With over 25 years in the field of Ophthalmology, Dr. Malik’s experience as a leader in the field of cataract surgery is on display in an interactive Q&A session with questions from our friends on social media! Have a look at the curiosities of our community and the answers directly from Dr. Malik!
Q: How difficult is it to become an ophthalmologist and how long does it take?”
A: Ophthalmology is one of the more challenging Residencies to get, but with persistent hard work everything is achievable. In order for one to become an Ophthalmologist you must finish 4 years of College or University, then finish 4 years of Medical School, and then finally finish 4 years of Ophthalmology Residency program.
Q: How does it feel to be the best doctor in the world?
A: It is certainly an honor to be considered in this category, and the expectations are high to continue to work hard and to be on the cutting edge of technology. I wish to continue focusing on getting the best results for all of my patients.
Q: If a person cannot undergo the LASIK procedure, is there any procedure for that person to get rid of eyeglasses? If yes which one?
A: If a person is unable to undergo Lasik for a variety of reasons, there are certainly other alternative procedures to consider. PRK (Photo refractive Keratectomy) is a great procedure which can give equivalent results as Lasik. If a person is not a good candidate for either one of these procedures then you can always consider Lens Extraction with a Multifocal Intraocular Lens implant which can give you excellent vision for both far and near.
Q: What should I do to stop my vision from getting worse?
A: In most instances there is a natural progression for certain eye conditions such a Myopia and or Hyperopia. Typically this progression stabilizes once you reach the age of your early 20’s. In addition once a person reaches their mid 40’s Presbyopia starts setting in and most individuals will require reading glasses in order to see up close. In order to maintain good eye health it is important to have yearly checkups with your Ophthalmologist because there are many ocular conditions that can go undetected. Eating a healthy balanced diet is critical for all your organs including your eyes. Wearing sunglasses is critical to prevent the harmful U/V rays from damaging your eyes.
Q: Is LASIK surgery painful or is there the risk of losing vision in the eye?
A: Generally speaking Lasik Surgery is NOT painful. There may be some gritty sensation as well as sensitivity to light for the first few days after the procedure.
Q: Should I have an eye exam once or twice a year if I have diabetes?
A: All diabetics should be checked by an Ophthalmologist at least once a year. If there are certain changes related to diabetes such as bleeding within the Retina then they should be followed more frequently.
Q: If my eyesight is weak is there any other solution besides surgery or glasses? Maybe not to be 100% again but to at least improve.
A: If your eyesight is weak due to Myopia, Hyperopia or Astigmatism then Glasses or surgery are typically the common solutions but you can always consider Contact lenses.
Q: I have astigmatism, does that limit my options for LASIK?
A: Lasik or PRK are excellent options to correct Astigmatism. If your astigmatism is more than 4 Diopters we can also consider special Toric Implants to correct the astigmatism.