03/11/2023
Common LASIK Myths and Fears Debunked
LASIK, or Laser-Assisted in Situ Keratomileusis, is a common procedure that reshapes the cornea to correct vision. Refractive errors such as myopia (nearsightedness), hyperopia (farsightedness), and astigmatism (misshapen cornea) can be treated with LASIK.
The entire procedure takes less than 30 minutes. Often preparation for surgery and the consultation with the surgeon takes more time than the laser portion of the procedure itself.
The main goal of LASIK surgery is to improve your eyesight and reduce your need for prescription glasses and contact lenses. Modern LASIK surgery has a very high likelihood of achieving 20/25 vision or better.
The following are some of the most common misconceptions and fears people have regarding LASIK.
MISCONCEPTION: The results of laser eye surgery aren’t permanent
The effects of LASIK are typically permanent and do not wear off. The procedure involves removing corneal tissue to reshape the eye. Once the cornea is surgically reshaped, it stays that way for life.
In some cases, a patient’s prescription will revert minimally after surgery. If this occurs, the patient can undergo an enhancement to fix this issue.
Additionally, due to age-related reasons, other parts of the eye can also experience gradual changes that are completely normal.
MISCONCEPTION: There is a high risk of going blind
There is currently no data suggesting that LASIK has been the primary cause of blindness in any patient who has undergone the procedure.
Overall, LASIK is widely considered a very low-risk procedure. LASIK has high success rates, with more than 96% of patients very satisfied with the results.
MISCONCEPTION: Astigmatism rules out the possibility of having LASIK
Patients with astigmatism, who wear glasses or contact lenses, experience a strong improvement in their vision after LASIK surgery.
If the refractive error is too high or if the patient has irregular astigmatism, a second LASIK procedure could be recommended.
MISCONCEPTION: LASIK is only for the young
There is only one age restriction for LASIK, and that is that you must be at least 18 years old. If you are over 18 and have healthy eyes, you can consult an eye specialist about LASIK.
MISCONCEPTION: The recovery period is long and painful
Within the first week following the procedure, you can often return to normal activities. While you can generally get back to work and your everyday routine within one to three days after surgery, you should not engage in any exercise or strenuous activity until a week after your procedure.
LASIK surgery proves to be a life-changing experience. Most people notice vision improvement right away and often experience a short recovery period after the procedure.
With that in mind, it’s important to remember to choose an experienced facility and surgeon to operate on your eyes. At Eye Consultants of Atlanta, our physicians are acclaimed experts in their fields. Patients who choose Eye Consultants of Atlanta receive high-quality comprehensive care.
Schedule a consultation online or by calling (404) 351-2020.
