Key Takeaways
LASIK is a wonderful, life-changing, life-enhancing procedure reported by millions of people all over the world boasting improved vision and ease of living without cumbersome glasses and contacts to hamper their daily living. LASIK was FDA-approved in North America in 1999, and since then has advanced from microkeratome, bladed technology to laser-assisted technology.
Recent FDA Guidance on LASIK
Despite the popularity of this vision correction procedure, the FDA recently issued a draft guidance in July 28, 2022 detailing what information should be given to patients, called "Laser-Assisted In Situ Keratomileusis (LASIK) Lasers - Patient Labeling Recommendations -Draft Guidance for Industry and Food and Drug Administration Staff" that resurfaced in December 2022. This is not the first time the FDA has weighed in on LASIK surgery, but the purpose of this latest draft serves to guide patients interested in LASIK to have a reference guide for candidacy.
However, the recent 2022 draft negatively skewed information presented to the public as "scare tactics" in alarming patients of potential risks and side effects rather than giving an unbiased, balanced representation of the safety and efficacy of LASIK. Ophthalmologists like Nader G. Iskander MD, FACS, who received specialized fellowship-refractive training, have personally witnessed the advancements made with LASIK over the last 2 decades and adopted these state-of-the-art precision lasers helping tens-of-thousands of patients enjoy the freedom of spectacle-free vision.
This draft does not mention the evolutionary advancement of laser technology since the debut of bladed-LASIK in 1999. Compared to the past, visual disturbances, such as glare, halos, or poor night driving have declined. Such information is critical in helping patients make informed decisions about the pros of LASIK surgery. Updated references help educate patients.
Do Your Research on LASIK Surgery
LASIK is one of the most desired ophthalmic procedures and this demand has made LASIK a commodity from large corporate chains to private practices offering the service. Patients should research potential surgeons with specialized training in a refractive fellowship, and have experience and excellent surgical outcomes, as well as the surgical skill to manage potential complications that can arise. Dr. Iskander has co-authored a book on LASIK complications and is sought after for his expertise in managing complex cases. Patients should look for surgeons that provide extensive diagnostic testing and complete a thorough eye examination and overall health assessment to qualify their candidacy for LASIK and to deliver excellent surgical outcomes based on meticulous measurements from cutting-edge excimer and femtosecond laser technology. Your eyes are precious and require trusting your surgeon.
For LASIK in San Antonio, Trust San Antonio Eye Specialists
At San Antonio Eye Specialists, our board-certified ophthalmologist with more than 25 experience and fellowship-trained refractive surgeon spanning more than 20 years offers a personal, honest assessment and meets all patients prior to any surgical intervention. Feel confident in your choice for LASIK with Dr. Iskander. Contact us online or over the phone to schedule a free consultation for LASIK in San Antonio, TX. For your eyes...Don't compromise!
