Ask Your Eye Surgeon These 10 Questions
Eye surgeons, like Dr. Jack Abrams, are sure to offer you a complete picture of all of your options and variables when you approach eye surgery. However, Dr. Abrams and his team recommend that patients be properly prepared for consultations by having a list of questions ready. The list of questions are topics that will be covered, and if you’re prepared to ask them, you’re certain to leave the consultation feeling fully informed.
If you’re interested in LASIK Laser Surgery, Laser Cataract Surgery, or any other procedure, be ready to ask these questions or have your eye surgeon and their team go over these details.
What sort of technology will be used for the procedure? – Advances in medical technology have been especially rapid for eye surgery. Procedures done with state-of-the art technology can ensure better results. You’ll want to know what kind of technology will be used on your behalf? You’ll also want to ask the following questions: How old is the technology? How many procedures has the surgeon done using the technology and technique? Make sure you have a skilled and experience surgeon, like Dr. Abrams, on your side.
What’s your surgeon and team’s background/experience? – Ask your surgeon about their background including how long they’ve been doing the procedure you’re about to have, how long their staff has been working with the surgeon, and what other kinds of experience they have to make sure your surgery is a success.
Can insurance cover this procedure? – Some procedures are eligible for insurance coverage, and others are not. The only way to find out is to ask your surgeon and his star. After your eye surgeon and his staff present you with options for insurance, you may want to call your insurer and make sure of your coverage terms.
Is this procedure necessary now? – Some surgeries are necessary immediately, and others may allow you to have the surgery done at a later date. This can be important for factors ranging from finance to timing for simpler things like taking time off of work and arranging for a ride home after the procedure.
Can I do both eyes or just one? – For some surgeries, it’s most advisable to have one eye done now and the other eye done later. Your eye surgeon is certain to offer the best course of treatment in this regard, but it’s best to make sure to double-check.
What’s the post-operative schedule like for me? – Make sure to ask about timelines for recovery and follow up visits. You’ll need to make sure you take proper precautions to give yourself the best chance at the most complete recovery.
Are there any other options? – Surgery may be your only options, but there could be alternatives, perhaps with technology or treatment. Make sure you know what your full sets of options are, before having eye surgery.
What are possible complications? – There may be redness, soreness or other post-op experiences that are totally normal. There could, though, be complications that tell you that something could be in need of follow up. For your procedure, know what these possibilities are, as well as what your eye surgeon recommends for you to do if they do occur.
Will I need surgery again later? – For some procedures, you may need to have more surgery later. Make sure you ask about these possibilities to adequately prepare for the future. With that, there can be the need for follow up surgery for procedures that weren’t done correctly. If you’re seeing an eye surgeon to correct a past mistake, ask about what care you need to take to give yourself the best chance at recovery.
How can you better educate yourself about the surgery? – Your eye surgeon and his team will have resources for you to learn more about the surgery you’re about to have, including printed materials, pages on their website and other resources to make you fully informed. This is important as it relates to other questions above. The more you know, the better off you’ll be.
Any questions I’ve missed? – With a comprehensive list such as this one, you should be fully informed. However, you never know if something new has developed with treatment and technology with your eye surgery, or if other patients ask some other question you’ve missed. It’s always best to wrap up your appointment with this question so all bases are covered.
The team at Abrams Eye Institute, led by Dr. Jack Abrams, is always available to answer any questions you may have. You can contact one of our eye centers or send us a question online. We are dedicated to your eyes and their health, and we’re very glad to help.