Is laser eye surgery right for you?

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If scratchy contact lenses and expensive designer glasses are making you and your pocketbook see red, then maybe it's time you find out if you qualify for laser eye surgery.

LASIK surgery basically uses a laser to permanently alter the shape of one's cornea in order to correct a variety of visual impairments. Although this relatively painless procedure has been proven to be safe and effective in eliminating a patient's dependence on expensive eyewear, the surgery is still in its infancy and is therefore not without risk. There are, however, certain patients and conditions that stand to benefit the most.

The ideal LASIK candidate is at least 18 years old and will have been wearing a stable prescription (either glasses or contact lenses) for at least two years. Most patients who qualify for laser eye surgery suffer from on of the more common types of vision impairments: be it nearsightedness (myopia), farsightedness (hyperopia), astigmatism or some combination of the three.

Although laser surgery can help rectify all of these conditions, the lasers still work best on certain eyesight ranges. Interested parties who have extremely poor vision, who have a history of dry eyes or who are also being treated with medications that prevent healing (such as steroids or immunosuppressants) are typically not encouraged to take the laser option, given that their recoveries may be jeopardized. Candidates who are pregnant or nursing or who find their eye prescriptions still changing with every eye exam are also discouraged from going through the procedure, although they can do so at a later time.

It's important to keep in mind that LASIK surgery is still in its infancy. And while the thought of chucking those glasses and contact lenses in the trash might be an inviting prospect, one shouldn't take any unnecessary risks when it comes to their eyes. After all, unlike glasses or contact lenses, you only get one pair.

Lasik Eye Surgery have a database of providers, who should be able to provide you more information. Always make your own checks when selecting a surgeon.

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Nothing on this site should be considered advice. You should contact a qualified advisor for health, beauty or medical advice.

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site updated: 4.2.2012

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Is laser eye surgery right for you?