Questions About LASIK You Might Be Afraid to Ask

LASIK is one of the most common refractive eye surgeries performed to correct progressive vision loss. However, before you consider this surgery, you should discuss it extensively with your eye surgeon to understand the risks and benefits of this procedure.

The eye health and general wellness of every LASIK patient is unique, and your eye surgeon will assess these factors carefully before the procedure. During this time, it is also important to ask any questions you may have about LASIK. Below are some important questions that many patients hesitate to ask their eye surgeons before the procedure.

Am I too Young or Old for LASIK?

While most LASIK candidates are between 20 and 40 years old, the FDA-approved minimum age is 18, and eye surgeons will not clear patients younger than that for surgery. This is because, before the age of 18, your eyes are still at the development stage and might change during adulthood.

Many surgeons prefer to wait until your prescription has been stable for at least a year, which for some patients means their mid-20s. Similarly, as you age, other vision-associated changes can disqualify you from LASIK. Even though LASIK can correct nearsightedness, astigmatism, and farsightedness for adults, age-related eye conditions, such as presbyopia, cataracts, macular degeneration, and glaucoma, can prevent you from being cleared for surgery.

Can I Go Blind After the Procedure?

Going blind after LASIK surgery is extremely rare. However, like other eye surgeries, this procedure has multiple risks. Worsened vision following the procedure is a rare but possible complication that is generally solvable with follow-up surgery. While eye infections are another potential side effect, chances of eye infection after surgery are slim if you follow the post-operative instructions from your doctor.

How Many Times Can I Undergo LASIK?

Most patients recover from vision problems after one LASIK surgery, as the changes made to your cornea during the surgery are permanent. However, as you continue aging, your eye prescription gradually changes, possibly advancing your reversed myopia or hyperopia. If this happens, a repeat LASIK surgery may be necessary to correct vision changes once again.

Does LASIK Surgery Hurt?

LASIK eye surgery is generally painless. Your eye surgeon will apply anesthetic eye drops that will numb your eyes, curbing painful sensations. Most patients express only feeling minor pressure during the laser treatment stage of the procedure, which lasts 30 to 60 seconds. However, you may experience some discomfort and itching for a few hours after the procedure. Your surgeon will provide details about what to expect following the procedure, including instructions for a comfortable recovery.

When Is LASIK Not Recommended?

While LASIK has advanced over the years and many patients see well without glasses afterward, there are times when this procedure isn’t a viable option. LASIK may not be recommended for patients with significant dry eye syndrome, keratoconus, very large pupils, or very high refractive errors; dry eye can often be treated first, and another procedure may fit better. Hormonal changes during pregnancy and breastfeeding also mean waiting until afterward to receive LASIK.

Let Us Answer Your LASIK Questions

Like other corrective eye surgeries, LASIK can be a source of both excitement and anxiety in probable candidates. While many patients are eager to undergo surgery so that they can stop wearing contacts and glasses, some have questions and concerns that make them more hesitant to proceed. Regardless of your position, you should consult your ophthalmologist if you are considering the procedure. For LASIK and other eye care needs, visit our Pasadena office or schedule an appointment with Global LASIK & Cataract Institute for specialized care.