Laser vision correction can be highly intimidating. And since the introduction of LASIK, there have been plenty of conflicting stories about what you can expect from this procedure. However, as it becomes more commonplace, it’s important for you to understand how to separate fact from fiction. The better informed you are, the more likely you are to make smart decisions for your long-term health and happiness. Read on to debunk these common myths about LASIK:
Anyone Can Get LASIK
If you’re considering LASIK, one of the first things you should know is that it isn’t possible for everyone. There are some eye viruses and diseases that disqualify you from LASIK eligibility. Patients with thin or irregular corneas will also have an issue. But believe or not, there are some other health complications outside of optometry that could prevent you from having a successful treatment. For instance, autoimmune diseases and uncontrolled diabetes are issues that affect LASIK.
“It’s important that you meet with a LASIK surgeon for your visit correction needs to determine whether you’re a good candidate for the procedure,” says Excel Eye, a surgeon that offers some of the best LASIK in Orange County. “You can gather insightful information by going to at least two consultations in your area.
You Can Go Blind
Although there are no confirmed cases of LASIK patients going blind, there’s still a circulating myth that the procedure can make you blind. In fact, you have the same probability of going blind as you do from wearing contact lenses (which is to say, nonexistent). If you wear contact lenses and qualify for treatment, you’re almost guaranteed a smooth surgery. Before the surgeon performs any operation, they work with you to determine any possible issues.
LASIK Is Painful
The idea of laser eye surgery does, of course, sound painful in theory. But there are plenty of misconceptions about what you can expect in regards to physical feelings. The vast majority of patients don’t feel anything at all, and a small number might feel slight uncomfortability. To start with, the eyes are numbed with anesthetic drops. Afterwards, you might feel a slight irritation for a few hours, but it’s nothing over-the-counter medication like ibuprofen won’t alleviate.
There Are Potential Long-Term Side Effects
Like many innovative medical procedures, one of the biggest questions is whether there will be side effects—both short and long-term. With this in mind, many have speculated that there are long-term risks associated with LASIK that have yet to be discovered. Laser eye surgery was initially developed in the 1980s, and millions of patients have had the procedure completed since then. To date, there have been no known side effects.
All LASIK Surgeons Are the Same
Anytime you’re getting a service, it wouldn’t be wise to assume all surgeons are the same. Just because one nail technician has the same tools as the other doesn’t mean they will both do a stellar job. The same applies to LASIK surgeons. Even with the same tools and protocols, there’s still research to be done. Check out local surgeons and learn more about their credentials, office manners, and how long they’ve been performing the surgery. Online reviews and in-person consultations are very important here.
You’ll Never Need Vision Correction Again
While LASIK offers a great long-term vision correction solution, the fact is, your vision changes with age and time. Later on in life, there’s a possibility that you may need reading glasses or a small prescription for driving at night. While this isn’t the case for many patients, it’s important to understand that 20/20 vision isn’t a lifetime guarantee with laser eye surgery. Furthermore, even with good vision, you should be getting regular eye checkups to maintain good health for your eyes.
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