Understanding Lasik Eye Surgery

Understanding Lasik Eye Surgery

By Dr. Nancy Snyderman

You've probably seen advertisements for LASIK eye surgery, the hot procedure for correcting nearsightedness. And you may be tempted, because the procedure is touted as safe and painless. Keep this in mind, though: The Food and Drug Administration has not yet approved LASIK (laser in situ keratomileusis), or set guidelines for whom it is suitable. While the majority of patients who have the operation are pleased afterward, a number end up with poorer vision than they had with corrective lenses. Plus, they may now need to wear reading glasses as well.

The surgery won't correct severe nearsightedness, warns Douglas Koch, M.D., professor of ophthalmology at Baylor College of Medicine, nor is it for those who have large pupils and need higher amounts of correction. Interview surgeons closely; avoid anyone who gives you a hard sell (LASIK is being peddled aggressively) or who won't discuss possible complications up front. Also, ask how many procedures the doctor has performed and how successful they have been; this surgery requires experience and skill. LASIK costs about $4,000 to $5,000 for both eyes.