If you have diabetes, you understand how difficult it can be to keep track of all the variables. Nearly every aspect of your life contributes to keeping your blood sugar under control. Failure to do so can endanger organs such as your heart, kidneys, and nerves. High blood sugar levels can also impair your vision. That’s why when it comes to managing your diabetes, you should be aware of how diabetes affects your vision and your risk of diabetic eye diseases such as diabetic retinopathy and glaucoma. You should also ensure that you have annual comprehensive eye exams with your ophthalmologist to stay on top of your overall eye health.
A general overview of the correlation between diabetes and eyesight from our Los Angeles LASIK experts.
As you already know, diabetes impairs your body’s ability to use or produce insulin effectively in order to control blood sugar (glucose) levels. High blood sugar levels can harm several different parts of your body, and this includes the heart, kidneys, and blood vessels.
Along with these vital organs, high blood sugar levels can harm your eyes in a variety of ways. This can result in damage to the tiny blood vessels in your eyes as well as fluid accumulation on the retina. If left undiagnosed or untreated, you may suffer irreversible vision damage or even blindness.
Fortunately for diabetics, 9 out of 10 percent of vision loss caused by diabetes can be avoided if detected early. The issue is that 2 out of 3 diabetics do not have regular eye exams. If you want to avoid diabetes-related blindness, early detection is critical. However, you must ensure that you receive the proper type of exam or you risk developing diabetic eye disease.
Do I qualify for Los Angeles LASIK if I have type 1 or type 2 diabetes?
There is no straightforward answer to this question. You will need to come in for a consultation appointment to not only evaluate the quality of your current eyesight, but also your blood pressure, and answer questions about medications you are taking as well as any other significant health conditions you are experiencing. Unfortunately, if your diabetes has truly affected your eyesight, you may not qualify for LASIK. It is critical that you are 100% honest with the Los Angeles LASIK surgeon, otherwise, you will put yourself at great medical risk. Luckily for you, consultation appointments at Excel Eye are completely free of charge.
Key Considerations for Diabetic Patients Considering LASIK:
1. Stability of Vision:
Diabetic patients need to have a stable prescription for at least a year prior to LASIK surgery. Fluctuations in blood glucose levels can lead to changes in vision, so stability is crucial for accurate corneal reshaping.
2. Control of Diabetes:
Good control of diabetes is vital. Patients considering LASIK should have well-documented control of their blood sugar levels, as confirmed by their primary care physician or endocrinologist. This stability reduces the risk of postoperative complications and improves healing.
3. Thorough Ocular Examination:
At Excel Laser Vision Institute, Doctor Ferzaad Moosa conducts comprehensive ocular health assessments to identify any diabetes-related complications, such as diabetic retinopathy or macular edema, which could impact the safety or outcome of LASIK surgery.
4. Risk of Complications:
Diabetic patients are at a higher risk of infections and slower healing after any surgical procedure, including LASIK. Detailed discussions with Doctor Moosa regarding the risks and benefits will help ensure that every patient makes an educated decision.
5. Post-Surgery Considerations:
Following LASIK, diabetic patients require close monitoring to manage any complications promptly. Doctor Moosa and the team at Excel Laser Vision Institute provide tailored post-operative care plans to address the specific needs of diabetic patients, ensuring optimal recovery and results.
The Role of Advanced Technology at Excel Laser Vision Institute
Utilizing state-of-the-art technology, such as the VisuMax® laser and the WaveLight EX500 Excimer Laser, Doctor Moosa ensures precise and customized vision correction tailored to the unique needs of diabetic patients. These advanced technologies help minimize the risk and maximize the effectiveness of LASIK for patients with complex health backgrounds.
Want to find out if you’re a candidate for Los Angeles LASIK? Schedule a free consultation appointment today!
For diabetic patients in Los Angeles considering LASIK surgery, consulting with a knowledgeable and experienced LASIK surgeon like Doctor Ferzaad Moosa is crucial. At Excel Laser Vision Institute, we prioritize patient safety and personalized care, ensuring that all aspects of your health are considered before proceeding with surgery. If you’re managing diabetes and contemplating LASIK, let us guide you through your options for achieving clearer vision safely and effectively.
