Not sure if LASIK is right for you? Read why most people choose LASIK for vision correction.
For many people who dislike wearing glasses or contact lenses, refractive vision corrections, also known as laser eye surgery, is the most sought after solution.
The most frequently performed option is simply referred to as LASIK.
Below are some of the benefits of LASIK. Your eye doctor will discuss more with you and determine if you are a viable candidate.
1. The majority of LASIK procedures achieve permanent vision correction
LASIK works by reshaping the cornea, the clear outer layer at the front of the eye, to correct any refractive errors affecting your vision clarity.
The effects of LASIK are generally permanent— allowing you to enjoy the freedom of no longer needing glasses or contact lenses.
In some cases, a follow-up procedure may be necessary if the shape of your cornea changes, or if your myopia, hyperopia or presbyopia begins to worsen post-surgery.
2. LASIK has become more affordable
Thanks to advancements in technology, the cost of LASIK surgery has decreased dramatically over the past few years.
Don’t allow the cost of the procedure to deter you from discussing LASIK with your eye doctor. Keep in mind, LASIK can also save you money, as you can put the cost of glasses and contact lenses back in your pocket.
Mover, many vision insurance policies will cover a percentage of this procedure, and financing options are also available to help you handle the expense of the treatment.
SEE RELATED: Contact Lenses or Laser Eye Surgery?
Contact your nearest eye doctor to learn more about LASIK and whether it’s the right choice for you.
3. LASIK is a relatively quick and painless procedure
LASIK is performed as an outpatient procedure, and you will likely head home around two hours later.
If you are feeling a bit nervous, you can request a mild sedative to help calm your nerves— but rest assured, prior to the procedure, your surgeon will insert numbing eye drops to ensure that you don’t feel any discomfort.
You may experience slight pressure when the corneal flap is created, but you shouldn’t feel any pain.
4. Recovery usually takes a few days
Improved vision clarity is generally noticed immediately following the procedure, with complete recovery and stable clear vision, occurring within a few days.
Most eye doctors recommend that you take a few days off from work to allow your eyes to completely heal following your procedure.
5. LASIK can now correct all types of refractive errors
When LASIK was first introduced, it was only effective for correcting myopia.
Nowadays, LASIK is an effective treatment for all types of refractive errors.
Although LASIK cannot get to the root cause of presbyopia, as it is a naturally occurring condition that develops with age, alternative treatments such as monovision, blended vision and multifocal LASIK procedures can improve vision clarity for people with presbyopia.
Note: While many people benefit from LASIK, not everyone is a candidate. Speak with your eye doctor to determine if LASIK is a good option for you.
Certain factors may prevent you from being a good candidate for LASIK, such as:
- Under the age of 18
- Irregular or thin corneas
- Diabetes
- Other eye issues, such as lazy eye
LEARN MORE: Guide to Laser Refractive Surgery
Contact your nearest eye doctor to learn more about LASIK and whether it’s the right choice for you.
Here are 5 benefits of LASIK surgery.
Speak to your eye doctor to determine if you too can benefit from LASIK surgery and enjoy the freedom of no longer needing glasses or contact lenses.
