Myths & Facts About LASIK Eye Surgery
LASIK eye surgery is a popular procedure that can correct common vision problems like myopia (nearsightedness), hyperopia (farsightedness), and astigmatism (blurry vision at all distances), and provide people with clearer vision. However, there are many misconceptions about LASIK that can lead to confusion and fear.
At Greenberg LASIK in Louisville and Indianapolis, we’re committed to helping our patients make a decision that’s right for them by presenting them with the facts. Below, we separate fact from fiction, and debunk common myths about LASIK eye surgery.
Myth: LASIK is unsafe.
Fact: LASIK is widely considered to be one of the safest elective medical procedures available. For most patients, the post-operative side effects are minimal and temporary.
Myth: LASIK is painful.
Fact: One of the benefits of LASIK is that it’s virtually painless. In fact, many of our patients are surprised by how little discomfort they feel during and after the procedure.
Prior to the surgery, our clinical staff will apply numbing drops to the eye(s) to minimize discomfort. The procedure itself usually takes around 10 minutes, with the laser used for less than a minute on each eye.
Myth: The recovery takes a long time.
Fact: For most patients, the recovery from LASIK is quick and easy. Many people are back to their normal routines within 24-hours of their procedure. Our clinical staff will monitor your healing through post-operative appointments to ensure you have a smooth recovery.
Myth: Contacts are safer than LASIK.
Fact: There’s a much higher chance of developing an infection from wearing contacts than undergoing LASIK.
According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), 1 out of every 500 contact lens wearer in the U.S. develops an infection due to improper cleaning and wearing habits, which can result in blindness.
Conversely, the American Society of Cataract and Refractive Surgery (ASCRS) found that only 1 out of every 2,919 people develops an infection following LASIK – an incidence of 0.035%.
Myth: The results of LASIK don’t last long.
Fact: LASIK is designed to be a long-term solution to vision problems. It uses a laser to remove corneal tissue and re-shape the curvature of the eye, thereby correcting the refractive error. This corneal tissue doesn’t grow back, making the visual results long-term.
However, LASIK can’t prevent vision changes due to age-related reasons. In such cases, a patient may be eligible for a retreatment. However, this is rare. One study from 2017 found that only 10% of LASIK patients require a retreatment due to age-related vision changes.
Myth: LASIK isn’t affordable.
Fact: LASIK can save you money in the long-run by reducing costs associated with glasses, prescription sunglasses, contact lenses, and contact lens solution. Try our savings calculator to see how much you can save across your lifetime.
At Greenberg LASIK, there are a number of ways we make laser eye surgery more affordable. We offer a variety of flexible financing plans so you can pay for your procedure over time.
We also offer a Lowest Price Guarantee. If you find another LASIK provider offering the same services for a lower cost, we’ll match the price as well as take an additional $100 off* the total cost of your procedure.
Moreover, it may be possible to use your HSA or FSA to cover the cost of your surgery.
When you come in for a free consultation at one of our Greenberg LASIK locations in Louisville and Indianapolis, we’ll provide you with the information you need to decide if LASIK is right for you. We’ll address any questions or concerns you may have and will ensure you understand what to expect from the procedure. Book your free consultation to get on the path to clearer vision today.
*Please note the following with regards to the Lowest Price Guarantee:
• Refunds will not be provided after the procedure has been completed
• The Lowest Price Guarantee offer cannot be combined with any other offer
• Candidacy for vision correction and procedure type must be determined solely by Greenberg LASIK