Debunking LASIK Myths
There are numerous myths about laser eye surgery. If you are considering having LASIK , it’s important to separate fact from myth.
Myth: Contact Lenses Are Safer Than LASIK
Truth: This is not the case. A study performed in 2009 by McGee and Mathers found that risk of vision loss with daily-wear contact lenses and LASIK was about the same. While rigid gas permeable contact lenses are considered safer than laser eye surgery, LASIK is actually safer than daily-wear soft contact lenses in situations that are more favorable for LASIK .
Myth: LASIK Increases the Risk of Halos and Glare
Truth: Studies have shown that the risk of halos and glare was reduced with patients three months after laser eye surgery was performed. Another study found that nearly 90 percent of pilots landing aircraft at night found that their night vision was actually better following laser eye surgery without glasses compared to their night vision wearing glasses before having LASIK.
Myth: Dry Eye Is Common After LASIK
Truth: Some people do report mild to moderate dry eye after LASIK . Between 1 and 3 percent of patients reported severe dry eye; however, studies show that patient satisfaction from LASIK is still extremely high, even for those suffering from some form of dry eye.
Myth: LASIK Is Painful
Truth: LASIK is very fast and basically pain-free. Prior to treatment, numbing drops are applied to the patient’s eyes. This helps limit any discomfort the patient might experience. Most patients only experience a slight moment of pressure as the corneal flap is created. In fact, most patients are actually surprised at how fast the surgery is. Patients who feel somewhat anxious prior to the procedure can always ask to receive a mild sedative prior to the surgery.
Myth: LASIK Is Only Appropriate for Nearsighted Patients
Truth: In the beginning, LASIK was only performed on nearsighted patients. Since that time, a lot has changed. Now, LASIK can correct a number of refractive errors, including farsightedness, nearsightedness, and astigmatism.
Myth: Patients Who Have LASIK Can Go Blind
Truth: There are no recorded cases of any patient who has had LASIK going blind following surgery. LASIK actually only treats the eye’s surface layer to reshape the cornea. Complications occur rarely, and any complications that do occur usually subside over time.
Myth: LASIK Is Unaffordable
Truth: Over the years, the cost of LASIK has decreased quite a bit with the improvement of technology. Now that this form of treatment is more common, there are also financing plans available that can make the procedure even more affordable.
Myth: LASIK Effects Only Last for a Few Years
Truth: Most LASIK treatments offer permanent correction for refractive errors. It is only rare that nearsightedness, astigmatism, or farsightedness return after a patient has LASIK performed. Patients who do experience any form of regression may be able to receive an enhancement surgery. It should be understood that patients may still be at risk for experiencing age-associated vision changes. Such changes may include macular degeneration or cataracts.
Myth: There’s a Long Recovery Time with LASIK
Truth: Most patients notice improved vision within about 15 minutes after their procedure is complete. Full LASIK recovery can be expected within 24 hours. There is generally no significant downtime.
Myth: Everyone Is Eligible for LASIK
Truth: As it turns out, not everyone is a good candidate for LASIK . There could be many reasons why you might not be a good candidate for LASIK , including having thin corneas or a medical condition that might interfere with your recovery. Also, while LASIK can correct many refractive errors, some vision problems cannot be corrected with LASIK .
As the eye ages, cataracts develop. This often requires surgery at around age 65. The cataract is completely independent of the benefits of LASIK . Some long-term contact lens wearers are thrilled to find that LASIK technology has improved to the point where having LASIK in your 40s or 50s can give you 5 or 10 years of really good vision before cataracts form. However, this group is split among their opinions on the price. For most contact lens wearers in their 40s or 50s, they believe that purchasing LASIK is a great value compared to the possibility of spending another decade in contact lenses.
For many glasses wearers, they feel the cost of surgery isn’t a good value when cataracts are going to eventually negate the effects of LASIK .
Ultimately, the choice is up to you.
Are you ready to learn more about LASIK, and find out whether you might be a good candidate for the procedure? Our wonderful staff at The Eye Care Institute, would love to help answer any questions you may have.
We’re delighted to offer free LASIK consultations to anyone who wishes to learn more.
Feel free to either click here to call us, or fill out this contact form.