What To Expect During a LASIK Consultation?

LASIK is the best-known laser vision correction produce in the United States. This innovative procedure uses the latest laser technology to alter the shape of the cornea – the clear, domed lens covering the front of the eye. Changing its shape also changes the way that light passes through the eye, enabling it to be targeted directly onto the retina at the back of the eye and improving patient vision. It is extremely safe, effective, and for most people, affordable.

However, before you can get LASIK laser vision correction, you’ll first need to have a consultation. This is an appointment with your chosen LASIK surgeon to determine if you are a suitable candidate for the procedure and if you have realistic expectations for its outcome. 

You should allow up to two hours for your LASIK consultation as it will involve a variety of different elements. Here’s what you need to know about what to expect during a LASIK consultation. 

Your conversation with your LASIK surgeon

Your LASIK surgeon will have a lot of questions that they will want to ask you before you they will approve you as a candidate for LASIK laser vision correction. The reason for these questions is to make sure that you understand what is involved, you have realistic expectations for the outcome of your laser eye surgery, and that you are in the right health and frame of mind for the procedure. 

Your LASIK surgeon will ask you in detail about your medical and eye health, including whether you have been diagnosed with any conditions, if you take any medications or have any surgeries planned. 

They will ask you what you hope to achieve from getting LASIK and make sure that you have realistic expectations for the outcome of your procedure. While many people will be able to see clearly without using glasses or contact lenses, this is not a guarantee and there may be occasions, such as driving at night, where you still rely on prescription eyewear. 

Finally, they will explain the recovery period and risks associated with the procedure and will ensure that you understand and accept these. 

Comprehensive eye exam

All laser vision correction consultations include a comprehensive eye exam. This is to ensure that your eyes are as healthy as possible at that moment in time (since your last comprehensive eye exam may have been months or even a year or two earlier) and that there are no issues that will prevent you from getting LASIK treatment. For example, patients who suffer from dry eyes or cataracts will not be suitable for the treatment. 

Your LASIK surgeon will also need to check your prescription, since people who are good candidates for LASIK have prescriptions that fall within specific parameters. If your prescription falls outside of these, it may not be possible to have LASIK.

Corneal topography

Your LASIK surgeon will need to perform something called corneal topography. This is where technology is used to capture the surface of the cornea and turn it into a 3d image that shows exactly how it needs to be altered in order to correct refractive conditions like myopia and astigmatism. This will be an invaluable tool for planning and performing your LASIK procedure. 

If you are considered to be a good candidate for LASIK, your surgeon will discuss the next steps with you. However, if you aren’t eligible for this procedure, there may be an alternative laser vision correction treatment that will work for you, and your surgeon may discuss these with you in more detail.

For more information, or to schedule your consultation appointment, please contact our friendly and experienced eyecare specialists at In Focus Vision Center located in Piscataway, New Jersey. Please call us at 732-313-2570 today.