What Should You Ask at Your Laser Eye Surgery Consultation?
Laser Eye Surgery is more accessible today than it ever has been. There are a number of reasons behind this, including the introduction of new techniques, more advanced technology and, of course, a higher number of clinics. But while some adverts and marketing campaigns may make it sound like Laser Eye Surgery is an option for all, the reality is that nothing is for everyone.
Okay, at a well-equipped clinic today, over 96% of patients will be suitable candidates for Laser Eye Surgery treatments. It can be an option for people of all ages – whether you’re 21 or 70 – and even for those with very high prescriptions.
So, although there is a good chance you will be eligible for treatment, it is important to know that this might not be the case. This may be due to underlying conditions, the severity of your prescription, or your eye health.
Your suitability for Laser Eye Surgery can only be accurately determined with a thorough consultation. During this appointment, when you meet with one of our expert ophthalmic surgeons, you will undergo a series of tests and examinations. But it is also a great opportunity to ask any questions related to your treatment.
To help you feel more prepared, we’ve compiled a selection of questions you may want to ask your surgeon during your consultation. The answers to these questions may well help you decide whether Laser Eye Surgery is right for you.
Am I a suitable candidate for Laser Eye Surgery?
Let’s kick off with the most obvious question. Of course, this is what our consultations are designed to figure out and, in general, we won’t be able to answer this question with 100% certainty until all test results come back. However, we can get a good idea of your suitability by considering several factors, such as your age, your current health, and your family history of eye disease.
When it comes to your age, Laser Eye Surgery is typically only recommended for people aged 21 and over (or 18 at the very youngest). This is because unstable hormones can cause your vision to fluctuate, and a stable prescription is required to ensure an effective treatment.
Similarly, hormone changes during pregnancy and while breastfeeding can also cause fluctuations in your prescription. You will therefore be temporarily unsuitable for Laser Eye Surgery at these times; however, you may be a candidate once your hormones return to their normal levels.
Conditions that may affect your suitability for Laser Eye Surgery include uncontrolled diabetes and glaucoma. However, if this is the case, alternative treatment options may be available to you.
Does the surgeon have the highest standard of training?
The surgeon is at the heart of every Laser Eye Surgery procedure. While there are some regulations in place that control who can perform your procedure, the standard of training and qualifications can vary significantly from surgeon to surgeon. As such, the standard of treatment also varies from clinic to clinic.
Current regulations stipulate that to perform Laser Eye Surgery, surgeons must be registered with the General Medical Council (GMC). The Royal College of Ophthalmologists also provides a certificate in laser refractive surgery; however, this only requires completion of a one-day examination.
So, how do you spot a surgeon with a high level of training? It is a good idea to ask if they have specialist fellowship training in the procedure you are interested in. This demonstrates they are skilled to the highest standard. Unfortunately, this type of training is limited in the UK, so it is not uncommon for surgeons to learn more about the procedure while on the job.
How many procedures has the surgeon performed?
Even the most highly trained surgeons require practice to reach the best of their abilities. Even with all the knowledge in the world, a lack of practical experience can hinder their performance.
Typically, a Laser Eye Surgeon will perform around 300 or more procedures every year. Of course, quantity isn’t everything. This is especially true when considering that some clinics push their surgeons to meet high quotas, which can inevitably impact on the care and quality of each treatment.
In addition to asking how many procedures your surgeon has performed, you may also wish to ask about their personal outcomes. These will be different to the outcomes of the clinic as a whole.
What results can I expect from Laser Eye Surgery?
This is probably one of the most pressing questions you have when heading to your Laser Eye Surgery consultation. After all, that’s what the treatment is all about, right?
Well, while this can vary significantly from patient to patient, it is possible to get a good idea. For example, most Laser Eye Surgery patients can achieve the average standard of 20/20 vision. But it’s important to ask about the clinic’s results for patients with a similar prescription to your own.
Will I need glasses or contact lenses after surgery?
Most people opt for Laser Eye Surgery in order to get rid of their glasses or contact lenses. Likewise, some clinics may imply that, with treatment, you will never need to wear visual aids again. However, this isn’t necessarily the case.
Of course, many patients are able to achieve visual acuity that is equal to, if not better than, their best-corrected vision with glasses or contact lenses. However, every patient and their circumstances are different.
For instance, while the effects of Laser Eye Surgery are permanent, the procedure cannot stop the onset of presbyopia (ageing eyes). It is, therefore, likely that you will still require reading glasses in the future. However, presbyopia can also be treated with a Laser Eye Surgery procedure known as PRESBYOND® Laser Blended Vision.
How long do the results of Laser Eye Surgery last?
As mentioned above, the changes made to the eye during Laser Eye Surgery are permanent. Moreover, while the procedure is still relatively new, studies have shown that long-term outcomes are extremely good. Indeed, many patients enjoy their new vision for ten or even twenty years after their treatment.
But again, everyone’s eyes are different. There is no way to know exactly how long you could be enjoying improved vision after Laser Eye Surgery – especially with presbyopia to contend with!
Do you offer chocolates and a massage?
So, this question may not be at the top of your list when heading into a Laser Eye Surgery clinic. And yet, these small details can make all the difference when it comes to having a stress-free treatment.
At London Vision Clinic, we strive to take care of every small detail to make your experience as enjoyable as possible. That’s why we offer complimentary chocolates, tasty drinks, and yes – even a head massage as you prepare for your treatment!
When having treatment on something as important as your eyes, you want to know that you’re in good hands from start to finish. With features such as a high staff-to-patient ratio and being able to contact your surgeon directly after your treatment, the London Vision Clinic is a great choice.
If you’d like to learn more about what to expect from a consultation at London Vision Clinic, get in touch with one of our friendly clinic coordinators today. Alternatively, to kickstart your Laser Eye Surgery journey, Book a Consultation at our Harley Street clinic.
