For many people who wear glasses or contact lenses, the idea of enjoying clear vision without the hassle of corrective eyewear is very appealing. LASIK stands for Laser-Assisted In Situ Keratomileusis). This is a popular procedure that can significantly improve one’s quality of life.
However, before you decide to move forward with LASIK, you must learn the pros and cons of LASIK eye surgery, the eligibility criteria, and possible alternatives.
The Advantages of LASIK Eye Surgery
Quick and Painless Procedure
Accurate laser beam diagnostics is essential during LASIK eye surgery to make the procedure quick, precise, and painless. The laser reshapes the cornea, which is responsible for focusing light on the retina. The retina, in turn, translates the light into chemical and electrical signals that travel along the optic nerve to the brain, which interprets those signals as images. The procedure typically takes around 10–15 minutes for each eye, and most patients experience minimal discomfort during and after the surgery.
Fast Recovery Time
One of the biggest advantages of LASIK is the short recovery time. Most people can return to their normal activities within a day or two, and patients can often see improvement in vision almost immediately after the procedure.
Long-lasting Results
LASIK eye surgery provides long-lasting improvements in vision. While it may not guarantee perfect 20/20 vision, most patients can expect substantial improvements, with many achieving 20/20 vision or very close to it.
Risks and Complications
Temporary Side Effects
Some patients may experience temporary side effects after LASIK surgery, such as dry eye symptoms, glare, or halos around lights. These side effects usually resolve within a few weeks or months.
Rare But Serious Complications
Although LASIK has a high success rate, it’s still a surgical procedure and carries some risks. Potential complications include infection, inflammation, under- or overcorrections, and rarely, loss of vision. Most of these complications are treatable, but it’s essential to be aware of these risks.
Cost
The cost of LASIK can be quite high, ranging from $2,000 to $3,000 per eye. While some insurance companies may cover a portion of the cost, most consider it an elective procedure and don’t provide full coverage.
Some People Are Not Good Candidates for LASIK
Not everyone is a suitable candidate for LASIK eye surgery. Those with thin corneas, severe dry eyes, or certain changes in the eyes that come with aging may not be eligible. In addition, LASIK may not be suitable for people with unstable vision changes, large pupils, or very high vision correction prescriptions. It’s crucial to consult with an eye specialist to determine if LASIK is right for you.
Alternatives to LASIK
If you’re not a candidate for LASIK, other options may still improve your vision.
Photorefractive Keratectomy (PRK)
Photorefractive keratectomy is similar to LASIK but is more suitable for individuals with thin corneas. However, recovery time can be longer and more uncomfortable with this procedure.
Implantable Collamer Lens (ICL)
An ICL is a type of lens that doctors can implant inside the eye to help those with very high prescriptions.
Refractive Lens Exchange (RLE)
RLE surgery replaces the eye’s natural lens with an artificial lens. Doctors often use it for cataract surgery or extreme farsightedness.
LASIK eye surgery has provided many people with the opportunity to enjoy clearer vision and improved quality of life. However, it’s not for everyone. Discuss the pros and cons of having LASIK eye surgery with your ophthalmologist to see if you’re a candidate or if you should accept that you must wear glasses or contacts.
