When to Get Laser Eye Surgery

Laser eye surgery is a commonly carried out procedure that can be, quite literally, life-changing. The yearning for a life without lenses is what drives the decision to undergo this elective procedure. So, at what point in your life should you consider getting it done? The following discusses what makes you a suitable candidate and what you need to think about before you take the plunge.

Is Laser Vision Correction Right For You?

•     A brief overview
•     What makes a suitable candidate for laser vision correction?
•     Understanding the risks

A brief overview

Laser vision correction, commonly referred to as LASIK (laser-assisted in-situ keratomileusis), is where a medical-grade laser is used to reshape the eye. This brings about improved vision without the need for corrective lenses. LASIK gained FDA approval in 1999, and since then the treatment has undergone incredible advances as new technology becomes available.The procedure can be used to treat short-sightedness, long-sightedness (in certain cases), and astigmatism.However, while LASIK is the most commonly performed procedure, other types also exist. These include PRK (photorefractive keratectomy) and LASEK (laser-assisted subepithelial keratectomy). All types of laser vision correction are carried out by an ophthalmologist experienced in the procedure. While 20/20 vision is not always guaranteed, the majority of laser vision surgeries improve vision dramatically, often to the point where lenses are no longer needed.

What makes a suitable candidate for laser vision correction?

Many people are suitable for one or other of the procedures. The most important requirement is that you’re in good health and that your vision is stable. In other words, your prescription has settled down and you no longer require regular changes to your glasses or contacts. In general, this means LASIK isn’t usually carried out on those under 18, as their eyes are still in a state of flux.There are some reasons why LASIK might not be suitable or poses a higher risk of post-surgery issues. Your surgeon will discuss your situation should any of the following be relevant:

• You have a particularly strong prescription
• You suffer from any type of eye disease (glaucoma, cataracts, etc.)
• You have an eye infection
• You suffer from dry eyes
• You have large pupils
• You have age-related eye changes
• You have any underlying health conditions, such as those that affect the immune system, diabetes, or other chronic conditions

Understanding the risks

Your surgeon will discuss the risks before you make a final decision about the treatment. These include the risk of over or under corrections, dry eyes, and a post-period where your vision might be less than perfect while your eyes heal and adjust to the surgery.

Laser Eye Surgery Boca Raton, South Florida, and Further Afield

•     Selecting a surgeon

Selecting a surgeon

When choosing the person who’ll carry out the procedure, the most important thing is to feel confident in their abilities. Meet with your surgeon, ask them questions—plenty of them—and do a little digging as to their experience and results.No good surgeon will mind you asking about how many procedures they’ve carried out and their success rate. On the contrary, the best practitioners will freely give this information and be keen to do so.

Contact the WBEC for the Ultimate Laser Eye Surgery Boca Raton

The WBEC, or West Boca Eye Center, is a clinical center of excellence that offers the latest, cutting-edge options for laser vision correction. Run by academic ophthalmologist, Brent Bellotte MD., patients at the clinic benefit from treatment by a world-leader in the most advanced laser eye surgery available. When it comes to your eyesight, only the best will do. That’s exactly what every patient at the WBEC is given—the ultimate treatment options, care, and customer service that leads to the best possible outcome.Visit https://westbocaeyecenter.com to find out more and take the first step to the best vision of your life.