Nowadays, there are many different options for improving your vision and maintaining a high quality of life. Between contacts, glasses, and LASIK, consumers often wonder which is best for their lifestyle. Much of what comprises the best choice for you will depend on the exact specifics of your vision.
Because consumers face a variety of choices, it can be challenging to discern exactly what the best one might be. Therefore, it is beneficial to educate themselves about the benefits and drawbacks of the available options. If you are wondering whether contacts, glasses, or LASIK would benefit you most, this guide can help you make the right choice.
Glasses, Contacts, or LASIK
Eyeglasses
Eyeglasses are the most easily accessible and commonly employed type of eyewear. If you are not familiar with them, the basic concept is utilizing two clear glass lenses to magnify and correct vision as needed. These lenses are supported by wireframes of some kind. Millions of people have successfully employed eyeglasses for centuries.
There are several different types of eyeglasses, which include the following:
- Single-vision use
- Bifocals
- Trifocals
The type of eyeglasses that you will receive will depend on the prescription that you are given, which is measured by a unit called a diopter. The following factors will influence your glasses prescription:
- The level of nearsightedness or farsightedness, or the sphere
- The measure of astigmatism in degrees, or the axis
- The level of astigmatism in general, or the cylinder
In addition, each type of eyeglass will utilize a different type of lens, which comes in the following forms:
- Cylindrical lenses: These lenses are thin in the center and correct myopia and nearsightedness.
- Convex lenses: These lenses are thick in the center and correct hyperopia or nearsightedness.
- Concave lenses: These lenses are thinner in the center and correct astigmatism.
Contacts
Contact lenses are thin, curved lenses placed directly on the cornea of the eye. They affect the way that light enters the eye, subsequently changing one’s vision. Contacts remain a very popular substitution for those who do not want to or cannot wear glasses.
Contacts can be beneficial for people like athletes who cannot safely wear glasses. There are several different types of contacts that are available, including the following:
- Daily replacement lenses
- Rigid gas permeable lenses
- Extended wear contacts
Contact lenses carry many advantages over glasses due to their inconspicuousness and flexibility. However, contacts also have some noticeable drawbacks, including the following:
- Many experience discomfort due to contact lenses.
- It can take time to get used to them.
- It is possible to contract an eye infection if the lenses are improperly cleaned.
- You may need to replace them often.
- They are easily lost or damaged.
Many individuals use contacts and glasses in conjunction, employing them for different situations in their daily lives.
LASIK
The newest and arguably most exciting type of vision adjustment available on the market is LASIK, a type of laser surgery that can change the cornea’s shape and permanently correct vision. LASIK is incredibly powerful and can offer a patient a permanent upgrade to their vision.
Thus far, LASIK boasts very high success rates and, in some cases, gives patients even better vision than they had prior to its initial decline. That said, there are some risks to stay aware of should you decide to undergo LASIK:
- Dry eyes
- Undercorrection and overcorrection
- Glares and halos
If you are interested in undergoing LASIK, you will need to consult with your optometrist about your eligibility and general health. Some of the factors that will be looked into to determine if you qualify for LASIK include:
- Your lifestyle and lifestyle habits
- Your age
- Your overall health
- Your prescription strength if you wear eyeglasses
- The overall thickness of your cornea
- Any complicating conditions that you might experience
Most individuals who do not have a serious chronic health issue should find that they qualify.
Orange County’s Resource for LASIK
Dr. Ghosheh and the rest of the Advanced Eye Medical team are completely dedicated to delivering customers the best service possible for LASIK and other eye treatments. If you are interested in LASIK eye treatment in Orange County, contact our office today to set up an appointment.