Debunking 8 LASIK Myths
There are a lot of myths surrounding LASIK surgery. In this blog post, we debunk some of the most common ones, so you can have a better understanding if LASIK is something you should pursue to improve your vision.
Myth #1: It’s painful.
Fact: Experiencing LASIK pain during surgery is very uncommon. [1] You may, however, be more likely to experience some mild discomfort–even after your LASIK doctor applies anesthetic eye drops. After surgery, it’s recommended that you take a nap immediately. Make it a long nap–we’re talking for at least four hours (if you sleep longer, then all the better). The anesthetic eye drops the doctor applies to your eyes will wear off over time. If you go right to sleep after surgery, you should experience no pain since your eyes will be healing when you’re asleep. However, if you’re awake when the drops wear off, you may experience a burning sensation. So, make sure to take that nap–doctor’s orders!
Myth #2: It’s risky.
Studies show that LASIK’s long-term risks and complications are incredibly low. [2] For instance, in one study of over 27,000 LASIK patients, less than 1% experienced any complications from the surgery. [3]. In fact, vision problems may be more likely to occur with contact lenses than with LASIK. Case in point: A study of nearly 32,000 LASIK procedures found that it was related to vision loss in .01% of patients. And, while still unlikely, vision loss due to infections related to contact lenses proved to be a greater risk than LASIK. [4]
Myth #3: It’s too expensive.
“Expensive” is a relative term. When was the last time you added up how much you have spent on your glasses and contacts over the years? If you have been wearing glasses and contacts for over 10 years, then there’s a good chance that you’ve spent more on that than what LASIK Costs! Many patients find that getting LASIK is actually the cheaper option over time compared to what they’re doing right now. LASIK can save the average patient thousands of dollars over their lifetime by cutting out the costs of continually buying contact lenses or replacing their glasses. It may take some time, but the cost of LASIK often eventually pays for itself, and then some.
Myth #4: It wears off quickly.
LASIK lasts. While it can’t stop time from taking its toll on your eyes, most people who get LASIK only undergo the procedure once, while still achieving clear vision. [5] One study suggests that patients who undergo LASIK can experience positive vision effects for at least 20 years after their surgery. [6]
Myth #5: It’s only available in big cities.
LASIK is available in most parts of the US. If you did an online search for “LASIK eye surgery near me,” chances are you’d find a LASIK eye center or LASIK doctor within a few hours’ drive of where you live. You can find a LASIK doctor near you on LASIK Doctor Network today. Search all of our partner locations here: https://lasikdoctornetwork.com/search/.
Myth #6: All LASIK providers are the same.
Not so! When you choose a LASIK doctor, we recommend going with someone near you, so you are more likely to have access to the same doctor if needed during follow-up appointments. At LASIK Doctor Network, we understand how important this is. Using our network, you have the option to choose a local independent LASIK surgeon for your surgery.
Here’s why choosing a local LASIK doctor matters: Even after your surgery, you may still need access to a doctor who can help ensure your vision remains clear. This means follow-up appointments and continual treatment plans. By choosing a local doctor for your LASIK surgery, you are able to come back to the same team for your continual treatment.
Myth #7: It often doesn’t work.
Some studies show LASIK’s success rate is as high as 96%. [7] And the positive impacts of LASIK are often felt within a day. In fact, many patients report having 20/20 vision within 24 hours of the procedure. [8]
Myth #8: Anyone can get LASIK.
Not everyone is the perfect fit for LASIK, and sometimes, alternative procedures are a better fit. That’s why it’s important to select a local surgeon from the LASIK Doctor Network. Unlike large corporate providers focused solely on LASIK, our network of trusted surgeons offers multiple options for your eyecare needs. This means you won’t feel pressured into choosing a single solution, and you can maintain consistent care tailored to your individual needs.
One final note
When considering LASIK, it’s important to distinguish fiction from reality. We hope this information has been useful on your journey to clear vision! Please keep in mind that this blog post is not meant to constitute medical advice, so be sure to speak directly with a healthcare professional with any medically related questions.
If you would like to find a LASIK Doctor Network LASIK practice near you, then click here:
Sources
- “What should I expect before, during, and after surgery?” U.S. Food & Drug Administration. https://www.fda.gov/medical-devices/lasik/what-should-i-expect-during-and-after-surgery
- Catro-Luna, G et al. Long Term Follow-Up Safety and Effectiveness of Myopia Refractive Surgery. International Journal of Environmental Research and Public Health. Dec 2020.
- Chua, D et al. Eighteen-year prospective audit of LASIK outcomes for myopia in 53 731 eyes. British Journal of Ophthalmology. Oct 24, 2018.
- “LASIK vs. Contact Lenses.” Oregon Health & Science University. https://www.ohsu.edu/casey-eye-institute/lasik-vs-contact-lenses
- Ide, T et al. Outcome of a 10-year follow-up of laser in situ laser keratomileusis for myopia and myopic astigmatism. Taiwan Journal of Ophthalmology. Dec 2014.
- Hickenbotham, A et al. Long Term Safety Results of LASIK Refractive Surgery: A Twenty-Year Retrospective Study. Research Square. Sep 30, 2022.
- “What is the LASIK Success Rate?” American Refractive Surgery Council. Aug 16, 2022. https://americanrefractivesurgerycouncil.org/laser-eye-surgery-lasik-success-rate/
- Joffe, S. The 25th Anniversary of Laser Vision Correction in the United States. Clinical Ophthalmology. Mar 17, 2021.
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