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LASIK Up-to-date Newsletter
LASIK: Getting Started - Are you a good candidate?
When you decide a Lasik procedure is something to consider, your next
step is determining if you are a good candidate for the procedure. Obviously,
you should discuss your personal condition with your opthalmologist.
However, there are a few things to consider when deciding if you are
right for Lasik.
Anyone considering Lasik must be at least 18 years of age.
Naturally, the other most important considerations are related to your
eyes. For instance, the most common conditions; nearsightedness, farsightedness,
astigmatism, or some combination of those, respond the best to Lasik
surgery. Also, if your prescription hasn’t changed much in the
last few years, or very little over a long period, you may be a good
candidate for Lasik. If your eyes have just begun to change, it may
be better to postpone your procedure, you may be a better candidate
later. Therefore, an important fact about Lasik surgery, is that it
is most effective in persons with common, stable, eye conditions.
The condition of your corneas is also important to a successful Lasik
procedure. Since the surgery involves changing the shape of your cornea,
you will benefit most if you have not had significant eye injuries,
or been told by the ophthalmologist that your corneas are scratched
or damaged. Naturally, you will receive a complete eye examination before
any surgery is planned, but it is good to mention to your doctor if
you’ve had problems recently, such as dry eye or redness and itching.
Your general health is also important. The best candidates for Lasik
are in good general health. Although it is still possible to have a
Lasik procedure if you have heath problems such as diabetes or high
blood pressure, it is best to discuss such health issues with your ophthalmologist.
A treatment plan can be developed specifically for you, to minimize
slightly higher risks related to the surgery. Be sure to mention to
your doctor if you are taking any medications regularly, for any conditions
including; arthritis, headaches, back pain, or breathing conditions.
If you suffer from allergies, it may just be simpler for you to postpone
your procedure until the intense period has passed. In most, if not
all of these health conditions, Lasik procedures are still possible
and successful, but you may need special consideration.
If you are pregnant, it is also best to wait until after your baby
is born before proceding with the procedure. Breast feeding moms should
talk to the ophthalmologist.
Lasik procedures are not effective for you if you’ve been diagnosed
with cataracts or other eye conditions such as glaucoma. However, other
procedures may be available for those conditions, speak with your doctor.
Now that you know how you fit the profile of the best Lasik candidate,
you’ve already started planning your future without those glasses.
Great start!
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