People decide to get LASIK for many reasons. Whether it be to never have to search for glasses again or to never have to put contacts in every morning, most simply want to enjoy life with clear vision. However, for some, the idea of surgery on your eye and while you’re awake is scary – and for others, the average price of $2,000 per eye without the help of insurance can push people away. To help, we’ve compiled a list of pros and cons to LASIK.
No matter the concern, the experts at Phoenix Eye Center will help you weigh both the risks and benefits.
PROS TO LASIK
It’s quick and safe
The procedure itself takes about 20 minutes, and most of that time is spent on setting up for surgery. Laser Vision Correction with LASIK uses the precision of a computerized Excimer Laser Delivery System to customize change in the corneal’s curvature to bring light into proper focus.
In addition, patients who remain awake may be given a Valium or something similar to calm their nerves. The laser is also designed to shut off you make any sudden eye movements that could result in error or injury.
Quick recovery
After the surgery, healing time takes about 4-5 hours. It’s very common to feel uncomfortable during that time, similar to how sandiness feels under the eyelid. By the next day, it’s expected for the patient to see quite well. However, fluctuations in vision are expected over the next 3-4 months.
Your vision will be greatly improved
While you won’t get superhuman sight, more than 90% of people who have LASIK achieve 20/20 vision, meaning, they will be able to see from 20 feet away what a person with normal vision should be able to see at that distance, without the help of glasses or contact lenses.
Additionally, more than 99% of people end up with 20/40 or better vision, which is clear enough to pass a driver’s license exam.
CONS TO LASIK
Risks are possible
In addition to dry eyes which can be managed with eye drops, while rare, there is a risk of nighttime glare or halos after surgery. Subconjunctival hemorrhages are also a possibility post-op, but don’t let the name freak you out. They are solely a cosmetic consequence of the suction rings used to keep the eye steady during the procedure.
Small, red bruises can appear on the white of your eyes and tend to last anywhere from one week to a month. Although they may look alarming, they are cosmetic and do not hurt or affect the vision. They are temporary, and your body will naturally clear the spots within a few weeks.
Not everyone is eligible
Generally, you must be at least 18 years of age with a stable prescription for at least a year to have the LASIK procedure. In later years, there’s no age limit. However, depending on your overall health and eye health, the procedure may no longer be effective.
There’s a slight chance you may need LASIK again
Those with a higher prescription have a higher chance of seeing a minor decrease in their vision over time. Never to the same degree, however. A second LASIK surgery has different and increased risks.
Pros and Cons to LASIK
It’s important to note that everyone responds to procedures differently. The best way to get accurate information about your LASIK experience is to meet with your experienced, trusted LASIK provider.
