASIK, Presby LASIK and IntraLase Bladeless LASIK. To find out which type of LASIK is best for you, you'll need to consult with your eye doctor. He will be able to discuss the best LASIK options for you.
Read on to learn more about LASIK.

Risks & Complications

Although LASIK is a relatively safe procedure, it is still surgery and comes with its own set of risk and complications. Before deciding to undergo LASIK, make sure you thoroughly understand the risks and complications associated with the vision correction surgery.

After undergoing LASIK, some people experience double vision, persistent dry eye, nighttime halos and difficulty seeing at night. LASIK complications might arise from the doctor making an improper incision in the cornea. The incision can be too deep or shallow, causing the eye's surface to become irregularly shaped. To reduce your chance of experiencing a risk or complication from LASIK, make sure you choose an experienced surgeon.

Keep reading to learn about the risks and complications of LASIK eye surgery.

Choosing a Surgeon

Once you have decided to pursue LASIK vision correction you'll need to choose a LASIK surgeon. You'll want to make sure you research your options thoroughly, as a bad LASIK job can have a profoundly negative impact on your life.

When choosing a LASIK surgeon, start by asking your eye doctor for a referral. She will most likely offer you the names of several LASIK surgeons. When you meet with the doctors, ask them several questions, including:

  • How long have you been performing LASIK? (Ideally, you'll want someone who has been practicing for three years.)
  • How many LASIK procedures have you performed? (Ideally, she will have performed more than 500.)
  • Have you ever had malpractice insurance denied?
  • Have you ever had your license to perform LASIK suspended, revoked or restricted?
Keep reading to learn how you can choose the right LASIK surgeon.