Are you thinking about getting LASIK eye surgery? Are you worried about being able to handle the procedure?
LASIK is an elective procedure that you need to qualify for. But more than that, you need to know you can handle getting a procedure like LASIK.
There’s a lot that you need to know for a successful recovery. Keep reading for 6 signs you can handle having a procedure like LASIK!
1. You’re The Right Age
Before almost anything, one of the first things taken into consideration with LASIK is your age. When it comes to LASIK, you must be at least 18 years old to undergo the procedure.
It’s only approved for adults 18 or older. Though you can get the procedure when you’re 18, most ophthalmologists recommend waiting.
Many recommend getting LASIK in your mid to late twenties. This is to ensure your eyes have stopped changing and are stable. All patients need to have a stable prescription for at least two years to qualify for LASIK.
Sure, being in your mid-twenties means you’re an adult, but it doesn’t always mean you’re responsible. During this time, you might be trying to save money, or travel for pleasure.
It could lead to prolonged contact lens wear. This can cause eye irritation or other frustrating symptoms. This is one of the main reasons why patients like to get LASIK in their mid to late twenties.
2. You’re A Responsible Contact Lens Wearer
If you wear contact lenses and remember to take them out every night, then it’s a good sign that you can handle LASIK. There are steps that you need to follow before and after LASIK to make sure the procedure is successful.
It is important to follow all the instructions your eye doctor gives you to keep your eyes healthy. Following these instructions is your best bet at having a safe recovery and the best possible results!
3. You Have Dry Eye Symptoms Under Control
Patients that have untreated dry eye syndrome shouldn’t get LASIK. The good news? It’s only a temporary delay, usually until their dry eye symptoms are under control.
If patients do not have dry eyes or have it under control, then LASIK is a procedure they should be able to manage. When you have dry eye symptoms under control, it shows that you can handle a treatment plan.
You also already know that you can reach out to your doctor if you need help.
4. You Wear Glasses and Don’t Lose or Break Them
Some patients who wear glasses constantly lose or break them. They are irresponsible when it comes to taking care of their vision.
If you can keep track of your glasses and keep them safe, you are responsible. You value having good vision and want to keep it that way.
Getting LASIK does allow you to say goodbye to your glasses but you need to be mature enough to handle the procedure. After LASIK, you’ll need to be able to put in eye drops several times a day.
This is a crucial part of the recovery process, and cannot be skipped. If you already wear glasses responsibly, chances are, you can remember to put in these drops without any issues.
5. You Have Enough PTO/Vacation Time
For working professionals, making sure that you have enough PTO or vacation time is key to a successful recovery. You don’t need to take off very many days to have LASIK but a few days off can make a big difference.
Taking these days shows you planned for the procedure and can take the time to relax. This is a must if you want the best results!
6. You Can Attend Follow-Up Appointments
Post-LASIK, you will need to go to follow-up appointments. The first one will be 24 hours after the procedure. You will then have to go to follow-up appointments regularly over the next several months.
Going to these appointments is an extremely important part of a healthy recovery from LASIK. You need to be able to handle going to these appointments even if it takes up time in your schedule.
Do you think that you are ready to have LASIK? Schedule a LASIK consultation at Loden Vision Centers in Nashville, TN to find out!
