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Before undergoing LASIK laser eye surgery, it is important for patients to research success rates and potential complications thoroughly. The best way to do this is to consult with a trusted ophthalmologist, but these statistics related to LASIK effectiveness are a good way to get started.

LASIK Success Rates

In recent studies, the American Association of Professional Eyecare Specialists found that more than half of LASIK patients (55.3 percent) have achieved vision of 20/20 or better, and a staggering 92.6 percent of LASIK enjoy vision of 20/40 or better. The FDA measures LASIK success by the number of patients who achieve 20/40 vision or better, as this is the minimum visual acuity required for drivers in most states. National figures regarding LASIK success rates are helpful, but the best way to determine the success you may enjoy after LASIK surgery is to talk with your ophthalmologist. Ask how many LASIK procedures he or she has performed, and what kind of results are normally achieved by his or her patients. It is also a good idea to talk with people who have undergone LASIK laser eye surgery with local ophthalmologists to learn about the LASIK experience. Ask LASIK patients about the procedure and the results and/or side effects they experienced after LASIK to get an idea of what you can expect.

LASIK Side Effects and Complications

While there is a risk of complications with every surgical procedure, very few patients experience negative side effects. In fact, the FDA has reported that only 1 to 5 percent of LASIK patients encounter complications after laser eye surgery. Most LASIK side effects experienced by patients are mild, and may include light sensitivity and the appearance of halos around light sources. Only 3 percent of LASIK patients report decreased visual clarity after surgery, and the vast majority of patients enjoy clearer vision and a reduced dependency on glasses and contacts. To learn more about LASIK as well as cataracts and other eye care issues, we encourage you to visit our laser eye surgery office on Long Island.

Cataracts are evident by the clouding of vision as the cataract grows. The lens of the eye develops a layer of a cloudy layer on the eye itself. There are many questions for someone who has been diagnosed with cataract. But, fortunately, there are treatments to reverse the effects of cataracts. These are some of the most frequently asked questions from those who have cataracts.

What are cataracts?

As we get older the proteins in the eye start to break down and clump together. These clumps form a cloudy layer over the eye lens.

What causes cataracts?

Nobody knows why some people develop cataracts and other people do not. There has been some recent research that has shown a likely cause of cataracts may be exposure to sunlight over one’s life.

What are the symptoms of cataracts?

The first symptom is slightly clouding vision. This process may be gradual. There may not be any symptoms at first but there is a growing cloudiness in vision. Colors may not seem as vibrant and your eyes may be more sensitive to the light.

Can cataract be removed safely?

Yes, in most cases, cataract removal surgery is a very safe procedure. It has been performed for many years and for most surgeons it is considered routine.

What are the risk factors that cause cataracts?

While it is not known for sure why some people develop cataracts there are some risk factors that may be considered. Cigarette smoke has been determined to be a contributing factor for developing cataracts. Air pollutions and other eye irritants are also thought to be a cause. Finally, the heavy use of alcohol has been shown to perhaps lead to the development of cataracts. While cataracts are not what anyone wants to have, they do not have to be a debilitating condition. If you live a healthy life, abstain from smoking and excessive alcohol use, as well as eat a diet that is high in antioxidants you can give yourself a much better chance of avoiding cataracts. To learn more about cataracts as well as LASIK laser vision correction, visit our laser eye surgery office on Long Island.