If you need vision correction, your eye doctor will discuss the treatment options available. If you decide to get LASIK, you should learn the benefits and factors surrounding the surgical procedure. Knowing the effectiveness, quality of life, and other issues will help you make the best treatment decision. It is essential to realize that eye surgery is not for everyone. 
 

Scheduling LASIK Consultation 

Before getting eye surgery, you should have a consultation visit with the surgeon. Every individual has unique eye health and lifestyle circumstances that must be considered before surgery. The surgeon will assess your eye condition to decide if you are a good candidate for the procedure. 
 

The surgeon will obtain the patient’s medical history, conduct a comprehensive eye exam, and perform corneal mapping. The consultation will also include discussing the procedure, answering questions, and addressing concerns. 
 

Preparing for LASIK Consultation 

To prepare for the consultation, you should gather your medical history documents. These include previous eye prescriptions, any information from your doctor, and medical history from your physician. Your refractive error will need to be within the approved range for LASIK. 
 

Providing accurate information will help the surgeon make the best surgical decisions. Avoid wearing contact lenses for 24 hours before the consultation. Certain health conditions may disqualify you from LASIK. There are medications you may need to stop taking before surgery. 
 

Comprehensive Eye Exam

A comprehensive eye exam will be conducted before eye surgery. To be a candidate for the surgery, you must have a prescription that has not changed in the last year or two. During the exam, the eye doctor will perform several tests, including:
 

• Vision testing.

• A dominant eye testing.

• Eye dilation.

• Tear film analysis.

• Eyelid inspection. 

• Corneal mapping.
   

Taking digital images can help examine the eye surface. Corneal topography is a vital test that allows surgeons to program the laser accurately during the procedure. 
 

What to Ask About LASIK 

After completing the exam, you have the opportunity to ask the surgeon about the procedure. The surgeon will walk you through the process and let you know how to prepare for surgery. Find out when to stop taking medications or wearing contacts.
 

The surgeon will discuss what you need to bring on the day of surgery. Find out what to expect during aftercare in the days and weeks after surgery. You must also ask about cost and payment options. 
 

Addressing Your Concerns 

After the surgeon explains everything about the procedure, you can bring out any concerns. Seek clarification where necessary. Understanding the risks and benefits will give you a realistic idea of what to expect. You need to know whether you have a reasonable chance of satisfaction and success after LASIK.
 

LASIK is a simple and minimally-invasive procedure. But as with all surgical procedures, there is always a chance of the unexpected. The results of the procedure vary in individuals. While many people experience great results, others do not. There is an optimal life stage and age to get LASIK. 
 

For more on preparing for your LASIK consultation, visit Montebello Optometry Eye Clinic & Dry Eye Center at our Montebello, California office. Call (323) 888-9111 to schedule an appointment today.