The decision to get LASIK surgery for your eyes should go beyond just finding the nearest clinic or the cheapest price. LASIK can be a life-changing procedure — but it’s still surgery. That means asking the right questions is essential.
Here are the top questions to ask before getting LASIK Surgery so you can make an informed choice about your vision.
1. How do I know if I’m a good candidate for LASIK surgery?
You may be a good candidate for LASIK eye surgery if you:
- Are over 18 years old. This is to make sure your eyes have stopped developing.
- Have had a stable vision prescription for at least 12 months?
- Have healthy eyes free from conditions like severe dry eye, glaucoma, or cataracts.
- Have adequate corneal thickness, so the laser can safely reshape your cornea.
- Are not pregnant or breastfeeding, as hormonal changes can affect vision stability.
Your suitability will be determined through a comprehensive pre-operative eye exam, where the ophthalmologist will measure corneal thickness, map your eye shape, check tear production, and assess your prescription.
If you have extreme prescriptions, thin corneas, or certain eye diseases, your surgeon may suggest an alternative procedure such as PRK or SMILE instead of LASIK.
2. What experience should my LASIK surgeon have?
Your surgeon’s experience directly influences your safety and results. Ideally, look for a surgeon who:
- Has performed hundreds, if not thousands, of LASIK procedures, not just a few dozen.
- Specialises in refractive surgery rather than general ophthalmology alone.
- Uses current-generation laser technology and stays updated with new techniques.
- Has a low complication rate and is willing to share their statistics.
- Is a member of recognised professional bodies, such as the Royal Australian and New Zealand College of Ophthalmologists (RANZCO).
Don’t hesitate to ask for patient testimonials, before-and-after results, and their specific success rate for patients with a prescription similar to yours from your ophthalmologist in Sydney. A good surgeon will answer these questions openly and without hesitation.
3. What technology is used in LASIK surgery?
LASIK techniques can differ. Ask:
- Which technology will be used for your surgery
- Why it’s recommended for your eyes
- If wavefront-guided or topography-guided LASIK will be used for precision
4. What are the risks and side effects of LASIK surgery?
LASIK has a high success rate, but like all surgical procedures, it carries risks.
Common short-term side effects, which are usually temporary, include:
- Dry eyes (especially in the first few months)
- Halos, Glare, or starbursts around lights, particularly at night
- Light sensitivity
- Fluctuating vision during the healing period
Less common but possible long-term risks:
- Undercorrection or overcorrection, requiring glasses or a second procedure.
- Persistent dry eye symptoms.
- Rare complications, such as infection or vision loss.
Most side effects improve as the eyes heal, but your surgeon should explain how they handle any complications and whether follow-up treatments are included in your package.
5. What results can I realistically expect after LASIK?
LASIK can reduce your need for contact lenses or glasses, but perfection isn’t guaranteed. Ask:
- What percentage of patients achieve 20/20 vision
- Whether you might still need glasses for certain tasks like reading or night driving.
Setting realistic expectations now helps avoid disappointment later.
6. How much does LASIK surgery cost in Australia?
LASIK costs vary between clinics. Confirm:
- The total price of the procedure
- What’s included like pre-surgery tests, follow-up visits, and post-op care.
- Payment plan availability.
Be cautious of very low prices, as they may exclude vital aftercare or use older technology.
7. What is the recovery time for LASIK surgery?
Many patients see improvement within 24 hours, but healing is individual. Ask:
- When you can return to work
- How soon you can drive
- When you can safely resume exercise, swimming, or wearing makeup
8. What should I do before LASIK surgery?
Pre-surgery preparation may include:
- Stopping contact lens use for a set period
- Avoiding certain medications
- Arranging a driver for after the procedure
Knowing these steps in advance ensures a smooth surgery day.
9. How many follow-up appointments will I need after LASIK?
Follow-up visits are vital to check healing and prevent complications. Ask:
- How many are included in your package
- Who will conduct the check-ups
- Whether there’s a cost for extra visits
10. What happens if I need a LASIK enhancement procedure?
Sometimes a second “touch-up” procedure is needed for the best results. Ask:
- How often are enhancements required
- If they’re included in your original fee
- The recommended wait time before considering one
Final Thoughts
LASIK can be a powerful step towards visual freedom, but it’s not a choice to rush. By asking these top questions to ask before getting LASIK surgery, you’ll know exactly what to expect, avoid hidden surprises, and choose a surgeon who inspires confidence.
2018 ·