You are less likely to go a day without coming across eye remedy commercials. In the US, 12 million people above 40 years old are visually impaired. This has seen an increase in demand for corrective eye treatments like contact lenses, glasses, and surgery.

LASIK is the most preferred choice as it spares eye patients the trouble of wearing contact lenses and glasses. Note that while it eliminates the need for glasses, LASIK is not a remedy for all eye problems. For instance, it cannot replace the cornea. If you are looking to have a laser refractive surgery, here is what you need to know.

1. Work with a professional

It is essential that you look for a LASIK Chicago expert if the procedure is to be effective. Note that not every patient qualifies for LASIK, and you, therefore, need a professional that will give you proper guidance. Apart from experience with the surgery, you will need someone experienced to take care of you after the surgery.

The more experienced the surgeon is, the lower the likelihood of complications. The success of the surgery is to a significant percentage dependent on the skills of the surgeon.

2. Know whether you can benefit from LASIK

Before the surgery, share all relevant information with your surgeon. You will be asked a couple of questions to determine if you are fit for the procedure. If you are pregnant or nursing, have a history of eye infections, advanced glaucoma, and if you have a thin cornea, then you may not qualify for the procedure. 

There is more that can determine your suitability; you need to check with your surgeon.

3. There is no guarantee

While many patients have success stories after their eyesight improved after the surgery, there is no guarantee that it will entirely correct your eyesight. In some cases, patients still wear glasses after LASIK. In others, the patients wear glasses but feel some improvement.

Patients enjoy improved vision even though not perfect. A surgeon that guarantees you that everything will be perfect after the procedure cannot be trusted.

4. There are side effects

A fair share of the patients experience full recovery but with some temporary side effects. After the surgery, you will likely experience blurry vision, pain or discomfort, sensitivity to light, and dryness. 

The good news is that LASIK is being improved continually and the latest technologies have improved recovery. 

5. You need to prepare for the surgery

Like most surgeries, you need to prepare for LASIK. For one, you should avoid makeup and other cosmetics, including perfume, two days before the surgery and on the day of the surgery. If you wear contact lenses, you have to switch to glasses two weeks before the procedure. 

Take away

Feel free to talk about LASIK with your doctor. Learn about the successes of the procedure, the risks, and how it can improve your vision. This way, you can establish the potential outcome of the surgery for your vision.