LASIK surgery is extremely popular, but (unfortunately) it isn’t for everyone. Before you can undergo LASIK surgery, you will have to meet certain criteria. This isn’t because we like to exclude people! If we could help everyone achieve 20/20 vision, we would. However, LASIK surgery is simply not safe for everyone.
During your LASIK consultation, you will be asked a series of questions. It is important to answer these questions honestly, as we are only looking out for your best interest. Curious about why we ask these question in the first place? Here’s why!
Q: Why do you need to know if I am pregnant or nursing?
A: As we are sure you’re aware, pregnancy and nursing both cause huge changes in hormone production. These changes in hormone production can make LASIK outcomes less predictable, and can also affect healing after surgery.
In addition, several prescription and non-prescription medications used by LASIK patients can pose risks to a developing baby. For instance, on the day of your surgery, you will be given a mild sedative (such as Valium) to help you relax. For up to a week after surgery, Dr. Loden will instruct you to use antibiotic and steroid eye drops, which are essential during the healing process.
If you are pregnant or nursing, it is important that you inform our staff and doctors for the safety of you and your baby.
Q: Why are you asking my age?
A: LASIK patients are typically in their 20s and 30s. We do not operate on patients younger than 18. This is because people under 18 (and even people over 18) have not finished developing yet. Your eyes can change a lot at this age, and it is best to wait until your vision has stabilized. This will ensure the best possible surgical outcome, and reduce your likeliness of needing touch-up surgery after LASIK.
Regardless of your age, if you have had changes in your glasses or contact lens prescription in the last year, you will likely not qualify for LASIK.
Q: Why do you need to know if I have had an eye injury or surgery?
A: This information will not always exclude you from having LASIK surgery. Knowing about previous surgeries or injuries helps our doctors get an idea of the health of your cornea. A thin, weak or unstable cornea due to disease or injury is not ideal for LASIK surgery. Some surgeries and injuries cause corneal scarring, which can have a big effect on LASIK outcomes.
Have more questions about LASIK candidacy? The only way to know for sure if you’re a candidate is to schedule your LASIK consultation at Loden Vision Centers! Contact our Nashville location today to start your journey to clear vision.
