Am I a Candidate for LASIK?

For some, wearing eyeglasses may feel somewhat novel at first. However, needing glasses to see street signs and to read labels or books can quickly become unpleasant. There are very clear benefits to the consistent use of eyeglasses when they are needed. When frustrations like glasses slipping down the bridge of the nose or impeding physical activity occur, people may do one of two things. They may not wear their glasses as directed, or they may consider having LASIK, the popular laser vision correction procedure.
Medical history. This initial step in our first visit enables us to identify any risk factors that may diminish the safety or efficacy of the LASIK procedure. It is important to provide full, honest information to the ophthalmologist so as not to increase surgical risks.
Corneal assessment. LASIK works by reshaping the cornea, a layer of tissue at the front of the eye. The thickness of this tissue will affect the procedure, as will the steepness of the curve of the cornea. A quick assessment identifies these important factors.
This factor is the measurement of the current prescription for vision correction. It is the most up-to-date prescription for eyeglasses or contacts. Ideally, a prescription will be stable for at least one year before LASIK treatment.
Intraocular pressure. Intraocular pressure is a fancy term for how much pressure there is inside the eye. Elevated pressure may indicate the onset of glaucoma. This is important to know because most patients who undergo LASIK are prescribed steroid eye drops after surgery. While these drops can minimize inflammation, they can increase intraocular pressure and create a risk for the optic nerve.
Eye moisture. The LASIK procedure may cause temporary dry eye symptoms for some patients. When dry eye disease already exists, there is a small chance that LASIK could make it worse. Specific tests can reveal important details about the tear film as surgery is considered.
Pupil size. An ophthalmologist may measure pupil size to determine the risk of a patient experiencing glares and halos around light sources after LASIK. This is a common side effect that may be more likely in people with larger pupils.
Learn more about LASIK. Call 540.722.6200 to schedule a visit to our Winchester, VA office.
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