Preparing for any surgical procedure can be nerve wracking, and you may feel that way about your LASIK eye surgery. Even if you aren’t nervous, it’s still important to get to know your surgeon ahead of time, and ask plenty of questions during your consultation. Asking the right questions ahead of time will help you understand any potential risks, as well as what to expect before, during, and after the procedure. This information can help you make an informed decision and go into the procedure mentally and physically prepared.
The following 10 questions are vital to discuss with your LASIK surgeon. Our CLEI doctors will be happy to answer each one of them in detail before you schedule a surgery. With a team of highly skilled long-time surgeons on your side, you can approach your LASIK procedure feeling confident and comfortable.
#1 How will you determine if I’m a good candidate for LASIK?
Before undergoing LASIK surgery, it is essential to determine whether you are a suitable candidate. Not everyone is a good candidate, which is why open communication is key. Our LASIK surgeon will assess several factors to determine your eligibility for the procedure. They will evaluate your overall eye health, the stability of your vision prescription, and the thickness of your cornea. Additionally, they will consider any pre-existing eye conditions or other medical factors that may affect the success of the surgery. Your age, lifestyle, and expectations will be taken into consideration as well. By having a comprehensive consultation with one of CLEI’s surgeons, you can ensure that you are a good candidate for LASIK and minimize the potential risks.
#2 Who will perform my surgery?
With your vision at stake, knowing who will perform your LASIK surgery is of utmost importance. You want to ensure that your procedure is in the hands of a skilled and experienced board certified LASIK surgeon. During your consultation, ask about the qualifications and credentials of the surgeon who will be performing your surgery. Inquire about their experience with LASIK procedures, the number of surgeries they have performed, and their success rate. It is also beneficial to find out if the surgeon is a member of any professional organizations or has received any specialized training and board certification in refractive surgery.
For example, CLEI’s Dr. Steven Greenstein is board certified in Ophthalmology and is one of the first 700 surgeons worldwide to become a board certified fellow in refractive surgery. In addition, he teaches future eye surgeons about LASIK and other refractive surgery procedures at Rutgers – New Jersey Medical School. He is also a Team Ophthalmologist for the New York Jets football team and a member of the American Academy of Ophthalmology, American Society of Cataract and Refractive Surgeons, the Refractive Alliance, the Cornea Society, and the Society of Heed Fellows. By choosing a reputable and experienced surgeon like Dr. Greenstein you can have peace of mind knowing that your vision is in more than capable hands.
#3 What kind of LASIK technology will the surgeon use?
Advancements in LASIK technology have revolutionized the procedure, allowing for improved precision and better visual outcomes. But not all clinics use the latest technology. At CLEI, we utilize the most advanced laser technology available, and our institute is renowned as a leader in the field. Additionally, to select and customize your treatment, we use our cutting-edge diagnostic devices, and multiple surgical planning algorithms, which gives you the most accurate results. We believe patients shouldn’t settle for less when it comes to their vision.
In addition, the technology our surgeon uses can depend on what type of LASIK procedure you need, such as wavefront-optimized LASIK and topography-guided LASIK. Each technology offers unique benefits and may be more suitable for certain individuals. Our doctors can help you understand the technology behind the procedure, and why a particular LASIK method is best for you.
#4 How long does LASIK surgery take?
One of the concerns many patients have about LASIK surgery is the duration of the procedure. In most cases, LASIK surgery is a quick and straightforward process. The actual laser treatment time typically lasts only a few minutes per eye. However, it is essential to consider the overall time spent at the LASIK eye center, including pre-operative preparations and post-operative care. During your consultation, ask our surgeon about the estimated duration of the entire process. This will help you plan your schedule accordingly and ensure that you have enough time for a smooth and comfortable experience.
#5 Are there any risks I should be aware of?
Like any surgical procedure, LASIK surgery carries some risks. It is crucial to have a clear understanding of these risks before making a decision. During your consultation, ask your CLEI surgeon about the potential risks and complications associated with LASIK surgery, taking into account your specific case and medical history. At CLEI, we value open communication and will give you a clear view of any potential risks so you can weigh the potential benefits against the potential drawbacks and make an informed decision.
#6 What are the potential side effects of LASIK?
In addition to the risks, LASIK surgery can also have some side effects. While most patients experience successful outcomes, it is essential to be aware of the potential side effects. These may include dry eyes, temporary visual disturbances, and sensitivity to light. During your consultation, ask your CLEI surgeon about the likelihood and duration of these side effects. They will provide you with detailed information to help you understand what to expect during your recovery period.
#7 What will my recovery timeline look like?
Understanding the recovery timeline is crucial to prepare yourself mentally and make the necessary arrangements. After LASIK surgery, most patients experience improved vision within a few days. However, it is important to note that everyone’s healing process is different. During your consultation, you can ask our doctors about the expected recovery timeline and any restrictions or precautions you should follow during this period. By having a clear understanding of the recovery process, you can plan your activities accordingly and ensure a smooth transition to your new vision.
#8 What results can I expect from LASIK surgery?
The ultimate goal of LASIK surgery is to achieve clear vision without the need for glasses or contact lenses. However, it is important to have realistic expectations about the results. During your consultation, ask our CLEI surgeon about the expected visual outcomes based on your specific case. They will provide you with a comprehensive understanding of the potential improvements in your vision and any limitations that may exist. By having realistic expectations, you can appreciate the positive changes while understanding the potential need for additional vision correction methods in the future.
#9 What should I do to prepare for LASIK surgery?
Preparing for LASIK surgery involves a few essential steps to ensure a successful procedure. During your consultation, ask your CLEI surgeon to explain the specific preparations you need to make. They will provide you with detailed instructions on how to prepare your eyes, such as avoiding contact lenses for a certain period before the surgery. They may also advise you to stop using certain medications or eye drops in the days leading up to the procedure. By following these instructions diligently, you can optimize your chances of a smooth and successful LASIK surgery.
#10 How much will the procedure cost?
The cost of LASIK surgery can vary depending on several factors. During your consultation, one of our CLEI financial counselors will review the cost of your procedure in detail. They will provide you with a breakdown of the expenses, including the surgeon’s fee, facility charges, and any additional costs such as medications or post-operative visits. This is the perfect time to inquire about LASIK payment and financing options too. We offer diverse options to make care accessible, even if you have less than perfect credit. It’s our goal to make LASIK eye surgery financially feasible for anyone who can benefit from it.
Conclusion
LASIK eye surgery can be a life-changing procedure that provides freedom from glasses and contact lenses. Still, it is crucial to approach the process with knowledge and understanding. We encourage you to ask our CLEI surgeons all of these questions, and any others you might have, during your consultation. Remember, your eyes are precious, and prioritizing your vision starts with finding a team of skilled surgeons, like the one at CLEI, who can skillfully guide you through the LASIK journey.
Request a free LASIK consultation today and take the first step towards achieving clear and crisp vision.
