LASIK eye surgery has become one of the most popular treatments for refractive errors such as nearsightedness, farsightedness, and astigmatism. The treatment involves removing small pieces of tissue from the cornea.
Before committing to a LASIK procedure, patients should ask their doctor any relevant questions that they may have in order to know what to expect.
Who will be carrying out the procedure?
LASIK eye surgery centers typically employ a number of surgeons with varying degrees of skill and experience. Before committing to any treatments, it is a good idea for patients to inquire about the doctor performing them. Factors such as training, experience, and success rates all play a role in a positive outcome.
What can I expect from the surgery?
As with any surgical procedure, patients should know what the treatment involves before agreeing to go forward with it. A credentialed surgeon will be able to explain every aspect of the procedure, including how long it will take, in detail. They will also be able to answer any questions about risks and side effects.
How many of your patients have required subsequent treatments?
This is an indirect way of finding out the surgeon’s success rate for LASIK surgeries. Finding out how many of their former patients have had to go back to wearing glasses or contact lenses or receive a follow-up treatment will give the patient a good idea about the quality of results they will receive.
How much will the procedure cost?
This is a vital question, as surgery costs will vary from region to region and doctor to doctor. A reputable practitioner should be able to come up with a solid number during the private consultation. Patients should ask for a detailed list of all the separate costs to guarantee complete transparency.
How long does the recovery process take?
Generally speaking, most patients only require a few days of rest after undergoing eye surgery. That said, it can take up to a few months for patients to enjoy the full benefits of the procedure.
What is the takeaway?
While eye surgery is a big endeavor, asking the right questions will help patients feel more comfortable going forward. A good way to tell if a doctor is a good fit is to check the rapport that you have with them. A trustworthy doctor is one who allows their patients to speak their minds and raise any issues or concerns they may have throughout the process.