Lasik vision correction - Dr William Boothe article

What is LASIK?

LASIK: Abbreviation corresponding to laser-assisted in situ keratomileusis, a form of laser eye surgical procedure designed to modify the form of the cornea to annihilate or reduce the necessitate of glasses and contacts in cases of severe nearsightedness (myopia).
Dr. William Boothe about General LASIK Requirements
-LASIK candidate is over the age of 18 with a stable prescription
-Your prescription for distance vision needs to match a certain minimal strength and that perscription strength (glasses or contacts) must meet FDA-approved guidelines for nearsightedness, farsightedness, and astigmatism.
-Candidates must understand the risks of LASIK surgery and have realistic expectations regarding the results that can be achieved.
-If wearing contact lens, discontinue use at least 7 days prior to the examination, depending on the type of contact lenses.
-Be in Good General Health
-Have a refractive error within the FDA-approved correctable range for LASIK
-A candidate cannot have severe refractive errors.
-Stable vision.
The Non-LASIK Candidates
-LASIK candidates should not be pregnant or nursing at the time of surgery because hormones may cause fluctuation in refractive error.
-Keratoconous (thinning and steepening of the cornea)
-Have diseases such as cataracts, advanced glaucoma, corneal diseases, corneal thinning disorders (keratoconus or pellucid marginal degeneration), or certain other pre-existing eye diseases that affect or threaten vision.
-Have a history of dry eyes, as they may find that the con-dition worsens following surgery.
-Have unstable or uncontrolled diabetes
-If you have an autoimmune disease or some other type of major illness or chronic condition, you may not qualify. This will depend on what condition you have.
-Have refractive errors too severe for treatment with current technology.


Dr. William Boothe: More about Lasik
* You should not expect perfect vision following lasik. Many lasik advertisements are misleading to people considering laser vision correction, often promising an end to wearing glasses or contact lenses.
* Having lasik just before or after pregnancy is not recommended. Hormone fluctuations and perhaps fluid retention can cause changes to a woman's vision corrective prescription during pregnancy. She may become more nearsighted or develop a bit os astigmatism during pregnancy.
* You might have seen LASIK guarantees of 20/20 vision. It’s true that many people do achieve 20/20 vision or better after LASIK, but it’s not universally true.
* LASIK surgery is not reversible and like every surgical procedure has risks and possible side-effects.