Q. What is LASIK?
A. LASIK, also known as laser vision correction, is a surgical procedure that can reduce a persons dependency on glasses or contact lenses by permanently changing the shape of the cornea. LASIK uses an Excimer Laser (an ultraviolet laser) to precisely remove corneal tissue to correct the shape for better focusing.
Q. What are the guidelines and recommendations for having the Lasik Procedure?
A. The FDA, in cooperation with the American Academy of Ophthalmology, has developed the following guidelines and recommendations for good candidates for LASIK:
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The member should be at least 18 years old (21 for some lasers), since the vision of people younger than 18 usually continues to change. An exception is the small child with one very nearsighted and one normal eye. The use of LASIK to correct the very nearsighted eye may prevent amblyopia (lazy eye).
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The member should not be pregnant or nursing because these conditions might change the measured refraction of the eye.
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The member should not be taking certain prescription drugs, such as Accutane or oral prednisone.
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The members eyes must be healthy and their prescription stable. If the member is nearsighted, he/she should postpone LASIK until their refraction has stabilized, because myopia may continue to increase in some patients until their mid to late 20s.
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Members should be in good general health. LASIK may not be recommended for patients with diabetes, rheumatoid arthritis, lupus, glaucoma, herpes infections of the eye, or cataracts.
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Weigh the risks and rewards. If the member is happy wearing contacts or glasses, they may want to forego the surgery.
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Understand the expectations from the surgery. Are they realistic?
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For patients with presbyopia, LASIK cannot correct their vision so that one eye can see BOTH distance and near. However, LASIK can be used to correct one eye for distance and the other for near vision. If he/she can adjust to this correction, it may eliminate or reduce the need for reading glasses. In some instances, surgery on only one eye is required.
Q. How much can members expect to save with this benefit?
A. The exact amount the member will save depends upon the provider selected. Most providers guarantee discounts from 10% to 30%. After a provider is selected, the member is recommended to call the provider's office to learn what level of discount is offered.
Q. Can members go to any LASIK provider to receive a discount?
A. To receive a discount on services, the member must go to a participating provider. To find a participating provider, the member can call the toll free number located on their membership card. |
