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LASIK Up-to-date Newsletter
LASIK: Knowing your risks
Deciding about a LASIK procedure is an important time. It matters,
because this is when you should consider all the facts. Naturally, like
any surgical procedures there are risks. Become well informed, and consider
the possibility that your procedure may produce less than perfect results.
You should know how this can happen, and what can be done to correct
or improve it.
Since not all patients have identical results from LASIK procedures,
not all patients have 20/20 vision as a result. Most [greater than 90%]
patients do achieve significant improvement in vision after surgery.
However the possibilty exists, although only slightly, that your procedure
may result in vision that requires that you still wear glasses for some
activities, e.g. driving at night.
It is also possible, that you may require an additional procedure to
refine your vision to a more accurate and better quality. Generally,
this is a repeat and adjustment of the first procedure. Because a LASIK
procedure involves changing the shape of the cornea, to improve your
focus power, your final vision depends on the new shape of the cornea.
If your procedure does not provide you with a marked improvement, your
doctor may recommend an additional procedure. In some rare cases though,
additional surgery is not possible. In such cases, glasses may be required
for detailed work, or reading.
Once you know all the facts about your LASIK procedure, you will be
assured the risks are very few. Your best outcome is a result of a comfortable,
frank discussion with your ophthalmologist, about your specific eye
condition and the laser treatments available. Ask your doctor to explain
how the procedure will change your vision for the better. Be sure to
ask your doctor also about the type of laser device to be used. There
is more than one kind. Your doctor is happy to discuss your treatment
with you, and why different lasers are used for different conditions.
Demonstrating with models, your ophthalmologist can represent your pre-treatment
condition, and what you can expect will change after your refractive
surgery. Understanding your risks, and the benefits will make you confident
that you’re making the right decision.
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