Tuesday, February 3, 2009

LASIK Eye Surgery - Important Points

By David Johnson

LASIK surgery has been performed for a number of years on thousands of happy patients. LASIK actually stands for Laser In SituKeratomileusis and is a procedure designed to improve the vision of long and short sighted people, so that they no longer have to rely on wearing contact lenses or spectacles to see clearly.

When is LASIK eye surgery needed? Refractive error refers to a mismatch between the lens and cornea of the eye, which form the focusing system, and causes blurred vision at some distances. Spectacles or contact lenses compensate for the refractive error, to allow the person to see normally. LASIK surgery is used to correct the person's refractive error so that they do not have to rely on their glasses or contacts.

Different types of LASIK. There are two basic types of LASIK eye surgery. They are: - Conventional LASIK treatment. This type uses the patient's glasses prescription as a base which gives fixed parameters for each individual. It is successful in most cases but can result in side effects like glare and night vision problems.

Wavefront LASIK treatment - this type uses the Wavelight brand of laser. It also uses the patient's glasses prescription, but the thickness and curvature of the cornea is taken into account as well. It has less side effects than conventional Lasik surgery.

Side effects of LASIK surgery. As with most surgical procedures, there are risks and potential side effects. These may include: * Over or under correction of the vision. * The need to continue wearing glasses after the surgery. * Results may not last. * Possible problems like sensitivity to glare or light, double vision, apparent halos around things, shadows and hazy vision. * LASIK Dry eye condition. * Your vision may even be worse than before the surgery. It is best to discuss these possibilities with your surgeon.

How much will LASIK surgery cost? Prices vary greatly between Lasik providers. Make sure the quote you are given covers the entire service and there will be no added extras.

Generally speaking, Lasik eye surgery should cost you between $1,600 and $2,350 per eye, but this depends on the type of surgery or equipment used. You will find plenty of budget prices - make sure you read the fine print and know what is included.

How do I find the right doctor? Talk to people you know who have had this type of surgery to get their opinion and ask for recommendations. Look for an eye clinic or surgeon who has had considerable experience and make an appointment to fully discuss the procedure and your concerns. Be an educated patient and research LASIK eye surgery thoroughly before making a decision.

Do not make your decision on cost alone. Compare different centers and doctors before making a decision. LASIK eye surgery is permanent and you need consider your options carefully. - 15438

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