Ask the Doc: Will LASIK Surgery Work for Me?

“LASIK has been approved by the FDA since 1999 and is effective in treating nearsightedness, farsightedness as well as astigmatism. It’s currently the most popular elective procedure in the United States. That’s because LASIK surgery is safe, performed relatively quickly and offers a rapid recovery with minimal discomfort.

The best candidates for LASIK meet the following criteria:

• 18 years of age or older
• Need glasses or contacts to see clearly
• Have had stable vision over the past two years
• Have a healthy cornea, retina and eye pressure
• Have no major eye diseases
• Have no evidence of collagen vascular, autoimmune, or immunodeficiency disease
• Are not pregnant or nursing

LASIK Eye Surgery offers a wealth of benefits for the typical glasses or contact lens wearer. If it is determined that you are a good candidate for LASIK surgery, here’s what you can anticipate:

• Improved vision: Studies have shown that following LASIK eye surgery, 96% of nearsighted patients see 20/20 or better, 83% of farsighted patients see 20/25 or better and 92% of patients described their vision as “good” or “excellent.”
• Long-lasting results: The changes made to the eye during LASIK are expected to be permanent. Following a brief stabilization period, people should look forward to a long horizon with excellent vision. The need for additional procedures is rare (less than 2% in first year). If your vision changes slightly as you age, you may be a candidate for a touch up (“enhancement”).
• Short recovery time and quick results:  After surgery, you’re given a sleep aid to reduce the chance for any post-op irritation. When you wake up, you’ll already begin to notice improved vision. Most patients return to work and normal activities after a weekend of taking it easy.
• No more contacts:  While LASIK surgery costs quite a bit more than a 90 day supply of contacts, you only have to pay for it once! After several years, LASIK will begin to save you money and pay for itself by eliminating the need for contacts. Another plus – you won’t have to bother with contact solutions or deal with sticking your finger in your eye anymore.
• For most patients – no more prescription glasses: There is nothing wrong with glasses – but wouldn’t it be nice to have the option of not needing to wear them? LASIK patients are able to wear any style of shades they want without having to shop for special lenses or purchase prescription sunglasses. 

The first step toward enjoying all of the above is getting a LASIK consultation at Illinois Eye Center to determine whether or not you’re a good candidate. This consultation is free and includes the discussion of other alternatives that may be relevant to your unique visual needs.

Not quite ready for a consultation? No rush – just sign up to attend one of our free LASIK seminars today. It’s low key and will provide you with valuable information as you consider your options.” – Dr. Yannis Kolettis, fellowship-trained refractive surgeon