Faq - Contoura Vision & Lasik Laser Surgery

Can I Get LASIK If I Have Thin Corneas?

LASIK surgery typically isn't recommended for individuals with thin corneas because the procedure involves reshaping the cornea by creating a flap. Thin corneas may not provide enough tissue for this process, increasing the risk of complications like corneal ectasia. However, alternative procedures like PRK (Photorefractive Keratectomy) or implantable contact lenses may be viable options.

Consulting with an experienced ophthalmologist is crucial to assess your specific case and determine the most suitable course of action for vision correction. They can evaluate factors beyond corneal thickness to ensure the safest and most effective procedure for your eyes.

Can I Have LASIK If I’m Pregnant?

LASIK is not recommended during pregnancy due to hormonal changes affecting vision. These fluctuations can lead to temporary refractive changes, making it difficult to accurately assess your vision. Additionally, the safety of LASIK during pregnancy hasn't been extensively studied, and potential risks to the fetus remain uncertain.

It's advisable to wait until after pregnancy and breastfeeding to undergo LASIK surgery. In the meantime, consult with an ophthalmologist for temporary vision correction options like glasses or contact lenses that can accommodate your changing vision during pregnancy. Always prioritize the health and safety of both you and your baby.

Can I Drive Home After LASIK?

Yes, you can typically drive yourself home after LASIK, but it's important to follow your doctor's advice. Most patients experience improved vision immediately after the procedure, though some may have temporary blurriness or discomfort. Your doctor will assess your vision and confirm if it's safe for you to drive.

Ensure you have someone available to accompany you if needed, and follow any post-operative instructions diligently for optimal recovery. It's essential to prioritize your safety and adhere to professional medical guidance regarding driving and any other activities post-LASIK.

Amblyopia is treatable with lasik?

No, amblyopia, commonly known as lazy eye, is not treatable with LASIK (Laser-Assisted in Situ Keratomileusis) surgery. LASIK corrects refractive errors like nearsightedness, farsightedness, and astigmatism by reshaping the cornea, but it doesn't address the underlying neurological condition causing amblyopia. Amblyopia typically results from abnormal visual development in infancy and childhood, where one eye is favored over the other.

Treatment usually involves corrective lenses, eye patches, vision therapy, or a combination of these methods to strengthen the weaker eye and improve binocular vision. Early detection and intervention are crucial for better outcomes.

Can lasik be done after cataract surgery?

Yes, Lasik surgery can be performed after cataract surgery to further improve vision. Cataract surgery involves replacing the cloudy lens with a clear artificial one, but it doesn't always correct refractive errors like nearsightedness, farsightedness, or astigmatism. Lasik can address these issues by reshaping the cornea, enhancing visual acuity.

However, it's essential to wait until the eye has fully healed from cataract surgery before considering Lasik, typically around three months. Consultation with an ophthalmologist is crucial to assess individual candidacy and ensure the best outcome for vision correction.

Can lasik be done without making a flap?

Yes, a flapless LASIK procedure, known as PRK (Photorefractive Keratectomy), is an alternative for those who may not be suitable candidates for traditional LASIK due to thin corneas or other factors. In PRK, instead of creating a flap on the cornea, the outer layer (epithelium) is gently removed, allowing the laser to reshape the underlying corneal tissue.

While recovery may take a bit longer compared to LASIK, PRK can still offer excellent vision correction results with minimal risk of flap-related complications. It's essential to consult with an eye surgeon to determine the most suitable procedure for individual needs.

How safe is driving after lasik? When can I resume it?

Driving after LASIK typically becomes safe once your vision stabilizes, usually within a week or two post-surgery. However, it's crucial to follow your doctor's recommendations and wait until they confirm your eyes have healed adequately. Factors such as individual healing speed and any complications can affect this timeline.

Additionally, ensure you pass any required vision tests before driving. Always prioritize safety; if you experience any discomfort, blurred vision, or other issues while driving, stop immediately and consult your eye care professional.

Does the government scheme cover lasik surgery?

No, typically government healthcare schemes do not cover LASIK surgery unless it's deemed medically necessary due to specific eye conditions. LASIK is considered an elective procedure for vision correction rather than a medical necessity in most cases. Government healthcare programs prioritize essential medical needs and treatments that are necessary to maintain or improve health.

However, private insurance plans may offer coverage for LASIK surgery depending on the policy terms and the individual's specific coverage. It's advisable to check with your insurance provider or healthcare authority for precise details on coverage options.

How safe is lasik surgery?

LASIK surgery is generally considered safe and effective for correcting vision problems like nearsightedness, farsightedness, and astigmatism. Complications are rare, with most patients experiencing improved vision immediately or shortly after the procedure. However, like any surgical procedure, there are potential risks, including dry eyes, glare, halos, under-correction, over-correction, and infection.

Choosing an experienced surgeon, undergoing thorough preoperative evaluation, and following post-operative care instructions can minimize these risks. While the vast majority of patients achieve satisfactory results, it's essential to discuss potential risks and benefits with an eye care professional before deciding on LASIK surgery.

When can start physical activities such as gym or running after lasik?

After LASIK surgery, it's typically recommended to wait about one to two weeks before resuming strenuous physical activities like gym workouts or running. This allows your eyes to heal properly and reduces the risk of complications. However, it's crucial to follow your surgeon's specific instructions, as recovery times can vary based on individual factors. Be sure to avoid activities that could expose your eyes to potential trauma or excessive strain during the initial healing period. Consult with your eye care provider for personalized guidance on when it's safe to resume your desired physical activities post-LASIK.

Can I smoke or take alcohol after lasik?

After LASIK surgery, it's best to avoid smoking and alcohol consumption during the initial recovery period, typically around one to two weeks. Smoking can irritate the eyes and impede the healing process, while alcohol can increase the risk of dry eye symptoms and interfere with medications prescribed for post-operative care.

Both substances can also potentially compromise your immune system, which is important for a successful recovery. It's crucial to follow your surgeon's specific post-operative instructions for the safest and most effective recovery.

When can I swim after lasik?

Swimming, in general, is safest after 3-4 weeks of LASIK or a laser eye surgery where a ‘flap’ has been made. It is also best to always use swimming goggles in chlorinated pools to protect the eyes from allergies post swimming.

Many undergo LASIK or laser eye surgery during their vacation and time may be spent near a beach or a pool. It is alright to ‘wade’ in the water with swim eyewear, or if just ‘lounging’ by the pool, with sunglasses within a few days of the treatment.