LASIK Laser Eye Surgery Articles from
Albuquerque Vision Specialist Dr. John Teahan

Consumers Guide to LASIK
John J. Teahan

LASIK is the most popular vision correction procedure ever performed. LASIK is actually an acronym for Laser In-Situ Keratomileusis. It has been deemed by the American Society of Cataract & Refractive Surgeons and the Eye Surgery Educational Council to be a safe and effective treatment for a wide range of common vision disorders, including myopia (nearsightedness), hyperopia (farsightedness), and astigmatism. Since 1995, nearly three million people in the United States have successfully undergone the LASIK procedure.

LASIK is a quick and often painless procedure that for the vast majority of patients improves vision and reduces dependence on prescription eyewear. However, as in any surgical procedure, there are inherent risks, complications and side effects that can occur with LASIK. Therefore, it is essential that candidates considering this procedure be well informed and educated on both the benefits and the risks of LASIK.

The purpose of producing this educational guide is intended to help prospective patients make a more informed decision about improving their vision by reducing or eliminating their dependence on corrective eyewear through LASIK. The information presented in this guide is educational in nature and is not intended to serve as a substitute for medical advice, nor should it replace the informed consent process conducted by practices prior to patients having surgery.

Determining The Ideal Candidate for LASIK

The ideal candidate for LASIK should meet the following criteria:
1. Be at least 18 years of age
2. Have a stable prescription for glasses or contacts for at least 2 years
3. Have adequate corneal thickness and pupil size for the procedure
4. Have naturally occurring myopia, hyperopia and/or astigmatism
5. Does not suffer from any medical disease or vision impairment that could reduce the effectiveness of the procedure
6. Is adequately informed of the benefits and risks of the procedure
7. Has a desire to reduce their dependence on corrective eyewear
8. Have reasonable expectations.
Before choosing to have your LASIK procedure, be sure to discuss these parameters with your eyecare professional to determine if you meet all of the criteria.

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