By now you’ve probably heard all about the amazing benefits of laser eye surgery – it’s quick, it’s painless, no more glasses, etc. And while there are some risks associated with laser eye surgeries, LASIK eye surgery has become extremely routine and less risky for patients. There are a few qualifications that a patient must meet in order to receive laser eye surgery. Good candidates for laser surgery haven’t had recent changes in their prescription, have good overall health and are over the age of 18.
What is LASIK surgery?
LASIK is short for Laser-Assisted In-Situ Keratomileusis, which is a laser eye surgery that permanently changes the shape of your cornea. This procedure reduces or eliminates your need for glasses or contacts. At Louisiana Eye & Laser, we exclusively offer a procedure known as blade-free LASIK surgery. This is the safest, most-effective LASIK procedure available. Blade-free LASIK can correct nearsightedness, farsightedness and astigmatism.
Why do I have to be 18 to Have LASIK Eye Surgery?
Your eyes continue to change throughout childhood and your teenage years before your vision finally stabilizes. Having surgery before your vision has stabilized could lead to complications as you grow older. Additionally, younger patients may have medical conditions that have not yet been recognized and that could be impacted by having laser surgery. At Louisiana Eye & Laser, we require patients to be 18 years or older. However, it is generally advisable that patients wait even longer than this before having LASIK. If you are a young patient who is considering LASIK, you are never too young to talk to your eye care professional about LASIK and alternatives.
Is LASIK right for me?
LASIK surgery is an elective procedure, meaning that LASIK is not necessary for any patients. However, it may be the best option for healthy patients seeking an alternative to glasses or contacts.
LASIK may be right for patients who:
- Are over 18 years of age
- Have adequate corneal thickness
- Have not recently changed prescriptions
- Have an otherwise normal eye exam
- Have normal corneal topography
LASIK may not be right for patients who:
- Are under the age of 18
- Have recently changed prescriptions
- Have glaucoma
- Have dry eye
- Are pregnant or breastfeeding
- Have certain medical conditions, such as diabetes or arthritis
It is important to accurately disclose your medical history to your surgeon before you procedure. Even if you do or don’t meet the above criteria, only your surgeon can determine whether or not you are a suitable candidate for LASIK.
What are the risks of LASIK surgery?
LASIK is one of the safest procedures available. It was FDA approved in 2009 and is even approved by the U.S. military and NASA for pilots and astronauts. Still, there are some risks, including dry eye, glare, fluctuating vision and difficulty driving at night. Loss of vision is an extremely rare risk associated with LASIK. Choosing a skilled and experienced surgeon can dramatically reduce your risks when undergoing LASIK surgery.
LASIK Eye Surgery at Louisiana Eye & Laser
Louisiana Eye & Laser is the premier option for blade-free LASIK surgery in Louisiana. If you would like to schedule a consultation, you can call, go online or stop by any of our 13 convenient locations across the state. With over 40 years of experience, our excellent staff is here to help you with your LASIK surgery at every step of the way.
