Thursday, January 1, 2009

LASIK Eye Surgery - Important Points

By Kenny Jacobs

What is LASIK? LASIK is an acronym for Laser In Situ Keratomileusis. The procedure uses a specialized laser to treat refractive errors in the human eye, to improve vision and to eliminate or reduces the need for wearing spectacles or contact lenses for good vision.

Who needs LASIK surgery? People who need to wear prescription glasses or contacts often find that their lifestyle is affected by having to wear these vision aids. However, they need them to correct a refractive error in the eye - this is when the lens and cornea, which are responsible for correct focusing, are mismatched, causing blurry vision at some distances.

What are the different types of LASIK eye surgery? Conventional Lasik treatment is based on the patient's glasses prescription and has fixed parameters of treatment for each individual person. It is effective for most people but can result in glare, night vision problems and halos.

Wavefront Lasik treatment uses the Wavelight laser. This is also based on the glasses prescription of the patient, but the thickness and curvature of the cornea is also taken into account. It has been shown to reduce the side effects often found with 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? There is currently a great variation in the cost of Lasik eye surgery. It is important you know exactly what is included in the quote you are given.

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.

Don't make a decision based on cost only. Compare different clinics and doctors before finally deciding. LASIK eye surgery is irreversible so consider the facts carefully. - 16650

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