The most important step in the LASIK process is to first undergo a comprehensive eye surgery assessment to ascertain that you are a qualified candidate for the LASIK operation. Through this you will be able to find out which among the refractive surgeries will be most suitable for you including what to expect after the operation and the outcome given your particular case. Normally, the pre-surgery examination will take 2-3hours depending on what is needed in your case.
Purpose of Counseling
Taking up counseling that is given by experts in the field of LASIK is highly recommended. The preoperative counseling and assessment is done so the patient will feel better in facing the surgery. In fact, the counseling will serve as a way of mental preparation and eradicates any unnecessary fear and pressure by clearing out the patient’s doubts about the process.
The Preoperative Examination
During the initial assessment your eyes will be screened. A baseline data of your eyes and vision will be obtained. It is in this time when mapping of your eyes will be done. The map will aid your physician in determining the best way to reshape your eye in order to give you the clearest possible vision after the operation is done.
Your Health Status and LASIK
A lot of things will be done through a series of steps to ascertain your candidacy. Your eye doctor will first conduct an assessment of your past medical history as a way of verifying whether you have previously undergone an eye operation or any procedure that might be a factor affecting your status. Uncovering any ongoing problems will also be a part of this since there are certain chronic conditions that will be contraindicated for LASIK operations and might not be a good choice for you. An example of this would be a woman’s pregnancy. A woman who is expecting a baby will have to wait after she has given birth before she will be permitted to subject herself to the procedure.
The patient’s expectations will also be discussed to make sure that it is rational. Having reasonable expectations is important to avoid frustrations and disappointments about the outcome of the operation. Your LASIK surgeon will also talk about the subsequent alterations in the patient lifestyle that should be adhered after the treatment.
Screening Procedure
Dilation of your eyes will be executed so the physician will be able to see whether your eyes exhibit any irregularities within. Measurement of the cornea’s thickness and a well defined map of your cornea will be generated. The map of your eye will be necessary in choosing the best form of LASIK procedure indicated for you. Depending on your case, a newer technique might be better for you such as the type where a three dimensional waveform is generated for each eye.
An accurate analysis of your refractive error which causes your defective vision will be performed. This will help your doctor in setting a goal for the best and most possible vision you can attain after undergoing the LASIK operation.
Finally, the ability of your eyes in the production of tears will also be looked at closely. Tear production issues may signify that the LASIK refractive correction technique is not the best option for you. If your eyes are excellent in producing tears, this would mean that there is a greater possibility for the treatment to succeed. Your eyes’ ability in tear production is in fact essential in maintaining their health.
Although most people pass through the LASIK eye screening with, you must be prepared for possible alternatives that might be suggested by your physician. There are instances when a physician will recommend another solution. Keep an open mind during a serious discussion of the probable options given to you.
If all goes well and the findings will point out that you are indeed a candidate for LASIK surgery, the day of your operation will be scheduled. Your physician will discuss to you the treatment plan and the ways for you to prepare for the operation. This will vary from patient to patient so be sure to listen closely to what your eye doctor is saying for you to be able to follow the instructions well.