Most people know of at least one family member or acquaintance who has undergone Lasik surgery. They're the eager people telling everyone they come in contact with that the procedure is fantastic and everyone should do it.

The procedure is cutting edge and can make it possible to use glasses or contacts less often. It also carries serious risks, including blindness. Some people are not candidates for the procedure.

I have a specific career in mind that requires 20/20 corrected vision. I already wore contacts and have glasses, so I thought "No Problem!" Then came the positions that also stipulate a minimum of 20/40 vision, UNCORRECTED. I had 20/400 vision in both eyes. My prescription was -3.75 in both eyes. You can imagine the distress and instant panic that hit me when I discovered that requirement. I had always considered getting LASIK, but never really took the steps to look into it. Because of the vision requirements, I had to have it done.

There are two basic types of laser eye surgery, PRK (PhotoRefractive Keratectomy) and LASIK (Laser-Assisted In Situ Keratomileusis). There are different varieties of each of the surgeries based on different surgical techniques. Both surgeries correct vision problems through surgical manipulation of the cornea. A certified eye doctor can help you choose which surgery is right for you.

LASIK eye surgery is a permanent procedure which greatly reduces a patient's need for eyeglasses and contact lenses. LASIK surgeons use modern laser techniques which make the surgery relatively quick and painless. Patients are often back to their normal routines the next day. Almost anyone can be a candidate for LASIK, although it is always recommended to get the opinion of an eye doctor before making any decisions regarding surgery.