LASIK and Refractive Surgery Co-Management
‘Refractive error’ is a fancy way of saying you need corrective lenses to improve your vision. For most people, this means eyeglasses or contact lenses. There is a third option, however, that’s suitable for some patients. It’s called LASIK, and it’s a simple surgery that uses a small laser to reshape your cornea.
Your cornea’s main purpose is to reflect light onto the lens of your eye. The lens then focuses that light onto your retina, allowing you to see a clear image. However, if the curvature of your cornea is off, then things may appear out-of-focus. This is when your eye doctor in Indian Trail, NC, will suggest corrective lenses or the LASIK procedure. If you opt for LASIK, your eye doctor and your LASIK surgeon will pair up for your treatment. This is called co-management.
Why Can’t My Regular Eye Doctor Perform My LASIK?
LASIK uses a specialized set of skills that only an eye surgeon possesses. But not to fear, your regular eye doctor will be there with you in the beginning to refer you to a good surgeon. They’ll also be there for your follow-up care and continued routine eye exams. Having both professionals working together gives you an improved patient experience.
Can Everyone Have LASIK?
Sometimes, your eye doctor may discourage you from pursuing LASIK, simply because it’s not suitable for all patients. For instance, if you’re pregnant, have an autoimmune disorder, or are taking immunosuppressant medications, this procedure may not be right for you. The same is true for patients who have suffered an eye injury in the past or who currently struggle with another eye disorder such as glaucoma or cataracts.
Your optometrist has studied long and hard to learn why some treatments aren’t suited to all patients. It’s important to take their advice to heart, even if LASIK sounds like the solution you most desire. Both eyeglasses and contact lenses also correct refractive errors, and they pose little-to-no risks for most patients.
Will LASIK Correct My Vision Completely?
LASIK has the potential to greatly improve vision, though the best results usually take around two-to-three months after surgery to become clear. It is possible to have an overcorrection or an undercorrection during your LASIK procedure. This means the curvature of your cornea is still not exact. In this event, you may need a second operation to improve clarity.
Most people who have LASIK, however, are pleased with the result. This is a noninvasive procedure that uses a laser instead of a scalpel to shave minute segments off your cornea. There is minimal discomfort involved, and the results are usually worth the effort.
For more information on LASIK co-management in Indian Trail, NC, call Premier Family Eye Care today.
