May 15, 2023

Before recommending LASIK eye surgery, a good ophthalmologist will always do a thorough eye exam to ensure the patient is safe. The surgeon will go the extra mile to prioritize their patient's well-being before and during the procedure. This level of care distinguishes skilled LASIK eye surgeons from those who prioritize profits over patient safety.

Before undergoing laser eye surgery, a thorough evaluation is necessary to determine if you are a suitable candidate. Your doctor may do several tests to check the overall health of your eyes and see if the procedure will improve your vision. Even though the tests are long, each one is important to ensure you are safe during and after surgery.

To help you prepare for your initial evaluation, here are a few things you can expect during the examination.

Screening for Preexisting Eye Conditions

As part of your initial evaluation for LASIK eye surgery, your ophthalmologist will screen you for preexisting eye conditions. Your doctor will ask about your medical history and perform various tests to determine if you are an ideal candidate for the procedure.

According to the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA), certain eye conditions will disqualify you from LASIK surgery. These include uveitis, iritis, blepharitis, keratoconus, dry eye syndrome, glaucoma, cataracts, retinal problems, and a high degree of refractive error. LASIK may not be safe or effective for you if you have any of these conditions.

 

Treating or Resolving Eye Conditions

Patients with a treatable condition may qualify for LASIK surgery. For example, patients with dry eye syndrome are not ideal candidates for LASIK. But if the condition is treatable, the ophthalmologist will try to resolve it first to make the patient eligible for the procedure.

In mild cases of dry eye syndrome, the doctor may use artificial tears before the surgery. Alternatively, they may prescribe a special eye drop to cure dry eye syndrome permanently. The eye doctor will let the patient have LASIK once the preexisting condition has been treated and the patient is no longer at risk.

 

Conducting a Series of Specialized Tests

For laser eye surgery, the pre-op evaluation follows strict rules to ensure it is as precise and accurate as possible. One of the most important tests you'll have is corneal topography, which shows your cornea in 3D. This test involves specialized equipment that measures the shape and thickness of your corneas.

By shining light directly onto the surface of your eyes, the equipment creates a map of the cornea's curvature and identifies any irregularities. This information is crucial in determining the most suitable course of treatment for you.

It's essential to learn about what to expect during your first consultation for laser eye surgery, but it's just as important to talk to a good ophthalmologist. Don't hesitate to voice your concerns and expectations during your first visit. A good doctor will take the time to listen to your questions and provide clear, honest answers. Remember, this is your opportunity to learn more about the procedure and determine if it's right for you, so don't be afraid to speak up.


If you have questions about the LASIK preoperative exam, don't hesitate to call Modern iCare Optometry at 760-674-7272. Our staff will be more than happy to answer your questions. You may also visit our office in Palm Desert, California.