Is LASIK Right for me? What are LASIK Qualifications? Since the FDA approved LASIK for use in 1998, over 10 million people have opted for LASIK surgery. Today it is one of the most popular surgical procedures performed in the United States. LASIK surgery offers individuals greater freedom from traditional corrective eyewear. If you’re considering LASIK, it’s important to understand what it is, what to expect and what factors make someone a good or poor candidate for the procedure.
What is LASIK?
LASIK is the most advanced procedure in correcting nearsightedness and astigmatism. With LASIK, an ophthalmologist uses a laser to reshape the cornea at the front of the eye, improving the way eyes focus.
Performed as outpatient surgery, LASIK usually takes between 5 and 15 minutes. However, patients should allow for about 2 hours on the day of their treatment. Prior to the procedure, eye-drop anesthesia is used to numb the eye, so no injections are necessary. Right after treatment, some patients report minor discomfort, similar to having an eyelash or a dry contact lens in their eye. Patients see the results of LASIK treatment immediately with better vision that continues to improve as their eyes heal and adjust to their new shape.
LASIK Qualifications: Is LASIK right for you?
If you have nearsightedness, farsightedness or astigmatism, you may be a good candidate for laser vision correction. Good LASIK Qualifications include:
- Be at least 18 years old
- Be in good general health
- Have no health issues affecting the eyes
- Have no active eye conditions that may affect healing
- Have a stable vision prescription for at least one year
If you are pregnant or nursing, you shouldn’t consider LASIK at this time, because your refractive error may fluctuate. Also, LASIK does not treat presbyopia, the age-related vision problem that occurs in most individuals starting in their early 40s and can make reading more difficult.
SoCal Eye: LASIK Specialists In Long Beach
All treatment begins with a Consultation with a SoCal Eye LASIK Specialist or LASIK Surgeon in Long Beach. For LASIK Treatment in Long Beach, Schedule an Appointment today at LAKEWOOD (562) 531-2020 | LOS ALAMITOS (562) 598-7728 or send us an Online Consultation Request
