If you’ve been considering LASIK eye surgery to correct your vision, you may be wondering if you’re a good candidate for the procedure. LASIK has helped countless people achieve clearer vision and reduce their dependence on glasses or contact lenses.
However, not everyone is a good candidate for this procedure. Keep reading to learn what LASIK is, what happens during the LASIK consultation, and how to determine if you’re a candidate!
What is LASIK?
LASIK, or Laser-Assisted In Situ Keratomileusis, is a popular refractive surgery that corrects vision problems such as nearsightedness, farsightedness, and astigmatism. LASIK works by reshaping the cornea, the clear front part of the eye, using a precise laser.
This process allows light to focus properly on the retina, correcting your refractive error. Making sure you are a candidate for LASIK is an essential step in the process.
Ensuring you are a good candidate for LASIK allows you to have more confidence that the procedure will be safe and successful.
What Happens During LASIK?
The LASIK procedure is typically completed in just a few minutes per eye. First, your LASIK surgeon will use numbing eye drops to ensure your comfort during the procedure.
Then, using a laser, they will create a thin, hinged flap in the top layer of your cornea. This flap is gently lifted to expose the underlying corneal tissue.
Next, your LASIK surgeon will use an excimer laser to remove microscopic amounts of tissue and reshape your cornea based on your specific vision needs. Finally, the flap is carefully repositioned, and it will naturally heal on its own without stitches.
How Do I Know if I am a Candidate for LASIK?
While LASIK can be a life-changing procedure for many people, not everyone is a good candidate. The only way to know if you are a good candidate is to visit your eye doctor at VisionFirst Eye Center in Birmingham, Alabama, for a complete evaluation.
Good candidates for LASIK:
- Are at least eighteen years old
- Have had stable vision for at least one year before the procedure
- Have a sufficient corneal thickness
- Do not have any eye diseases or corneal abnormalities
- Are not pregnant or nursing
- Do not have certain autoimmune disorders or uncontrolled diabetes
It’s essential to discuss your medical history and any concerns with your eye doctor to determine if LASIK is right for you.
What Happens During a LASIK Evaluation?
To determine your candidacy for LASIK, you will need to undergo a comprehensive eye examination. During this evaluation, your eye doctor will:
- Review your medical history and any medications you are currently taking
- Measure your visual acuity, refractive errors, and pupil size
- Evaluate your corneal thickness and shape using advanced imaging technology
- Check for any signs of eye diseases or conditions that may affect your eligibility for LASIK
- Discuss your lifestyle, expectations, and any concerns you may have about the procedure
Based on the results of your evaluation, your eye doctor will advise you on whether LASIK is a suitable option for you. They will also discuss the potential risks, benefits, and expected outcomes of the procedure to help you make an informed decision.
LASIK can be a highly effective way to improve your vision and quality of life. If you are considering LASIK, schedule a consultation with your trusted eye doctor at VisionFirst Eye Center to take the first step towards clearer vision.
Do you want to learn if you might be a good candidate for LASIK? Schedule a LASIK consultation at VisionFirst Eye Center in Birmingham, AL, today!
