Do eye doctors get LASIK? Read on to learn about my personal experience.
I'm myopic and have worn glasses since I was 8 years old, so I understand the desire to wake up and see the world without having to reach for glasses. I also love to travel — particularly to remote seaside locations — so I've longed to BE in the ocean rather than merely staying in the shallow waters where I won't accidentally submerge my head.
There is a misconception that optometrists DON'T want patients to get LASIK because that will mean fewer spectacles & contact lens sales. Let me be clear: although optometrists may sell glasses (and actually, many don't!), the primary objective of any good optometrist is — and will always be — for our patients to see clearly and comfortably, so that they can do the things in life that they want to do. We are here to support and guide patients to make the best decision for their lifestyle needs. I also personally know MANY optometrists who have undergone LASIK themselves, and while I was hesitant at first (I had to think long and hard about the risks) I am now one of them!
That being said, LASIK will greatly reduce patients' dependence on glasses & contact lenses, but will not forever eliminate the need for them (more on that later). Patients should also still see an optometrist regularly for annual eye exams to monitor the health of their eyes, even after LASIK. Remember, that an eye that was once myopic will still have myopia-associated risks for certain eye conditions; and systemic health conditions & medications have effects on eye health as well.
I'm a generally risk-averse person, so I considered the pros & cons of LASIK for a very long time (years!) before finally committing to the decision. I would also recommend that you take your time in making an informed decision. While it is generally a very safe surgery and majority (over 90%) of people are happy with the results, there are still risks of complications involved just as in any surgery. While the risk of developing a complication is low, it is still possible. Ensuring you are a good candidate for the procedure will minimize your risk of an adverse event, so get a proper assessment and get the opinion of a trusted eye doctor. A high quality surgery centre is also imperative; customized or bladeless options are not available at every centre, and each surgeon is slightly different in their technique and after-care.
Read on to find out more important information about LASIK, things to consider before deciding to get LASIK, and my own personal experience with LASIK.
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