LASIK Myths and Misconceptions
May 23, 2016
If you wear glasses or contact lenses you have probably considered LASIK laser vision correction at some point. Perhaps you did some research about the procedure. Many clear vision seekers let common myths and misconceptions about vision correction scare them away from a lifetime of great vision. While the internet has much good information, it is common to find misleading and untrue information as well…especially about healthcare.
We answer questions daily about the surprising misconceptions patients have about LASIK. But after meeting Dr. Whitten and receiving a thorough consultation, most patients decide that LASIK is indeed a good choice for them. And once these patients have had LASIK surgery, the only question they have left is simply: “Why did I wait so long?”
Here is the truth about the most common myths and misconceptions about LASIK surgery:
Common Myth #1:
“I cannot have LASIK laser vision correction because I have an astigmatism.”
The Whitten Laser Eye Truth:
At Whitten Laser Eye, our LASIK outcomes for patients with astigmatism are remarkable. In most cases these patients who could not see their alarm clock without glasses are now seeing 20/20 and free if glasses and contact lenses. Astigmatism is difficult to treat with just glasses or contact lenses because of the eye’s unique curvature causing the visual disturbance. To get proper correction using contact lenses requires a perfect fit to this curvature, and this is often hard to do. With LASIK, the curvature of the cornea is actually reshaped, and any other refractive error is corrected at the same time. Our astigmatic patients who have LASIK to correct their vision are among our most satisfied patients.
Common Myth #2:
“I am too old to have LASIK.”
The Whitten Laser Eye Truth:
While the majority of people who undergo LASIK laser vision correction are in their 20’s to 40’s, there is no strict age limit. When you have an evaluation with Dr. Whitten at Whitten Laser Eye, he will evaluate your individual needs and desires to determine the best vision correction option for you based on many unique factors. Dr. Whitten has performed LASIK on adults of all ages dependent on their visual needs. There are alternative vision correction options such as PRK, refractive lens exchange, premium intraocular lenses, the KAMRA Inlay to correct presbyopia (reading vision), and even cataract surgery for those with mature cataracts. Our experienced team will listen to your visual expectations, thoroughly examine your eye health, and work with you to determine if LASIK or another procedure would be beneficial to your individual needs.
Common Myth #3:
“LASIK is too expensive for even average salaried people.”
The Whitten Laser Eye Truth:
Many studies have been conducted comparing the cost of LASIK to a lifetime of glasses and contact lenses. Yes, LASIK requires a larger amount to be spent at one time, but LASIK will also save you thousands of dollars over a lifetime of expensive glasses replacements, contact lenses and supplies. At Whitten Laser Eye offer options to make this important procedure affordable. One option is convenient, interest free financing that allows patients to break up the fee into monthly payments. Another popular approach is using your company’s HSA or Flex Spending account. LASIK is a qualifying expense with these plans. Also – did you know that LASIK is a tax-deductible expense! It is! Make sure to bring your LASIK paperwork to your accountant during tax season to see if you qualify to save.
Common Myth #4:
“LASIK is not safe- I could go blind.”
The Whitten Laser Eye Truth:
The fear of going blind is very common. It is actually extremely rare to experience any kind of vision loss with LASIK Laser Vision Correction. As with any medical procedure, there is risk involved. At Whitten Laser Eye we review the risks of LASIK with you thoroughly. When Dr. Whitten determines your candidacy for LASIK laser vision correction, he uses a variety of sophisticated diagnostic tools to spot any eye conditions that could cause potential issues post-LASIK surgery. Experience matters! Having a surgeon with the experience of Dr. Whitten is an important factor in the success of your vision correction procedure.
Common Myth #5:
“The LASIK procedure is painful and recovery is long.”
The Whitten Laser Eye Truth:
In their testimonials, patients routinely say they had little or no pain during their LASIK procedure. Before LASIK you will be given anesthetic drops that help to numb the eyes. During the procedure you may feel slight pressure due to the suction ring that is used to stabilize your eye.
Most patients see well immediately following their LASIK procedure. The recovery and healing time for LASIK is quite fast. Most people return to their normal activities the day following their procedure.
So if you have been waiting to have LASIK because of these fears or any others, get the right information to make the best-informed decision. Your thorough consultation with Dr. Whitten is always free. Ask questions. Whitten Laser Eye will help you make the best decision for your unique set of eyes!