2 Alternatives to Consider If You Don’t Qualify For LASIK

Are you interested in getting LASIK? Did you know that you have to be a good candidate to get the procedure?

For the best possible results, the FDA has certain guidelines and qualifications for LASIK candidates. These help your surgeon make sure that LASIK is the best laser eye surgery for your health, vision, and lifestyle.

If you do not qualify for LASIK, it is important to remember there are alternatives. No matter what procedure you have, laser vision correction is a big deal! Correcting your vision will change your life for the better.

Laser eye or vision correction surgery is any procedure that uses a laser to correct your vision. Millions of lives have been improved because of the technological advancements to tools and software.

The most common type of laser eye correction surgery is LASIK. LASIK works because it reshapes your cornea. This option isn’t safe for everyone, which is why there are alternatives. Keep reading to learn about two LASIK alternatives!

PRK

PRK (photorefractive keratectomy) is another type of laser surgery that is like LASIK. It can correct low and medium amounts of astigmatism, nearsightedness, or farsightedness.

Like LASIK, PRK uses a laser to reshape your cornea. But the laser only reshapes the surface of the cornea and doesn’t create a flap as LASIK does.

One of the biggest differences between PRK and LASIK is flap creation. LASIK involves creating a flap, which heals on its own.

PRK does not involve creating a flap but instead removes the epithelium, which can take several weeks to heal. The recovery after PRK does take longer than LASIK, but the results are almost identical.

PRK is a great option if your corneas are too thin or you’ve been told that you aren’t a candidate for LASIK. PRK can also help treat other eye conditions.

Visian ICL

The Visian ICL is known as an implantable contact lens. If you have very poor vision, then the ICL might be a good option if you aren’t a good candidate for LASIK or PRK.

The ICL works because an implantable contact lens is placed in front of the eye’s natural lens. Your natural lens is not removed, so your eyes can still naturally focus. You can have the ICL removed at any time because it’s not permanent.

It is important to work with your doctor to make sure you are getting the vision correction surgery that is best for your eyes and lifestyle. You want to make sure that you have a good experience and that the results match your expectations.

Write down any questions you have for your doctor to make sure you do not forget anything during your consultation.

Are you interested in learning about alternatives to LASIK eye surgery? The best way to find out is by meeting with an eye doctor for an appointment and learning about your options.

If you’re tired of glasses and contacts, you may still be able to achieve visual freedom even if LASIK isn’t right for you. Schedule an appointment at Mid Ohio Eye in Columbus, OH today to learn more!