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| 1) Should I consider myopia surgery? |
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Recent medical advances have now made it possible to permanently correct myopia (nearsightedness) through laser surgery. What this means is that those who for years have depended on spectacles or contact lenses and find them inconvenient, dislike their appearance or who suffer from spectacles and contact lens wear intolerance, can now consider refractive surgery to reduce or eliminate their dependence on them.
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| 2) What is the success rate? |
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The goal of Lasik is to reduce or eliminate dependence on spectacles and contact lenses permanently by the surgical reduction or elimination of myopic power. Note that in some cases, the doctor may deliberately aim for slight undercorrection. Lasik when successful, will allow you to carry out most of your daily activities without the need to wear spectacles or contact lenses. If spectacles are needed, they are usually worn at night and will be of considerably reduced power and thickness.
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Current results show that the vast majority (95% or more) of patients will see 6/12 or better without optical aids after treatment. This usually translates into -1.00 dioptres (100 degrees) or less of myopic power. Within this range, you will be able to enjoy participating in sports and be able to drive without the aid of glasses or contact lenses. Indeed, 6/12 is often taken as the minimum vision requirement for driving. The American Academy of Ophthalmolgy reports that seven out of ten patients (70%) will achieve normal 6/6 or better vision. |
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| 3) Am I a suitable candidate? |
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You should be 18 years or older with no significant change in your spectacles or contact lens prescription for at least the last two years. There should be no medical history of any active eye diseases such as cataract, glaucoma, retinal detachment or keratoconus.
Your eye doctor (ophthalmologist) will be able to tell you if you are a suitable candidate after a comprehensive eye examination. He will also counsel you on the procedure and you should in turn take this opportunity to address any concerns that you may have about the procedure. |
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