Am I a Candidate for LASIK in New York City? by Lynn Fugaro

Before deciding to undergo LASIK surgery, you will need to be examined by an experienced ophthalmologist to ensure that you meet all the requirements for the procedure. In a LASIK procedure, an excimer laser is used to reshape your cornea in order to correct refractive errors such as:

• Nearsightedness

• Farsightedness

• Astigmatism

Your corneas must meet certain specifications in order for you to be considered a candidate for LASIK. If your corneas are too thin, flat, steep, or irregularly shaped, it may adversely impact the outcome of your procedure.

Criteria for LASIK Candidacy

Ideal candidates for LASIK should meet the following criteria:

• At least 18 years old

• Your prescription should be in the accepted range set forth by the FDA

• You must understand and accept all potential risks, complications, and side effects associated with LASIK

• Your prescription must be stable for at least one year

• You should not have any other problems with your cornea or retina, and eye pressure should be normal

• Your cornea must be sufficiently thick to withstand laser reshaping

• You should not have any other serious eye diseases

• There should be no evidence of collagen vascular or autoimmune disease

• You should not be pregnant or nursing

• You should not have recently suffered from herpes of the eye

• You must have realistic expectations for the outcome of your procedure

• You must be willing to discontinue wearing contact lenses for at least three days prior to your initial examination

Alternative Options to LASIK

There are a variety of refractive procedures available to treat your nearsightedness, farsightedness, or astigmatism if you are not a suitable candidate for LASIK. Your LASIK surgeon may recommend one of the following procedures instead:

• PRK

• Clear lens extraction

• Phakic implant surgery

• Implantable contact lenses

At your initial consultation, your LASIK surgeon will review all of these options with you and recommend the appropriate procedure based on your refractive error and the condition of your eyes.

If you are interested in LASIK in the New York City, Long Island, and Manhattan, New York area, please visit the website of Kelly Laser Center today.