Common LASIK Surgery Myths Explained
Though LASIK surgery has been around for years and has earned a reputation for being a safe, effective way to address an array of common vision problems, there are still many misconceptions circulating about this procedure.
If you’ve been on the fence about getting LASIK surgery because you’re worried it’s too risky, too expensive, or that you aren’t a good candidate, we want you to know the truth.
Keep reading as we debunk seven common LASIK myths.
1. I’m Too Old for LASIK
There is no upper age limit for LASIK. Many of our patients are in their 40s, 50s, and beyond. In addition to our advanced bladeless LASIK treatments, we also offer procedures to help patients experiencing presbyopia, an age-related vision change. Lifestyle LASIK can treat age-related vision changes like presbyopia and are an excellent option for our older patients.
2. LASIK Recovery Takes a Long Time
Resume your normal daily activities quickly with better vision. Most of our LASIK patients only miss a few days of work. Downtime is very minimal after bladeless LASIK performed by a skilled provider.
3. LASIK Is Painful
LASIK is a quick and practically pain-free procedure for most patients. We use numbing drops before treatment to minimize any discomfort. You may feel a little pressure, but shouldn’t experience much pain, if any.
Immediately after your procedure, we encourage our patients to take a nap. Sleep will help you avoid most post-treatment discomfort. Many patients report little to no pain during and after their LASIK surgery.
4. LASIK Doesn’t Last Forever
LASIK can change your vision for a lifetime. Most of our patients will permanently enjoy an improvement in their eyesight.
After surgery, your vision may change as you get older. For example, presbyopia is a hardening of the lens that occurs with age and is the main reason people need reading glasses. Age-related vision changes will occur whether you have LASIK surgery or not. Presbyopia won’t change your LASIK results, but you may need reading glasses or a corneal inlay to restore your vision when it does occur.
5. I Can’t Afford LASIK
The cost of LASIK has steadily decreased over the years as technology continues to improve, making the procedure more common. If you have vision insurance, your provider might be able to offset some of the costs of your surgery. Financing plans can also help put LASIK within the financial reach of more people.
6. LASIK Can Lead to Blindness
Surgeons have been performing LASIK surgery for decades with excellent results, high levels of patient safety, and few serious complications. We have never had a patient experience blindness using our advanced techniques and state-of-the-art lasers.
7. I’m Not a Good Candidate for LASIK
Has another doctor told you you’re not a good candidate for LASIK? It may be a LASIK myth. At Will Vision and Laser Centers, we use the most advanced LASIK technology in the Pacific Northwest. As such, we can successfully perform LASIK on many patients who have been told they aren’t good candidates at other practices. If you’re interested in LASIK, we want to see you, even if you have some reason to believe you’re not a good candidate.
Will Vision and Laser Centers is a top provider of LASIK in the Pacific Northwest. Call us at (877) 542-3937 for a consultation.