LASIK Surgery Consultation and Evaluation

When it comes to LASIK surgery, there is a wide assortment of benefits to undergoing to the surgery, including obtaining freedom depending on eyeglasses or contact lenses. Finally having clear vision, you will be able to do some of the simplest things like getting up for a glass of water during the middle of the night or checking a text message on your smartphone without having to reach for your eyeglasses. You can also read that newspaper headline or your medicine bottle without having to put in your contacts.  Numerous LASIK patients find that it is even easier to exercise, play sports, etc. without glasses shifting around on the nose or fogging up. Plus, several patients say they are happier with their appearance.

Features to Look for in a LASIK Surgeon in Alabama

When you begin searching for an Alabama LASIK Surgeon, you will want to look for a few things, including the following:

  • Training – The surgeon needs to have completed medical school and ophthalmology/optometry residency training, in addition to specialized education in refractive surgery.
  • Experience – The surgeon needs to have performed plenty (tens of thousands, for example) of laser vision correction procedures prior to your own.
  • Technology – The surgeon needs to be using cutting-edge technology that helps to enhance the accuracy and overall results of laser vision correction treatment.

Is It Cheaper to Have LASIK than to Wear Glasses/Contacts?

Over time, it may be that LASIK surgery is a more cost-effective option than purchasing visual aids for a lifetime. LASIK does require a significant upfront cost, but it is a one-time cost, as opposed to repeated costs that are associated with contacts or eyeglasses, in addition to maintenance and upkeep costs.

What Can Be Expected Prior to and Followed the Lasik Procedure?

Prior to your LASIK procedure, a baseline evaluation of your eyes as well as your visual needs will be required. This will consist of a discussion with your eye doctor regarding your vision history and a comprehensive eye examination. As soon as the treatment plan and date of surgery has been decided, transportation to and from the eye surgery center will need to be arranged since you will be unable to drive yourself that day.

Following your LASIK eye surgery, you will likely experience slight itching, burning, and the feeling of a foreign body inside your eyes. It is also likely that you will notice starbursts, glare, or halos around light, in addition to experiencing sensitivity to light. These are only temporary side effects, and you should go home and try to go to sleep for the rest of the day.

A follow-up visit with your surgeon will be necessary a day or two following the procedure, as well as regularly for the next six months. After just a few days following the procedure, most patients notice a significant improvement in their vision.

Are You a Candidate for LASIK?

If you are 19 years of age or older and have been diagnosed with farsightedness, nearsightedness or have astigmatism, you may be a candidate for the LASIK procedure. You need to be in good overall health, and your eyes need to also be healthy and free of infection or disease. In order for your eyes to withstand the surgery, your corneas must be a certain thickness. In addition, your vision prescription must be stable for the previous year.

If you would like to learn more about the LASIK procedure, including whether you are a candidate, contact our offices to schedule a consultation.