Laser-assisted in situ keratomileusis, more commonly referred to as Lasik surgery, is a form of refractive laser eye surgery executed by ophthalmologists--specialists who specifically operate on the visual pathways. Lasik is meant to cure three common visual ailments: myopia, astigmatism, and hyperopia. Since it is meant to restore the eyes' natural functions, it negates the need for wearing either glasses or contact lenses.
For those who have been burdened with any of these visual disorders, Lasik can immediately sound like a Godsend, especially because the corrective surgery is known for minimal pain and recovery time for the patient. Before undertaking the surgery, however, there are a few things to consider about the preoperative period, the cost, and so on.
Any patients who wear soft contact lenses must cease wearing them anytime from five days to three weeks before their scheduled surgery. Wearers of hard contact lenses will have to stop wearing them for much longer--sometimes for three months or more, depending on the surgeon's opinion.
Depending on the type of procedure used, the cost may vary anywhere from 1,000 to 3,000 dollars per eye. If you see an advertisement that seems to offer a flat rate, such as, "Lasik from $ 500 per eye," beware. This price is based on absolutely perfect conditions: minimal correction needed through surgery and no follow-up care. In general, the price is dependent upon the severity of the patient's case and his or her own customization.
The less expensive option includes using the bladed microkeratomes; newer technology has allowed for a procedure guided by "wavefront analysis." The purpose behind this technology is to produce a more optically perfect eye, and patients tend to express more satisfaction with the results than they have with earlier techniques. However, this version of Lasik does tend to be significantly more expensive.
Most ophthalmologists offer a wide variety of options to help patients select the precise Lasik operation to fit their budget and their situation. But all potential Lasik patients must be mindful that if they have a complex condition to be corrected, the price can sometimes be beyond their control. For optimal results--or any results at all--the surgeon may need to use a more personalized method. And the more customized the procedure, the more the price becomes inflated.
Few vision insurance plans cover the cost of Lasik, so check with your employer to see if they have made any special arrangements with a local Lasik professional for a lower negotiated cost. You may also be able to qualify for a tax deduction, so be sure to investigate all of your financial options before diving in.
If you are searching for Salt Lake City Lasik surgery centers, be sure to check out Epic - Davis Vision MD (http://www.davisvisionmd.com), the leaders in cutting-edge technology and patient personalization. Art Gib is a freelance writer.
Orignal From: Things to Bear in Mind Before Getting Lasik Surgery
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