Questions to Ask Before LASIK Eye Surgery
Essential questions to ask your LASIK surgeon to ensure you're fully informed about the procedure, risks, and recovery process.
1What are my candidacy requirements and do I meet them?
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What are my candidacy requirements and do I meet them?
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Why this works
Determines if you're a good candidate based on age, prescription stability, corneal thickness, and overall eye health.
2What are the potential risks and complications of LASIK?
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What are the potential risks and complications of LASIK?
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Why this works
Helps you understand the serious risks like dry eyes, night vision problems, and rare but serious complications.
3What is your experience level with LASIK procedures?
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What is your experience level with LASIK procedures?
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Why this works
Evaluates the surgeon's expertise and track record to ensure you're in capable hands.
4What technology and equipment will be used for my procedure?
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What technology and equipment will be used for my procedure?
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Why this works
Ensures you understand the specific laser technology and whether it's the latest available.
5What is the expected recovery timeline and process?
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What is the expected recovery timeline and process?
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Why this works
Helps you plan for time off work and understand what to expect during healing.
6What are the success rates for patients with my specific prescription?
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What are the success rates for patients with my specific prescription?
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Why this works
Gives you realistic expectations based on your individual case rather than general statistics.
7What follow-up care is included in the procedure cost?
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What follow-up care is included in the procedure cost?
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Why this works
Clarifies what's covered in your fee and what additional costs you might face.
8What activities should I avoid before and after surgery?
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What activities should I avoid before and after surgery?
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Why this works
Helps you prepare properly and avoid anything that could affect your results.
9What are the alternatives to LASIK for my situation?
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What are the alternatives to LASIK for my situation?
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Why this works
Ensures you understand all your options, including PRK, SMILE, or ICL procedures.
10What happens if I'm not satisfied with my results?
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What happens if I'm not satisfied with my results?
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Why this works
Clarifies the surgeon's policy on enhancements and what constitutes a successful outcome.
11How will you handle any complications that arise?
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How will you handle any complications that arise?
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Why this works
Ensures you know the surgeon's approach to managing any issues that occur.
12What medications or eye drops will I need to use?
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What medications or eye drops will I need to use?
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Why this works
Helps you understand the post-operative care routine and any costs involved.
13Can I see before and after photos of similar cases?
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Can I see before and after photos of similar cases?
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Why this works
Provides visual examples of the surgeon's work with patients who had similar prescriptions.
14What is your policy on touch-up procedures?
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What is your policy on touch-up procedures?
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Why this works
Clarifies if additional procedures are covered and under what circumstances.
15How long should I expect my vision to stabilize after surgery?
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How long should I expect my vision to stabilize after surgery?
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Why this works
Sets realistic expectations for the healing process and when you'll see final results.
16What are the long-term effects and maintenance requirements?
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What are the long-term effects and maintenance requirements?
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Why this works
Helps you understand if LASIK is permanent and what ongoing care might be needed.
17How do you handle patients who experience dry eyes after LASIK?
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How do you handle patients who experience dry eyes after LASIK?
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Why this works
Important for understanding management of the most common post-LASIK complication.
18What is your complication rate and how do you track outcomes?
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What is your complication rate and how do you track outcomes?
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Why this works
Provides transparency about the surgeon's safety record and quality monitoring.
19Can I speak with previous patients who had similar procedures?
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Can I speak with previous patients who had similar procedures?
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Why this works
Offers firsthand accounts of the experience and results from real patients.
20What should I do if I have concerns during my recovery?
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What should I do if I have concerns during my recovery?
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Why this works
Ensures you know how to reach the surgeon and what constitutes an emergency.
Best Practices for LASIK Consultation
Expert tips and techniques for getting the most out of these questions.
Pre-Consultation Preparation
Bring Your Medical History
Include any eye conditions, medications, and previous eye surgeries. This helps the surgeon assess your candidacy accurately.
Prepare a List of Questions
Write down all your concerns beforehand so you don't forget anything important during the consultation.
Bring a Support Person
Having someone with you can help you remember information and ask questions you might forget.
Understanding Your Evaluation
Comprehensive Eye Exam
Warning Signs to Watch For
Rushed Consultations
Beware of surgeons who don't spend adequate time explaining the procedure or answering your questions.
Pressure to Decide Immediately
A good surgeon will give you time to think and won't pressure you into booking the procedure right away.
Unrealistic Promises
Be cautious of surgeons who guarantee perfect vision or claim there are no risks involved.