As with any medical procedure, you should avoid laser eye treatment until you have a thorough understanding of all aspects of the procedure and can determine whether it is appropriate for you. Here are ten questions to ask before having eye laser surgery…
- Is there an age limit for laser eye treatment?
Anyone over the age of 18 can receive eye laser treatment. However, many leading eye specialists agree that most eye problems will not be fully developed until the age of 21. As a result, some laser eye surgery providers will not perform the procedure on anyone under the age of 21, unless the individual’s condition has been stable for at least a year. There are exceptions, and if someone needs good vision for a career, such as joining the police force, ambulance service, or cabin crew, surgery may be performed between the ages of 18 and 21.
- Will treatment be considered if you have diabetes or glaucoma?
If a diabetic has no other eye conditions and their diabetes is well controlled, he or she will most likely be considered for treatment. You will not be able to receive treatment if you have glaucoma with optic nerve damage as evidenced by changes in the visual field test.
- Can laser eye surgery eliminate the need for reading glasses?
Yes. There are two methods for getting rid of reading glasses. The first is Monovision, also known as “Blended Vision,” in which one eye is made short-sighted to allow for near focus while the dominant eye is corrected for distance vision. This requires adaptation and is a very satisfactory solution for many. Supracor Lasik is another option. This treatment corrects for near, intermediate, and far distances.
- How many people are unsuitable for eye laser surgery?
On average, approximately 35% of all those who attend a laser eye surgery consultation are turned away due to pre-existing eye conditions or other health issues. For those who are unable to undergo laser eye surgery, other options such as implantable contact lenses or refractive lens exchange may be more appropriate.
- How long is the consultation going to last?
You will be invited to a laser eye consultation prior to the procedure, which will last between 1-3 hours. The consultation will include a thorough eye examination, evaluation of the test results, and advice on the procedure. You will be able to ask the surgeon any questions you may have at this point. Depending on the surgeon’s findings, additional tests may be required.
- How does laser eye surgery affect your driving ability?
The majority of patients tested the next day after laser eye surgery meet or exceed the visual standards required for driving. Much is dependent on your personal rate of healing and progress.
- Will you need to take time off from work?
You will be able to return to work following the consultation, but you will be unable to drive because eye drops will be used to dilate your pupils. As a general rule, you should take 24-48 hours off work after eye laser surgery.
- Is it likely that you will be denied eye laser surgery again if you have previously been denied?
This is entirely dependent on the underlying reason for the treatment refusal. Because techniques have advanced, you may now be eligible for treatment.
- Is laser eye surgery painful?
Most people describe the sensation as unusual rather than painful. To alleviate any discomfort, extremely potent local anaesthetic eye drops are used. The most you should feel is pressure in each eye for about 20 seconds.
- How long does the treatment actually take?
The actual treatment should take no more than 20 minutes. You will then be transferred to a clinic recovery room to rest. You will be in the clinic for approximately 2-3 hours.
Determine whether cataract surgery is right for you. To schedule a consultation, please call or visit Dr. Kamdar Eye Hospital.
Dr Kamdar Eye Hospital’s doctors are experts in LASIK, cataract, cornea, retina, and glaucoma treatments.
The hospital has cutting-edge medical facilities and the most experienced ophthalmologists. Our aim is to assist you in realising your best vision.
For more information or to make an appointment with a consultant, please call or visit Dr. Kamdar Eye Hospital.