Having lasik surgery can be a life changing experience. It is also a big commitment of time and money, however. It is important that you are prepared mentally, physically and financially. So what can you do to prepare yourself once you have decided to explore lasik vision correction surgery?
For me, one of the biggest preparations I had to make was overcoming my fear. This was accomplished by talking to friends who had had the procedure, my family members and consulting at length with the doctor performing the procedure and his staff. If you have any fears, doubts or questions, it is crucial that you express them and have them addressed by your lasik surgeon prior to committing to the surgery. In the end, my desire to improve my vision won out over my fear of surgery. This could not have been accomplished without talking to those I trusted and most importantly my doctor.
I think it is also very important to have realistic expectations regarding lasik. Lasik surgery can improve your vision and end your dependence on glasses or contacts which can have a tremendous impact on your daily life. Lasik is not, however, a miracle. It is a surgical procedure which requires a recovery period. Your eyesight takes time to improve and stabilize. You may experience some discomfort. You may need to continue to wear glasses for a time. Talk to you doctor at length and set your expectations accordingly.
I also suggest getting to know your doctor and his or her staff. I do not mean get to know them on a personal level, but talk with or introduce yourself to the staff members as well as the lasik surgeon. Your doctor is not the only one who will have a hand in setting appointments, providing pre and post surgical care and addressing your questions or needs so try to meet as many staff members as possible. You are trusting your doctor and his staff with your care so it is a good idea to make sure that you are comfortable with everyone involved.
In terms of paying for lasik surgery, you will know how much your lasik surgery will cost once you have your consultation and the doctor determines that you are a suitable candidate for the procedure. I shopped around a bit to compare prices, but price was not my biggest concern. I definitely wouldn’t suggest using price as the determining factor in choosing a surgeon. Since most insurance plans do not cover lasik, you will need to figure out how you will pay. Whether you save up or finance, I suggest planning for the expense as far in advance as possible. Go over your finances and determine which method of payment is best for you as well as how much you can afford to pay. Once I decided to start looking into lasik, I started putting money away. I did not want another monthly bill so I decided against financing. Because I was in no hurry to have the surgery and took my sweet time researching lasik, I had time to put aside money for the procedure.
The last thing I did in preparation for lasik was to plan for my recovery period. I made sure I had someone who could drive me to and from the doctor’s office. I was scheduled for surgery on a Wednesday afternoon so I took Thursday and Friday off from work. I made sure I had nothing planned in the days immediately following my surgery. I had a terrific friend checking in on me and on standby in case I needed anything or any emergencies arose.
Being as prepared as possible goes a long way toward making your lasik vision correction experience a positive one. Talk to your doctor and plan ahead. Follow the advice of your doctor to the letter and be prepared.