Choosing LASIK is a big decision, and at OVO LASIK + LENS, we recognize the weight of this choice. As Minnesota’s premier LASIK center, our world-class expertise is only matched by our commitment to compassionate patient care, all designed to help you to a healthier, clearer, life-changing vision. We understand the mix of excitement and apprehension that comes with a LASIK appointment, so we’ve created a guide on what to expect during your LASIK consultation with us so that you can feel informed, supported, and confident about your path to visual freedom.

It Starts With A 90-minute 1-on-1

On your initial visit to our world-class facility, you’ll undergo a complimentary 90-minute LASIK candidacy examination. This will serve as the foundation for your vision correction journey, allowing our expert surgical team to determine if LASIK surgery is the optimal choice for vision. During this one-on-one session, our nationally recognized doctors will dive into your medical history, noting down any chronic conditions or medications that might influence your eligibility.

Who Is Typically Eligible for LASIK?

An ideal LASIK candidate is typically someone at least 18 years of age, with stable vision for at least 12 months. Here’s what we look at:

• Patients should generally have healthy eyes free from conditions like severe dry eye or keratoconus, glaucoma, or macular degeneration.
• You must have adequate corneal thickness for the flap that is created.
• You’re not pregnant or breastfeeding, as your eyes can change a lot due to hormones during this time which can affect your LASIK outcome.
• You should be free from autoimmune or immunodeficiency diseases such as lupus, rheumatoid arthritis, or Grave’s disease as these can increase the risk of complications.

Note: While there’s no strict upper age limit, we do take into account cataract and presbyopia development for our more mature patients. We will discuss this in-depth at your consultation to ensure you’re fully informed on any trade-offs and if there’s a better-suited procedure for you based on your needs and expectations.

What If I’ve Been Informed LASIK Is Not An Option?

At OVO LASIK + LENS, we’re committed to finding the best vision solution for you, even if you’ve been told elsewhere you’re not a candidate. With Dr. Lobanoff’s in-house Phorcides software and our cutting-edge diagnostic testing that goes far beyond standard eye exams, we’re often able to help patients who previously thought LASIK wasn’t an option. Additionally, Dr. Lobanoff was the first surgeon in Minnesota to implant the EVO ICL, which is an advanced, safe, and proven lens surgery available for both candidates and non-candidates of LASIK.

Diagnostic Testing – What to Expect During Your LASIK Consultation

If you meet the initial criteria, we’ll complete a comprehensive series of diagnostic tests to get a complete assessment of your eye health. Here’s what you can expect during this part of your LASIK consultation:

1. Precision Measurements & Visual Acuity Assessment. We’ll begin by taking detailed measurements of your vision, including a visual acuity test so that we can assess your ability to perceive details at various distances.
2. Prescription Verification. We’ll employ both manual refraction techniques and sophisticated digital eye analyzers to verify your prescription. This helps us determine how much to correct and establishes a baseline for your current vision.
3. High-Resolution Corneal Mapping. Using our Vario Topolyzer, we’ll construct a 3D map of your cornea’s surface. This non-invasive imaging lets us identify even the slightest irregularities or astigmatism.
4. Corneal Thickness Check – Pachymetry. We use ultrasound technology to precisely measure the thickness of your cornea, to make sure there’s enough for the LASIK flap.
5. Dynamic Pupil Test. We’ll check your pupil size in both bright and dim lighting conditions. This allows us to predict how your vision may respond to different environments post-LASIK.
6. Pressure Check. We’ll check the pressure in your eyes – it’s a quick and painless test – to help us screen for conditions like glaucoma and ensure your eyes are healthy.
7. Dry Eye Tests. We’ll evaluate your tear production and quality as dry eye can affect LASIK outcomes and recovery.
8. Dilated Eye Exam. While uncommon, we may dilate your pupils to get a good look at your retina and optic nerve, checking for any underlying eye health issues.

These comprehensive tests allow us to get a complete picture of your eye health and determine your suitability for LASIK eye surgery.

What To Expect During The Final Stages of Your LASIK Consultation

If the evaluation indicates that you’re a good candidate for LASIK, we’ll develop a customized treatment plan and walk you through the process step by step, discussing your vision goals, realistic outcomes, recovery timelines, pre-op instructions, pricing and financing, and any concerns or questions you may have.

Experience The World’s Most Advanced LASIK

At OVO LASIK + LENS, we’re more than just a world-renowned LASIK provider – we’re your committed partner in your quest for the very best vision throughout your lifetime.

Ready to transform your vision? Schedule your free LASIK consultation today and experience the clarity you deserve.