IN 1999 LASIK was FDA approved to correct certain eye conditions. The majority of people that have this surgery are glad they did and get their 20/20 vision back. There are many pros to getting LASIK. However, there are cons as well. Let’s take a look at the pros and cons of getting the popular LASIK surgery.
LASIK eye surgery is a type of refractive surgery, and it’s the most popular surgical procedure for correcting nearsightedness, farsightedness, and/or astigmatism.
The Benefits:
- LASIK eye surgery does not involve any stitches.
- In only a matter of hours, patients start to see a difference.
- Can resume normal activities in 48 hours.
- This type of surgery can be done on an outpatient basis and usually takes about 15 minutes to complete.
- It can correct nearsightedness, farsightedness, and/or astigmatism with just one operation.
- LASIK eye surgery has been found to be safer than other types of refractive surgeries such as PRK (Photorefractive Keratectomy).
- Eyesight often improves after the procedure so there is no need for glasses or contact
- No more eyeglasses or contacts
- Improved Quality of Life
- The ability to go swimming and take part in other water sports without fear of damaging the eye.
- The risk of dry eyes is reduced.
- Reduces chances of developing cataracts over time
There are many benefits and the procedure is really very simple to have done which is why so many choose it. If you are thinking about improving your eyesight once and for all, then LASIK might be something worth looking into. While there are some risks involved with any surgery, you should speak to your doctor and find out what is right for you.
Is LASIK Surgery Right for Me?
LASIK surgery is a surgical procedure used to correct refractive errors in the eye. These refractive errors can cause nearsightedness, farsightedness, and astigmatism. Many people see LASIK surgery as a way to reverse their vision problems without wearing glasses or contact lenses.
But, Does LASIK Surgery Work for Everybody? There Are Some Cons.
The answer is no.
It might not be for you if you have eye conditions that can’t be corrected with LASIK surgery. Such things include age-related macular degeneration, cataracts, glaucoma, corneal dystrophies, or retinal detachment makes someone ineligible for laser eye surgery. If you are not sure of what your condition is, your eye doctor can assist.
It also isn’t recommended for those over the age of 40 as they might have a condition called presbyopia. This condition is where the lens of the eye will become stiff. This stiffness affects the close-up vision. LASIK is used to alter the cornea and not the lens, so a person with this condition will not have any improvement.
Some Cons of LASIK
Another con is that the flaps from surgery might not heal properly. This typically happens from a person accidentally getting poked in the eye with something. It is really important that the patient doesn’t rub their eyes and dislodge the flap. The flap is the opening that the laser uses to get the cornea. It is not secured in any way as the eye will naturally heal it if left alone.
Another con of getting LASIK is there is a small chance you will need it again. There is a higher chance if you have a high prescription. This condition has a name called myopic regression. This is when you had a successful outcome but over time will start to depend on glasses again.
Another side effect that should be discussed is dry eye. Most patients will have dry eyes for up to three months. However, after that, they are good to go. That is for most people, there is a small chance that the patient will experience dry eyes permanently. This side effect can be treated with eye drops. With the latest technologies, this happens less than it used to.
Let’s Take a Look at More Cons
Again, the most common is burning, itching, and dry eye which typically peaks around 3 months. However, these cons usually peak at about 6-12 months. Other common side effects are having halos and glare around lights at night. This too typically improves in 6-12 months and affects only about 20% of the people.
There is a small chance that the patient will not have 20/20 vision when the surgery is completed. Most places will allow that patient to have a second surgery to further correct the issue. However, most people will have 20/20 vision right out of surgery. The majority of patients report that the side effects are a mild nuisance to have their site back.
What to for the Best Outcome
It is important that the patient takes the time to ensure they are good confident. Not every person has a condition that will benefit from LASIK. Some complications that come about from surgery are because the patient wasn’t a good candidate for this type of surgery. Be sure that you speak with your doctor and determine what would be best for you.
Certain people should even avoid LASIK surgery, some of these incidences are:
- You’re under 18
- You’re pregnant
- You have rheumatoid arthritis, autoimmune disease, and uncontrolled diabetes.
- You have glaucoma or cataracts
- The cornea is too thin or uneven
If you feel that you are a good candidate then you need to find a doctor that you are comfortable with. Be sure to ask a lot of questions and get realistic expectations. If you speak to a doctor that just says you will love it, that should be a red flag. Realistic expectations are 90% will have a great experience and will come out with a 20/20 vision. However, 10% will not have 20/20 and 40% will have some sort of side effects, although many are minor.
As with any medical procedure, people should always do their own research to determine if the procedure is right for them. Take into account both pros and cons to determine if you are willing to take the risk. You should also explore how high the risk is.