Do you have normal vision? Anyone with 20/20 vision without requiring corrective eye surgery, glasses, or contact lenses is in the minority.
While everyone wants normal vision, not everyone wants to wear glasses or fumble with contact lenses day in and day out. If either or both scenarios ring true for you, corrective eye surgery is an option. A popular choice is LASIK, the acronym for Laser-Assisted In Situ Keratomileusis.
The vast majority of LASIK patients are satisfied after the procedure. Even so, there are still some myths floating around about the surgery that might cloud your decision-making process.
Here are five common myths about LASIK surgery you should know so that misconceptions don’t blur your vision and prevent you from getting a potentially life-changing procedure.
Myth #1: LASIK is Uncomfortable
One unfortunate myth you might have heard before is that LASIK is an uncomfortable procedure.
People who think this might be hesitant to get vision correction surgery that could help them ditch glasses and contacts — if they want to — and be free of vision aids.
The reality is that LASIK is virtually painless. When you get the procedure done by a reputable surgeon, the medical professional will administer numbing eye drops; the most you’ll likely feel is a bit of pressure. It’s also worth noting that the small amount of pressure will only last for seconds rather than minutes or longer.
Myth #2: The Results Post-LASIK Are Fleeting
Another myth you might have been told is that the results after the surgical procedure are fleeting and won’t last permanently. The reality is that most patients enjoy permanent results.
They likely won’t have to return to their eyeglasses or contact lenses after getting LASIK.
Some people do experience vision changes as they get older, which might necessitate glasses down the road. But that’s not a shortcoming of LASIK. It’s the result of age-related vision changes.
Myth #3: LASIK is Just for Younger Demographics
That’s one myth you can safely kick to the curb because it’s a procedure good for people of all ages. As long as patients’ eyes are relatively healthy and they have stable prescriptions, they are likely candidates for LASIK. If in doubt, consult an optometrist to find out for certain if you’re a good candidate.
Myth #4: LASIK Isn’t Worth the Cost
Another myth to get out of your head is the idea that the expense isn’t worth it. Whether paying several thousand dollars for the procedure is worth it to you is a personal matter. But the potential benefits of improving your vision and ditching glasses and contacts are, to many people who’ve opted to get the surgical procedure, well worth it. That’s especially true if they’re not fans of glasses or contact lenses.
Also consider that the benefits are considered permanent, so you can enjoy improved vision indefinitely. While some people are okay with wearing glasses and contacts, others find them inconvenient. LASIK is a way to get over your dependence on glasses and contacts.
Myth #5: You Must Avoid Screens for Weeks Post-LASIK Surgery
Yet another myth is that you’ll have to stay clear of screens — your phone, tablet, or TV — for several weeks after getting the LASIK procedure. Most patients can get back to screens within a couple of days.
But it’s best to follow whatever recommendations you get from the surgeon who performs the procedure.
If you are considering LASIK surgery, you need accurate information to make informed decisions. Booking a consultation with a surgeon providing LASIK surgery is the best first step toward making an informed decision.
