How to Coordinate US Follow-Up Care After LASIK Abroad

Why You Need a US Eye Doctor

Even with excellent care in Colombia, you'll need follow-up appointments at home. Standard post-LASIK care includes:

• 1 month post-op exam
• 3 month post-op exam
• 6 month post-op exam
• 12 month post-op exam
• Annual eye exams thereafter

Plus, if any issues arise after you return home, you'll want an established relationship with someone who can help.

Step 1: Find a Provider Before You Travel

Set this up 2-4 weeks before your trip. You have two options:

Option A: Ophthalmologist

An MD eye surgeon who can handle any complications that might arise. Ideal if you want maximum coverage, though typically more expensive per visit.

Option B: Optometrist

A doctor of optometry (OD) who can perform standard follow-up exams and prescribe drops. Less expensive, and most post-LASIK care is routine. They can refer to an ophthalmologist if complications arise.

What to Say When You Call

Be upfront about your plans:

"I'm planning to have LASIK surgery in Colombia and I'm looking for a provider who can do my follow-up care when I return. Would your practice be willing to see me for post-operative appointments?"

Most eye doctors will say yes. This is routine care, and your money is as good as anyone's. Some may have questions; be prepared to explain that you've chosen an accredited clinic with a qualified surgeon.

Step 2: Establish the Relationship

Before your trip, schedule an initial appointment with your US provider. This accomplishes several things:

• Creates your medical record in their system
• Documents your baseline eye health
• Gives them your prescription history
• Establishes you as a patient (not a new patient fee at follow-up)

This pre-trip appointment also gives you a US-based evaluation to compare against the Colombian surgeon's findings.

Step 3: Get Complete Records from Colombia

Before leaving Colombia, ensure you receive:

Request records in English — reputable Colombian clinics serving international patients provide documentation in English routinely.

Step 4: Schedule Your First US Follow-Up

Schedule your 1-month post-op appointment before you leave for Colombia. This ensures you have something on the calendar and don't forget in the excitement of having clear vision.

What to bring to your first US follow-up:

• All documentation from Colombia
• List of all eye drops used
• Any concerns or symptoms you've noticed
• Colombian surgeon's contact info (in case the US doctor has questions)

What If Something Goes Wrong?

First, don't panic. Serious complications are rare (<1%), and most issues that arise after returning home are manageable:

• Dry eye: Very common. Your US doctor can prescribe Restasis, Xiidra, or other treatments.
• Infection: Extremely rare. If caught early, responds well to antibiotic drops.
• Under/over correction: May require enhancement surgery. Your Colombian clinic should have a policy for this.

Your Colombian clinic should provide:

• 24/7 emergency contact number
• Telemedicine consultation availability
• Clear policy on enhancement procedures

Cost of US Follow-Up Care

Budget for these approximate costs:

• Post-op visits (per visit): $75-$200
• Additional testing if needed: $50-$150
• Prescription drops if needed: Varies (some are expensive without insurance)

Even with follow-up costs factored in, you'll still save thousands compared to US LASIK prices.