Possible Side-Effects and Complications from Lasik Surgery

There isn't a medical procedure that comes without some sort of risk. Truth is, there isn't much you can do in life without a level of risk. The good news is, there are few operations as safe as lasik vision correction. Quick, reletively painless, short recovery time and a somewhat low risk operations. It's no wonder lasik is one of the most popular medical procedures done in America. This doesn't mean it's completely without risk, but most people will end up with 20/20 vision after their first surgery. Still, be wary of doctors who over a 20/20 guarantee.

Take some time to talk over the risks and potential complications that may folllow your surgery with your doctor. If you're not completely comfortable, dont' go forward. It is an elective procedure and for most people it's not something compeltely necessary. These are some of the more common side effects patients will experience.

Strong or weak correction - When there is an over or under correction of your vision you may have to go in for a follow-up enhancement surgery.

Eye Dryness - Within the first 3-6 months, a very common side-effect is some sort of dry eye condition. Most likely, your doctor will treat this with eye drops designed to lubricate your eyes.

Eye Sensitivity - This is usually a sensitivity to strong glares. Even though these symptoms may go away with time, you should let your doctor know.

Blurry Vision - If you start to experience blurry vision, let your doctor know right away. It's not something you need to be alarmed with as it will usually go away in time.

Infected Eye - Any sort of contamination can lead to an eye infection, so make sure you keep your eyes clean and follow your doctors instructions. If you do end up with an infection, expect to take some antibiotics and it should clear up.

Superficial Scaring - This could be one of the outcomes from an infection. It is treatable with a future procedure.

Thinning Cornea - Your doctor will typical plan for some degree of thinning, but it can go beyond what they expected. This happens in about 1 out of every 10,000 procedures. Your doctor will check for this in your follow up procedures.

Again, it can't be emphasised enought that this is a very safe and straight forward procedure. Lasik vision correction is performed in offices across America every day without and trouble. Check with your doctor, ask about the risks and then go forward confidently.

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March 10 2009 | Cosmetic Surgery | No Comments »

What You Need To Know About Lasik Vision Surgery Costs.

Over the past few years the cost for just about every medical procedure has gone up faster than you can imagine. You've most likely seen this cost show up in your monthly insurance premiums. While this has happened for just about every other type of surgery, lasik vision seems to have bucked this trend. Costs for laser vision correction have remained very stable.

When you shop around for lasik surgery and see prices advertised, keep in mind these prices are per eye. If you're having both eyes done (as most people do) the cost will double. Over the past year the prices has remained fairly consistent between $2000 and $2200 per eye. Some doctors with additional training or newer equipment will pass those costs on to your, the patient, and you'll see prices closer to $2500. This additional cost may be worth it for you, but do shop around.

If you live in a more rural area, you may find prices slightly lower than these averages. At the same time, you may not have the latest equipment available to you. This may not matter in your decision; after all, 5 year old equipment worked just fine 5 years ago when it was cutting edge. If you do want to get the latest advances at the most affordable cost, it may be advantageous for you to look at the closest metropolitan area for your surgery. Because the recovery time is so mild and relatively quick, some people will make a semi-vacation out of the surgery. A Friday surgery, weekend recovery and then a few days to explore the city with your new set of eyes.

IntraLase is a new technology which allows surgeons to perform lasik vision correction without using a blade. A laser will actually cut the corneal flap which gives a much cleaner cut, less risk of infection and faster healing. Of course, this comes at a cost, but it may be worth it for you. Typically doctors are charging about $250 extra for this option.

Be very wary of anyone offering lasik at prices that just "seem" too low. These bargain prices have been the subject of several investigations and lawsuits in several states. In one particular case out of Florida, a lasik office was fined by the state and ordered to correct their misleading advertising. What they'll typically do is quote a very low price for you, require a non-refundable deposit and then hit you with all the "extras" such as anesthesia, post operative exams, facility charges and more. These are clearly items that are not optional. Once they have your deposit, there's no backing out. Be very careful of anyone trying to do the same type of arm twisting.

Because lasik is an outpatient process that seems relatively fast and painless, many people wonder why it costs over $2000 per eye. There are a lot of costs that factor into these prices. Right off the bat, there actually is a royalty paid to the laser company that invented this procedure. Lasik surgery is a very competitive business, which helps keep the cost down overall, but it also means doctors will have to spend a good portion of their budget on advertising. This cost is obviously passed on to you. Also, even though lasik is safe and quick, there's still a liability the doctor takes on and must be insured for. Those premiums are added into the cost of your surgery too. The more fancy the office the most cost to you as well.

Many of the larger laser eye surgery centers will offer very affordable payment plans. These will often include no money down and even no interest charges. Be sure you shop around for the best deal. Remember, you're borrowing money, so remember to look at costs if your decide to pay off the loan early or late fees which can quickly add in additional charges and may even suddenly introduce a very high interest rate.

This is no place to get frugal. After all, this is your vision you're talking about. Ask around for referrals and look for an experienced doctor who treats you as an important patient, not just another number to run through the "lasik mill." This can be a very positive experience if you do your research and don't rush into it.

Tags: contact lenses, Cosmetic Surgery, eye sight, eye surgery, glasses, health, lasik, lasik cost, lasik post surgery, lasik surgery, lasik vision, lasik vision surgery, vision, vision correction

March 01 2009 | Cosmetic Surgery | No Comments »