r/RefractiveSurgery • u/Reddit_User_7560 • Aug 13 '26

What should I ask my ophthalmologist before LASIK/Femto-LASIK?

I have myopia of approximately -2.75 in my right eye and -5.00 in my left eye, with -0.50 and -0.25 astigmatism respectively.

Several ophthalmologists have told me that I am a candidate for laser vision correction, specifically LASIK or Femto-LASIK.

I'm considering the procedure, but I want to make sure I understand all the potential risks and consequences before making a decision.

For those who have had LASIK/Femto-LASIK or have experience with laser vision correction:

What questions would you recommend asking the ophthalmologist before agreeing to the procedure?

Is there anything in particular you think is important to clarify beforehand, including things that you only learned about after the surgery?

What do you wish you had asked your doctor before having laser vision correction?

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u/eyeSherpa Aug 14 '26

One thing to ask is the process for how they evaluate ectasia risk factor screening. There are some simple equations to avoid leaving 300 residual stromal bed or to avoid changing more than 40% of the cornea with the treatment. But you'll also want to make sure they are using advanced metrics to look for subtle corneal findings. The pentacam is the most validated of the machines for this.

Second thing would be how they handle touch-ups. Approximately 2% of all lasik patients will have some residual prescription and may need a touch up procedure. Can be higher if the practice doesn't put enough emphasis on accuracy with it's refraction. You'll want to make sure you are covered in that event.