| | Is LASIK Surgery Right for You? | Risks and Responsibility
This procedure, like any other, carries an inevitable level of risk. Results vary for each patient and may not last. There is some level of chance that your surgery may result in over-correction or under-correction. Additional procedures, if applicable, may be required.
Nevertheless, there are ways how you can significantly reduce the risk. Essential part of your success is to follow preoperative and postoperative instructions from your surgeon.
Your Profession
With success rates continually improving, many careers and services that previously prohibited the procedure are starting to come around. Pilots and members of the military may now qualify for vision correction. You must first check with your service or employer regarding any restrictions and conditions against laser eye surgery.
Refractive Instability
Patients who have refractive instability may need to adjourn the procedure until vision has stabilized. Common conditions that cause eyesight to fluctuate are Diabetes, pregnancy and nursing. If you are planning to conceive, wait at least six months after your surgery.
There is one more factor for refractive instability. You must also be at least 18 and without changes to your prescription for at least 12 months. Besides, certain medications can cause vision to fluctuate. Talk about all medications, including over the counter drugs and vitamin supplements with your surgeon.
The Health of Your Eyes
As part of the screening, the surgeon will give you a thorough medical eye exam. Any eye conditions that may prolong recovery will be measured carefully. The doctor will check for conditions such as dry eyes, conjunctivitis and allergies. You may need to wait until symptoms decrease prior to laser eye surgery.
There are particular eye conditions that may disqualify you from Lasik altogether. Glaucoma, Keratonusus and cataracts may not be appropriate. In this case, your laser eye surgeon can offer you other alternatives.
Eye surgery may not be appropriate for people with thin corneas. The use of a microkeratome blade can lead to complications for patients with insufficient cornea thickness. Also, patients with large pupils may be at risk for problems with night vision and sensitivity to light after the procedure. If symptoms do not fade after six months, corrective surgery may be necessary.
Your Medical History
In addition to determining the health of your eyes, the surgeon will examine your overall health. Any conditions that lower immunity like Rheumatoid Arthritis, Lupus, HIV and other immunodeficiency states can be a serious obstacle to the healing process. Medications such as steroids and retinoic acids also affect immunity.
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