Surgical Treatments
Considerations
Is LASIK Safe?
One of the most important and reasonable concerns a patient might have is about the safety of LASIK. The short answer is, in the experienced hands of a qualified surgeon, LASIK can be as safe as it is effective. But with any surgery, there are risks. (for more information visit the FDA's "What are the risks .." website page). Your assessment of LASIK surgery should consider these risks, and they should be part a discussion with your ophthalmologist.
Of course, clinical studies also attest to the safety and efficacy of LASIK. Perhaps the most impressive testimonial comes from the many ophthalmologists who have chosen to have LASIK performed on themselves. These men and women who perform the procedure are aware of the potential risks and are saying "yes" for themselves.
Are There Limits To Correction?
The maximum limit of correction obtainable with LASIK varies from one laser to another, but it's typically about -12 diopters of myopia. Depending on the model of laser used, the limit for treating hyperopia is +4.00 to +6.00 diopters, and for astigmatism, -3.00 to -5.00 diopters.
What Are The Options For Retreatment?
If retreatment is necessary due to undercorrection or overcorrection, patients have two options. One is for the surgeon to free the edge of the original corneal flap, lift it open, and then re-treat with the laser. The other option is to cut an entirely new flap and re-treat the cornea with the laser.
Preference varies among surgeons and partly depends on the amount of time that has elapsed since surgery. The more time that's passed after the first surgery, the more likely it is that a new flap will need to be cut.
LASIK Regulatory Approval
Just like any prescription pharmaceutical, specific uses for surgical devices, like medical lasers, are subject to review and sanction by national medical regulatory agencies. In the United States, for example, that agency is the Food and Drug Administration (FDA).
Such is the case with LASIK. The type of laser that's used in this procedure -- the excimer laser has long been approved and used around the world for several types of eye surgeries.
In the United States, several excimer lasers are now approved for LASIK.
What About The Cost?
Laser vision correction is costly to undergo as a patient, and to provide as a surgeon. But buyer beware. LASIK is heavily dependent on the skill and experience of the surgeon. Don't hunt for a bargain when a lifetime of corrected vision is at stake. Financing plans are often available to make laser vision correction affordable for everyone -- sometimes for as little as $100 a month. Ask your doctor about financing options that might be available to you.
