How do I know if I am a good candidate for LASIK Eye Surgery?
Most eyeglass and contact lens wearers who are in good health will find that they are probably good candidates for LASIK with certain considerations. Generally, if you are over 18 years of age and have healthy eyes that are free from retinal problems, corneal scars and any other eye disease it is likely that you are suitable. Some patients with thinner than average corneas, dry eyes or who are taking certain medications may not be good candidates. Along with being medically suitable, the best candidates are people with a lifestyle or occupation in which they are dissatisfied with having to wear contact lenses or glasses to see clearly all the time. The only way to definitively find out if you are a good LASIK candidate is to have a examination and consultation with a LASIK Surgeon so that the doctor will be able to determine if meet all of the criteria for getting good results.
How Long Does LASIK Surgery Procedure Take?
Typically, LASIK Surgery procedures are as an office procedure in the comfort and convenience of an excimer laser eye surgery suite. After the preparation where eye drops are instilled into your eyes so that you are comfortable, the entire treatment takes about 5 to 7 minutes per eye or approximately 15-20 minutes for both eyes.
Is the Effect of LASIK Eye Surgery Permanent?
Yes. Following an initial healing period of two to three months, the effect of the treatment is life-long. That said, you must still continue seeing an eye doctor regularly for routine eye exams in order to maintain your eye health and vision thought early detection of any eye problems, conditions or diseases that you may develop as part of the normal aging process or are associated with any other systemic health problems you encounter.
Will I Need Reading Glasses After the Treatment?
Generally, patients under 40 years of age read well without glasses following the treatment. Patients over 40 may need magnification for reading fine print. Presbyopia is the term that refers to the natural weakening of the focusing muscles that occurs in our early to mid 40s, causing us to need the magnification that reading glasses provide. The LASIK treatment does not correct or prevent Presbyopia. We also will be glad to discuss another option called monovision LASIK.
How Many Times Do I Need To Be Seen Following the Treatment?
Most patients are usually seen the day following the treatment and then at least 1-month and 3 months following the treatment. Some patients require more visits. Remember, we are available 24 hours a day when you have any questions, concerns or need attention.
How Soon After The Treatment Can I Bathe or Take a Shower?
Dr.Chua will advise you as to the specific, however typically you can bathe the same day as the treatment but you should not shower for 2 days after the treatment. As always, avoid getting soap or water directly into your eyes. Avoid rubbing your eyes during the first month after surgery.
When Can I Drive After The Treatment?
You should not drive the day of treatment. After that, you may drive when you feel confident that your visual acuity and eye comfort allow you to drive safely.
How Soon Can I Use Eye Makeup?
You may resume wearing eye makeup starting 1-2 weeks after your treatment. We strongly recommend that you purchase new eye makeup, specifically mascara, to avoid potential infection following your treatment.
How Soon After The Treatment Can I Exercise?
Non-contact sports can be resumed as soon as you feel capable. Eye protection is always recommended for racquet sports or rough sports where there is a risk of being hit in the eye.
How Soon Can I Swim?
You should stay out of swimming pools for one week after your treatment, and rivers, lakes and oceans for two weeks following your treatment.