Preparing for Your LASIK Consultation: Key Questions to Ask
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Despite being an extremely common procedure that is performed hundreds or even thousands of times per day across the country, it is important for patients considering LASIK to understand that this is still a surgical procedure that requires preparation, education, and commitment. At Ophthalmology Associates of the Valley (OAV), our team of ophthalmology specialists near Los Angeles, CA takes great care to treat each LASIK procedure and patient as unique — spending ample time discussing your concerns, needs, and goals and answering any questions you may have to ensure you go into your surgery feeling comfortable and confident. Take a closer look at what you can expect during your LASIK consultation, and review our suggested questions to consider asking your LASIK surgeon.
What should you ask during a LASIK consultation?
Your LASIK consultation is the first step in your journey toward better vision, and some may argue that it is one of the most important. It's the time to get your questions answered and to ensure that LASIK is the right choice for you. During your consultation, you should discuss your vision goals, any concerns you have about the procedure, and your medical history. Be sure to ask about the surgeon's experience, success rates, and what to expect during and after the procedure. It's also important to understand the risks involved and how to prepare for your surgery. Some of the key questions to ask your LASIK surgeon include:
- How many LASIK procedures have you performed?
- What are the potential risks or complications of LASIK?
- Is LASIK the option for my specific vision needs?
- How long will the recovery process take?
- What should I do to prepare for the procedure?
- Which type of LASIK do you perform?
Who is a good candidate for LASIK?
Not everyone is a candidate for LASIK surgery. Factors such as your eye health, prescription strength, and even your age can influence whether LASIK is suitable for you. However, our experienced ophthalmologists understand even the most nuanced and complex vision conditions and can often customize your LASIK procedure to align with your unique needs. During your consultation, your ophthalmologist will perform a thorough eye examination to determine the thickness of your cornea, the shape of your eyes, and other critical factors.
It's important to disclose any previous eye conditions or surgeries, as these could affect your eligibility for LASIK. Using innovative technologies like the Pentacam to determine eligibility and, if eligible, the iDesign laser LASIK system, our esteemed surgeons are committed to providing the most personalized care possible. For patients with hyperopia (farsightedness), refractive lens exchange (RLE) is often a superior alternative, offering more stable results, reducing the risk of dry eyes, and addressing future cataract development more effectively than LASIK.
How is LASIK surgery performed?
Understanding what happens during the LASIK procedure can help alleviate some of your anxiety and is an important topic to discuss during your LASIK consultation. We use an "all-laser LASIK" approach, meaning no blade is involved. The surgery typically takes about 20 minutes, and you'll be awake during the process. After numbing your eyes with no-sting drops, your surgeon will create a thin flap in your cornea with an ultra-precise laser. This flap is then lifted so that a laser can reshape your cornea, correcting your vision. You might feel some pressure during the procedure, but it is not considered painful. Afterward, the flap is placed back into position – without the need for sutures – and the healing process begins.
What is recovery like after LASIK?
The recovery process after LASIK is usually quick, but it's important to follow your surgeon's instructions closely to ensure the best possible results. Most patients experience improved vision within 24 hours, but it's normal to have some blurry vision, dry eyes, or mild discomfort initially. You should avoid strenuous activities, swimming, or rubbing your eyes for a few weeks. Your doctor will schedule follow-up appointments to monitor your healing process and ensure everything is on track to set you up for the most successful recovery and optimal results possible.
Get clearer vision the easy way with LASIK surgery in Los Angeles, CA
When it comes to having surgery on your eyes, it's understandable to feel nervous or anxious — but choosing a highly qualified and experienced LASIK ophthalmologist and asking the right questions during your LASIK consultation can help to calm your nerves so that you can start focusing on the excitement of regaining clearer vision. To learn more about your options for LASIK laser eye surgery, call Ophthalmology Associates of the Valley near Los Angeles to schedule your consultation with one of our dedicated, board-certified ophthalmologists today.