Not everyone is suitable for LASIK surgery. Ideal candidates should:
Answer: LASIK (Laser-Assisted In Situ Keratomileusis) is a popular refractive surgery that corrects vision issues like myopia, hyperopia, and astigmatism by reshaping the cornea to improve how light is focused on the retina.
Answer: Ideal candidates are over 18, have stable vision for at least a year, healthy eyes, no severe eye conditions, and realistic expectations about the outcomes.
Answer: Potential risks include dry eyes, glare, halos, under or over-correction, flap complications, and infection. However, these are rare and usually manageable with proper care.
Answer: The LASIK procedure takes about 15 minutes per eye, with the actual laser application lasting less than a minute. Most patients notice a quick recovery and enhanced vision soon after the procedure.
Answer: Most patients can resume their normal activities within a day or two. However, it’s recommended to avoid strenuous activities, swimming, and rubbing the eyes for at least a week.
Answer: During the LASIK consultation, the ophthalmologist will perform a thorough eye examination, including measuring your corneal thickness, assessing your eye health, and evaluating your vision prescription. They will discuss your medical history, answer any questions, and determine if LASIK is a suitable option for you.
Answer: LASIK is effective for correcting common vision problems like nearsightedness (myopia), farsightedness (hyperopia), and astigmatism. However, it may not be suitable for certain complex vision issues or eye conditions. Your surgeon will assess whether LASIK is appropriate for your specific needs.
Answer: After LASIK surgery, you should avoid rubbing your eyes, swimming, or using hot tubs for a few weeks. It’s also advisable to limit screen time and avoid dust or smoke to prevent irritation. Your surgeon will provide specific instructions based on your recovery progress.
Answer: Follow-up appointments are crucial for monitoring your healing process and ensuring the best results. Typically, you’ll have follow-ups within the first 24 hours, one week, one month, and then periodically for the first six months. Your surgeon will schedule these based on your individual recovery.
Answer: If you have conditions such as dry eye, cataracts, or glaucoma, you may need to address these issues before considering LASIK. Your ophthalmologist will evaluate your overall eye health and recommend appropriate treatments or adjustments to ensure LASIK is a viable option.
Answer: If you notice any unusual symptoms such as significant vision changes, severe discomfort, or persistent dryness, contact your ophthalmologist immediately. Most issues can be resolved with prompt treatment and follow-up care.
Answer: Yes, LASIK can be performed on both eyes during the same surgical session. Many patients prefer this approach for convenience and to achieve balanced vision results. However, your surgeon will discuss the best approach based on your individual case.
Answer: LASIK surgery has been shown to be safe and effective in the long term, with many patients enjoying improved vision for years. However, as you age, you might experience presbyopia (age-related difficulty with near vision), which is not corrected by LASIK. Your ophthalmologist will discuss potential long-term considerations with you.
Answer: Many clinics in Delhi offer financing options, including payment plans or medical loans, to make LASIK more accessible. Check with the clinic for specific details and options available to you.
Answer: If you have had previous eye surgeries, such as cataract surgery or earlier refractive procedures, you may still be a candidate for LASIK, but it will depend on your specific situation. Your ophthalmologist will evaluate your eye history and current condition to determine the best approach.
Answer: Enhancement surgery may be needed if you have residual refractive error after the initial LASIK procedure. The likelihood of needing an enhancement depends on various factors, including the stability of your vision and the degree of your initial prescription. Your surgeon will discuss this possibility based on your individual case.
Answer: Dry eyes are a common temporary side effect after LASIK. Your surgeon will likely prescribe lubricating eye drops or artificial tears to alleviate dryness. It’s important to use these as directed and follow any additional recommendations to help manage and improve comfort.
Answer: LASIK surgery is performed under local anesthesia using eye drops that numb the surface of your eye. This ensures you are comfortable and pain-free during the procedure. You will be awake and aware but should not feel any significant discomfort.
Answer: LASIK surgery is often considered an elective procedure and may not be covered by standard health insurance plans. However, some insurance plans or medical savings accounts may offer partial coverage or reimbursement. Check with your insurance provider and the clinic for detailed information on coverage and payment options.
Answer: LASIK surgery has a high success rate, with many patients achieving 20/25 vision or better. Success rates can vary based on individual factors, such as the degree of refractive error and overall eye health. Your ophthalmologist can provide statistics based on their experience and the specific technology used.