While contact lenses still remain to be one of the leading ways to vision correction for many patients that need it, there are always risks that come with wearing contact lenses. Bacterial infections are a common problem with contact lenses users and many people experience dry, red, or itchy eyes. With these potential problems that come with wearing contact lenses, why aren’t more patients opting for LASIK eye surgery in Orange County? LASIK eye surgery is a very successful solution for vision correction. A recent study shows that an estimated 98.4% of patients who underwent LASIK eye surgery would opt for the procedure over again.
However, there are some myths that surround LASIK eye surgery, which make some skeptical. Below are some of the top myths about LASIK eye surgery in Orange County (and the facts about these myths!).
LASIK EYE SURGERY MYTH #1: LASIK eye surgery is expensive.
LASIK eye surgery has become extremely popular and accessible to patients, which means it is a considerably more affordable option for vision correction. If you take into account the cost over time for eye exams, new frames, new lenses, contact lenses, contact solution, eye drops, and everything else that comes with wearing corrective lenses, LASIK eye surgery in Orange County will actually save you money. Furthermore, it doesn’t take into account the time and inconvenience of having to visit the eye doctor and order contacts, plus having to put them in, clean them, take them out, etc., each and every day. Many doctor’s offices offer reasonable payment plans and financing options.
LASIK EYE SURGERY MYTH #2: The procedure is painful.
The procedure itself is very quick and typically takes about 15 minutes. Patients are providing numbing drops, which helps to limit any pain or discomfort. Patients typically report feeling a brief moment of pressure during the procedure when the corneal flap is created. Some patients tend to be more anxious or nervous about the procedure. Doctors can typically provide a mild sedative to help you relax and endure the procedure with the least amount of discomfort and anxiety.
LASIK EYE SURGERY MYTH #3: Recovery from LASIK eye surgery takes too long.
The recovery time for LASIK eye surgery is typically 24 hours or less. Patients should notice immediately improved vision following the procedure.
LASIK EYE SURGERY MYTH #4: LASIK eye surgery can only treat nearsightedness.
This myth is true with the original LASIK eye surgery procedure, but technology has since changed and LASIK is now used to correct both nearsightedness and farsightedness. Further, newer technology with LASIK can also fix monovision, blended vision and multifocal vision impairments.
LASIK EYE SURGERY MYTH #5: LASIK eye surgery doesn’t treat astigmatism.
This myth is believed to have originated from some of the centers that would charge higher fees for patients with astigmatism, claiming that it was more difficult or problematic. However, that is not the case. LASIK technology has been easily treating astigmatisms since the 90’s and is done quickly and easily with today’s laser technology.
LASIK EYE SURGERY MYTH #6: Patients who undergo LASIK eye surgery experience poor night vision.
Again, similar to many of the other myths, this myth originated from some of the common side effects experienced by patients early on when LASIK eye surgery was introduced. Patients have reported vision disturbances at night including glare or halos. Some still have reported this on occasion, but by far and large, this common side effect is rare.
LASIK EYE SURGERY MYTH #7: LASIK eye surgery is only for younger patients.
The only age restriction for patients for undergoing LASIK eye surgery is that they have to be over the age of 18 (and for some doctors, they prefer over the age of 21). There is no age limit for LASIK eye surgery. The only thing that may prohibit and older patient from getting LASIK eye surgery is if they have any other health issues or eye conditions that may prevent them from being a good candidate for LASIK eye surgery.
LASIK EYE SURGERY MYTH #8: The procedure is too new to know of any negative side effects.
LASIK eye surgery has been performed now for more than 25 years. The long-term studies around those that have had LASIK have been positive. Further, technology has only improved over the years, making the previous risks and potential complications minimal.
LASIK EYE SURGERY MYTH #9: LASIK eye surgery doesn’t last.
While most doctors will never claim LASIK eye surgery to be a permanent corrective solution, there are many cases where LASIK eye surgery has provided permanent results. There are a few rare cases where patients have experienced vision regression after LASIK. Patients can still develop other age-related vision changes, such as cataracts, but for the most part, LASIK eye surgery has yielded long-term and lasting results for majority of patients.
LASIK EYE SURGERY MYTH #10: You risk going blind undergoing LASIK eye surgery.
This myth is debunked by merely stating the fact that there’s not a single recorded case of a patient who has undergone LASIK eye surgery that has gone blind as a result of the surgery. LASIK eye surgery merely treats the surface layer of the eye in order to reshape the cornea and the likelihood of blindness occurring from LASIK eye surgery is extremely unlikely.
If you are nearsighted, farsighted, have an astigmatism or aren’t sure, but know that your vision is not as clear as it could be, and would like to discuss with an experienced doctor about whether or not LASIK eye surgery in Orange County is right for you, please contact us today at 1-866-997-2020 to schedule a FREE initial consultation.