Laser Eye Surgery: Choose Wisely

December 1, 2000

Consumers need to educate themselves carefully about the various laser eye surgery treatments, experts warned in a recent article on CNN.com. While procedures such as LASIK have enjoyed enormous growth in popularity, it is still up to the individual to investigate the procedures, the operating doctor, and the potential risks involved.

LASIK uses a laser to reshape the cornea, correcting nearsightedness, farsightedness and astigmatism. But, like any surgery, it involves a failure rate, and therefore an element of risk. “The procedure is very effective,” claims Dr. Stephen G. Slade, a refractive surgery expert, “but it’s not perfect as surgery.”

To aid consumers in their search for information, the FDA has established a web site that offers accurate consumer information, according to David Feigal, who runs the FDA’s Center for Devices and Radiological Health. The web site, located at www.fda.gov/cdrh/lasik includes basic information about the procedure and the older methods of surgical eye correction, including radial keratotomy (RK) and photorefractive keratectomy (PRK). The site also outlines risks and provides tips on what consumers should look for in a quality LASIK treatment.

For more information on LASIK and other vision correction procedures, please contact a LASIK surgeon near you by selecting a state below for a consultation.