Choosing a LASIK Surgeon

The key to choosing the right doctor for your LASIK operation is to ask the proper questions. If you don't feel comfortable with the answers, then look around and get a second opinion. If you have another eye Doctor, ask them for a referral.

The Council for Refractive Surgery Quality Assurance lists many questions on its website. Here are some of them:

• How many years have you been performing refractive surgery procedures? (Not fewer than three years.)
• How many total operations have you performed? (Not less than 500.)
• How many refractive procedures of the exact type you intend to use for me, with the same equipment, and the same refractive error, have you performed? (Not less than 100.)
• What percent of your refractive surgery patients receive Snellen uncorrected visual acuity (UCVA) of 20/40 or better? (The CRSQA says you should be suspicious of any number that is greater than 90 percent, which is the norm.)
• What percentage achieved 20/20 or better? (Around 65 percent is the norm; ask for proof if a higher number is stated.)
• Will you provide me the names and contact information of at least ten previous patients who have had the exact same surgery with similar refractive error?
• Have you ever had malpractice insurance coverage denied?
• Have you had your license to perform refractive surgery revoked, suspended or restricted?

Here are some additional questions:

• What kind of laser do you use?
• How often is your laser calibrated?(The Laser should be recalibrated at least every 4th use) What kind of microkeratome do you use?
• How often is the microkeratome incisor changed?(A new incisor should be used for every patient)
• What financing options do you offer? Are pre and post op visits included in the cost?
• How many post op visits are included in the cost?
• Are additional post op visits for emergencies free?

The History Of LASIK Surgery

LASIK Surgery can trace its roots back to the 1950’s when the Columbian ophthalmologist Jose Barraquer performed an operation involving cutting thin flaps in the cornea. Combined with the discovery of the Excimer Laser in 1968, the foundation for Lasik was in place.

The technique was refined over the years until Lucio Buratto and Loannis Pallikaris put everything together to create a more precise technique with fewer complications. The operation became popularly known as LASIK. (laser-assisted in situ keratomileusis)

What does the future hold? Wavefront technology can create eyes with "super vision" after LASIK or even repair botched operations using older techniques. Wavefront is a technology used on sensitive telescopes to make minute measurements. Some people who have undergone this LASIK procedure have reported vision of 20/15 or better.

Possible LASIK Surgery Complications

Perhaps the most important factor to consider before getting LASIK eye surgery are the possible complications. More people than ever are undergoing the operation thanks to the lowered cost and availability of clinics. For that reason the public needs to be made aware of any post operative side affects from Lasic surgery.

The thought of never having to wear glasses is one we all can appreciate. However, don't rush to the clinic. The negative side effects can last a lifetime. Obviously, the number one danger is that something goes wrong and you lose your eyesight in one or both eyes. This is very rare. More common is a partial loss of vision on one or both eyes.

Other people complain about seeing halos or coronas around objects, particulary while driving at night. Distinguishing between objects of the same color when everything looks gray has also been reported..

Be sure to talk to your eye care professional to understand all the risks you will be facing after Lasik surgery. Never rush into surgery, and be sure you clinic has a good track record. Research all complaints and be sure you have a doctor you trust your eyes in.

Some Things To Know Before Having Lasik

If you have low to moderate vision loss, LASIK eye surgery may be able to help you. Although it's a quick and painless outpatient procedure, LASIK is not without it's risks and complications. For that reason you need to familiarize yourself with the procedure so that you can make an informed choice.

Before agreeing to have the LASIK surgery, talk to the doctor about the expected outcome of the surgery. Not everyone has perfect vision after the procedure. Discuss potential side effects like dry eyes, loss of night vision, or blurred vision. Remember, not eveyone is a good candidate for the surgery. So be sure to tell the Doctor of any medical illness, medications being taken, and any family history of medical problems like Diabetes.

Only you can decide if LASIK surgery is worth the risk. Becoming familiar with the risks and rewards will help you make an infomed choice. If you live in Northern New jersey and need Lasik Eye Surgery, then you have many options.