LASIK Eye Surgery: Myths and Misconceptions Debunked

Vision problems are extremely common, and many of us have to wear glasses or contact lenses constantly just to be able to function. After years of this routine, the idea of simply being able to see clearly without help can start to feel like a fantasy. However, thanks to the evolution of LASIK eye surgery, perfect vision is more attainable than it’s ever been. Unfortunately, there are many myths and misconceptions about the procedure that tend to dissuade people from giving it a chance. Here, we’ll debunk a few of the most common falsehoods about this life-changing surgery.

Myth #1: LASIK Is Painful

Many people considering LASIK eye surgery are concerned that the procedure will be painful, and in reality, that simply isn’t the case. Before your surgery begins, your eyes will be treated with numbing drops, which will prevent any pain during the procedure. There may be some discomfort for a few hours after the surgery, but it should be completely tolerable.

Myth #2: You’re Too Old for LASIK

Another common myth about LASIK is that you can only undergo the surgery when you’re young. Although it’s recommended that patients undergoing LASIK eye surgery should be at least 18 years old, there’s no maximum age for the procedure. In fact, people in their 50s and 60s frequently have LASIK done. However, it is true that as you get older, you may be more likely to develop conditions that could prevent you from undergoing LASIK, such as cataracts and glaucoma.

Myth #3: LASIK Can Cause Blindness

Clearly, the idea of being accidentally blinded during surgery is a terrifying thought. However, there’s no need to worry about this type of complication from LASIK eye surgery. In very rare cases, LASIK can cause serious complications, but there has never been a documented case of the procedure causing permanent blindness.

Myth #4: LASIK Is Unaffordable for Most People

Many people with poor vision don’t even bother to consider LASIK because they assume that they can’t afford the procedure. Although the fees for LASIK have increased over the years due to growing sophistication of technology, many studies have shown that the cost of LASIK is still less than the cost of glasses and contacts over the years. There are also affordable financing plans available to you.

Myth #5: LASIK Is Only for Nearsightedness

This is another myth about LASIK that used to be true but is no longer the case. These days, LASIK eye surgery can not only correct nearsightedness, but it can also correct farsightedness, astigmatism, and other refractive errors.

Myth #6: The Side Effects of LASIK Are Still a Mystery

For obvious reasons, it would be a bit scary to undergo a procedure without knowing about the potential side effects. When it comes to LASIK, there’s a common myth that the long-term side effects of the surgery are still unknown. In truth, LASIK eye surgery has been commonly performed for over 25 years, and in that time, no serious long-term side effects have been documented. As for short-term side effects, they tend to be very minor, and serious complications are exceedingly rare.

What Is the Takeaway?

Despite what you may have heard about LASIK eye surgery, it’s a safe, painless procedure that can provide life-changing results. If you’d like to start seeing clearly and are interested in LASIK, consider contacting us at Pacific Vision Institute to schedule a consultation with one of our skilled ophthalmologists.