To get Lasik or not to get Lasik, that’s the question. Just Google “Lasik,” and you’ll get pages and pages of information about the procedure. There are loads of both success and horror stories. It can be difficult to know what’s true and what’s false due to all the misinformation and the self-proclaimed experts out there. Advanced Eye Medical, a trusted and proven Lasik resource for over 20 years, is here to give you the truth about a few of the most common Lasik myths.
Myth: Lasik is not safe enough because the technology is too new
It’s true that Lasik is a relatively newer procedure. The first FDA-approved procedure was performed in the US in 1987. The technology has come a long way since that first procedure. The new iLasik technology uses the most accurate lasers to date. It’s so advanced and effective, NASA has even approved it for use by its astronauts. And as far as safety is concerned, Lasik is like any other procedure – there are some risks. Total vision loss from the surgery is extremely rare, and the minute amount of complications can be fixed using either medical treatments or additional surgery. It’s been over 25 years since the first procedure, and patient satisfaction rates continue to grow while rates of complication continue to fall.
Myth: Lasik will eliminate the need for glasses or contacts permanently
This is the promise of Lasik, and it seems almost too good to be true. But it isn’t. Just one Lasik procedure can eliminate the need for prescriptive vision aids for most people. However, just like other surgeries, individual results can vary. A good doctor will be honest in his or her assessment of the patient’s eyes and the realistic results. With uncomplicated healing, the vast majority of patients find that they no longer need glasses or contacts. Time takes its toll on all eyes though, and the need for reading glasses or other prescriptive vision aids may return as the eyes age, regardless of surgical history.
Myth: Lasik only works on certain conditions, and many people aren’t good candidates
Lasik works on many conditions, including nearsightedness, farsightedness, and astigmatism. Self-screening for Lasik treatment is not a great idea. A proper screening exam by an experienced and proven eye doctor is the best way to determine if a patient is a good candidate for the surgery. Professional and honest screening will help avoid most complications. Most Lasik candidates have the following health profile:
- 18 and older
- In good overall health with no uncontrolled diseases
- Free of eye disease, such as glaucoma or cataracts
- Not pregnant or nursing
- Have mild or no eye conditions, such as dry eye or amblyopia
- Stable vision prescription for over 1 year
Myth: Lasik is very expensive and all Lasik surgeries are the same, so it’s okay to bargain shop
As with most things in life, people get what they pay for with Lasik. Different lasers that work best for different conditions are available, so paying for a procedure that uses the best laser for the patient will be a good investment. Some discounted options may use technology that is not personalized to each patient and may cause disappointing results, complications, and longer healing time. Investing in the best and most customized care for the eyes is important because Lasik only happens once, and each patient only has one set of precious eyes. And as for price, Lasik is more affordable now than it has ever been. With options like financing and payment plans, Lasik is doable for most budgets.
Myth: Lasers and machines do the entire procedure, so researching the right doctor is unnecessary
The laser is simply a tool that each surgeon uses during surgery. Laser technology ensures some level of uniformity in Lasik surgery, but each doctor will garner different results. Research is the most important step in the Lasik decision-making process. A patient who fully understands the risks and benefits associated with the procedure and is happy with their choice of doctor will have the most favorable outcome from surgery. Patients should search for doctors with high levels of patient satisfaction, not just high numbers of surgeries performed. They should also search for a doctor with exceptional pre- and post-operative care.
Separate Myth from Fact at Advanced Eye Medical
If you are curious about Lasik Orange County or iLasik, but want more information, contact Advanced Eye Medical today. They have been providing remarkable results for patients in the Orange County area for over 25 years. Schedule your consultation today and get the correct facts about Lasik.