Laser eye surgery, or Lasik surgery, is a corrective surgery in order for you to stop wearing glasses or contacts. People who are uncomfortable with glasses look into this mostly because it’s convenient, and you don’t have to wear anything. Read on to learn about the details of the surgery and what goes into finding the best technique for you.
When we get glasses, we’re bending the light away from our eyes. But with laser surgery, we’re shaping the cornea to reflect the light on its own, allowing you to see. The eye surgeons do this with a special type of cutting laser.
Individual surgeons may specialize in different types of surgery. At Boston Eye Physicians, specialists that do surgery are Anthony Fraioli, M.D., Kevin Kaufman, M.D. Ph.D., and Cecily Hamill, M.D. Ph.D.
Most types of laser eye surgeries do the same things, but use different techniques that set them apart depending on the patient and their eyes. Surgeons at BEPS specialize in cataract surgery and ocular plastic surgery. When you visit your doctor for a consultation, s/he will tell you which type of surgery is best for you. Your doctor will examine your eyes and ask you details about your eye health and take a general health history to see if you have any conditions that may affect the outcome of the surgery. This includes eye injuries, history of your family’s eye conditions, dry eyes, or glaucoma. The best technique for doctor to use during Lasik surgery is subjective, and different upon every patient’s health.
If you have mild vision problems, you’re definitely in the right place to consider Lasik surgery. The surgery tends to be less effective the more trouble you have seeing. If you have Astigmatism, you may be a candidate for surgery. If you wear contacts, be sure to stop wearing them for three weeks before the surgery. They distort the natural shape of your cornea, so you want to leave them out for a while to let your eyes get back to their natural shape to prep for surgery.
The surgery tends to have few complications. After the surgery, expect to have some itchiness, irritation, and slight visual disturbances. Double vision and dry eyes are both common side effects post op.
Some insurance plans don’t cover the cost of laser eye surgery, so be sure you can afford it before jumping into a consultation. You want to be realistic and logical when making the best decision for the health of your vision. Boston Eye Physicians and Surgeons accept most major insurance providers. Please remember to bring your insurance card(s) and call your primary care physician for a referral, if needed. Please call our insurance specialist at (617) 232-9600 if you have any questions.
Boston Eye Physicians & Surgeons has served patients in New England and around the world for nearly 75 years. We have been a destination for patients seeking high quality eye care from a team composed of the area’s leading vision professionals. Contact us at (617)- 232-9600.
