A top eye expert answers four frequently asked questions about laser eye surgery
Lasik is one of the most commonly performed eye surgeries today, used to treat nearsightedness, farsightedness and astigmatism. Laser-assisted in situ keratomileusis (Lasik) is acclaimed for its safety, speed, and a short recovery time, and advancements in technology over the last decade have yielded better outcomes than ever for the vision-correcting surgery.
“It’s not an overstatement to say that Lasik surgery changes people’s lives,” said Sandy T. Feldman MD, Medical Director of Clearview Eye & Laser Medical Center in San Diego and one the nation’s top eye surgeons. “It’s quick, painless, safe and effective, with more than twenty years of proven results.”
Nonetheless, a number of misconceptions about LASIK are still floating around, especially on the internet. Dr. Feldman offers four of her most frequently asked questions about the procedure (as well as her insightful and reassuring answers):
1. Is LASIK right for everyone?
If you are at least 18 years old and your prescription has remained unchanged for a year, you may be a candidate for LASIK. But that’s not to say LASIK is for everyone. Patients considering laser eye surgery needs to be thoroughly screened pre-surgery.
Anyone who has experienced vision changes in the past year, has a disease or disorder that may affect wound healing, or who actively participates in contact sports may be at risk for complications from LASIK. Patients with thin corneas or who need a greater degree of correction may wish to consider an alternative procedure. There are some fantastic new options these days, including a new permanent contact lens.
2. Is LASIK Safe?
LASIK is so safe that it’s become one of the most commonly performed surgical procedures.
The technology has advanced to such a degree that nearly everyone achieves 20/20 or better vision.
3. How do I choose a LASIK center and surgeon?
Not all LASIK providers are the same. You should choose a center based upon the surgeon, the technology and patient satisfaction rates. At Clearview, we provide patients with completely customized laser eye surgery LASIK and our patients satisfaction and well-being is our number one priority.
Always choose a doctor based on his/her experience, not on price! Ideally, you should meet the doctor and speak to some former patients about their experience. The surgeon's skill and the level of care provided is essential for the success of any surgical procedure. The lasers are the tools that the surgeon uses to perform the procedure, but technology doesn’t do everything. While we depend upon incredible technology to help us achieve fantastic results, this is surgery and still dependent upon the skill of the surgeon. The laser is one of the tools that the surgeon uses to perform the procedure. The surgeon must also create and manipulate the corneal flap, a delicate surgical procedure.
4. Is LASIK “real” surgery?
Even though it doesn’t take very long, LASIK is indeed real surgery. With proper care, it is not a dangerous or risky procedure. There are risks associated with LASIK, as there are with any procedure. However, several clinical studies have identified the chance of serious vision-reducing complications as being extremely low. Proper testing before the procedure can identify patients who are at a high risk for long-term risk for long-term complications. This is way it is very important to undergo a complete exam before the procedure and be diligent about coming back for any follow up checks or care. Taking your recovery seriously helps ensure a positive outcome.
“The outcomes and the technology used for Lasik just get better and better each year. Yet even though complications are extremely rare, Lasik is a surgical procedure and there are some risks,” said Dr. Feldman. “It’s very important to get a thorough exam with a qualified, board-certified eye surgeon. If you’re not a good candidate, be sure to listen to the advice of your doctor.”
Sandy T. Feldman MD, Medical Director of Clearview Eye & Laser Medical Center, is a world-renowned corneal expert who has successfully performed more than 20,000 refractive procedures. Clearview has been voted Best LASIK center by the San Diego Union Tribune (five times) and by CityBeat Magazine (three times). Dr. Feldman’s many awards include Top Doc San Diego; the Goldline Award, an honor granted to the top 10 laser eye care specialists in the U.S.; and the Silver Elite RealSelf Award. She has also been profiled in publications such as Forbes and Newsweek and makes frequent appearances as an expert commentator on TV talk shows and news programs. Dr. Feldman is a fellow of the prestigious American College of Ophthalmic Surgeons, as well as a member of the American Academy of Ophthalmology and the American Society of Cataract and Refractive Surgery. More details at clearvieweyes.com.
