LASIK is a popular laser eye surgery that has enabled millions to see clearly without glasses or contact lenses. However, the many myths surrounding it can hold some patients back from getting the procedure.
Separating myths from facts can help ease lingering fears and empower you to move forward with exploring vision correction options. Keep reading to learn more about five debunked myths about LASIK surgery.
Myth #1: LASIK is Painful
Fact: LASIK is virtually painless. Before you undergo the procedure, your surgeon will administer anesthetic drops to numb your eyes so you won’t feel pain.
The only sensation you may experience for a few seconds is slight pressure, like someone is pressing on your eyelids, as the LASIK surgeon places a suction ring on your eye.
The suction ring will hold your eye still during the surgery. If you’re nervous, your LASIK surgeon can give you a mild sedative to help you relax.
Myth #2: LASIK Results are Not Permanent
Fact: The effects of LASIK don’t wear off over time. They last a lifetime.
LASIK involves reshaping your cornea to correct refractive errors, including astigmatism, nearsightedness, and farsightedness. The changes made to your cornea are permanent and irreversible.
After LASIK, you can look forward to enjoying your brand-new, improved vision for years to come. But like the rest of your body, your eyes undergo age-related changes as you grow older, which can lead to the development of presbyopia and cataracts.
These age-related eye conditions can impact the clarity of your vision over time. It’s important to keep in mind that LASIK doesn’t cause or prevent cataracts, presbyopia, or other age-related eye conditions.
Myth #3: Anyone Can Get LASIK
Fact: LASIK isn’t suitable for everyone. To ensure the effectiveness and safety of the procedure, you have to meet certain criteria, including:
- Being at least 18 years old
- Having corneas with sufficient thickness
- Being in good overall health
- Having a refractive error that falls within the LASIK-treatable range
- A prescription that has remained stable in the last year
- Having good overall eye health, free from severe dry eye, keratoconus, cataracts, or advanced glaucoma
- Not having conditions like uncontrolled diabetes and autoimmune disorders
- Not being pregnant or nursing
You’ll need to undergo a detailed evaluation to know for sure if you qualify for LASIK. During the assessment, your LASIK surgeon at Stahl Eyecare Experts will perform a series of tests to determine if you’re a good candidate.
If you’re not, they can recommend other equally effective vision correction procedures that can help you achieve your visual goals.
Myth #4: LASIK Has a Lengthy Recovery
Fact: LASIK has very little downtime. While recovery time varies from patient to patient, most patients can return to their routines within 24 to 48 hours.
However, it may take a week or longer to resume more strenuous activities. Following your LASIK surgeon’s post-operative care instructions can ensure a smooth and quick recovery.
Myth #5: LASIK is a Risky Procedure
Fact: LASIK is a safe, FDA-approved procedure for vision correction surgery. While no surgical procedure is completely risk-free, serious complications are quite rare.
The lasers used for LASIK at Stahl Eyecare Experts, including the state-of-the-art VISX Star S4 excimer laser, are remarkably precise, decreasing possible risks. Choosing an experienced LASIK surgeon also significantly reduces the likelihood of any complications.
The Refractive Surgery Council emphasizes that high-pressure sales tactics, rushed evaluations, and a lack of personalized discussion are red flags to look out for when searching for your LASIK surgeon. At Stahl Eyecare Experts, our expert surgeons perform thorough assessments to ensure you are a good candidate and take the time to treat each patient with compassion and personalized care.
Don’t let the myths stop you from achieving your visual goals. LASIK is a highly effective, safe, and long-lasting eye surgery for the right patients, and can give you complete freedom from glasses and contact lenses.
Are you interested in LASIK? Schedule your appointment at Stahl Eyecare Experts in Manhattan, NY, today to find out if it’s right for your eyes.
