There’s no shortage of myths and misconceptions floating around when it comes to vision correction procedures like LASIK.
From concerns about safety and long-term effects to doubts about its effectiveness and fears of LASIK eye surgery gone wrong statements online, these myths can often leave people feeling uncertain and hesitant about pursuing this life-changing treatment.
At Beach Eye Care, we understand that considering LASIK can be both exciting and daunting. With so much information available, it’s easy to encounter these myths and misconceptions about the procedure and start to second-guess things.
As your trusted eye care professionals in Hampton Roads, we’re here to debunk these myths and provide the truth about LASIK, ensuring you make informed decisions about your eye health.
Myth 1: Physicians Would Never Have LASIK on Their Own Eyes
One of the most persistent myths surrounding LASIK lately is the belief that physicians themselves would never undergo the procedure.
However, this couldn’t be further from the truth.
In fact, many ophthalmologists and eye care professionals have had LASIK performed on their own eyes, a testament to their confidence in the procedure’s safety and effectiveness.
Want to hear it from LASIK surgeons themselves? Check out this video.
A Beach Eye Care surgeon performed the first LASIK procedure in Virginia in 1997 that was a part of the studies that led to FDA approval of LASIK.
Myth 2: LASIK Increases the Risk of Glare and Halos
Another common concern is the belief that LASIK can increase the risk of experiencing glare and halos around lights, particularly at night. While some patients may experience glare or halos immediately after surgery, these symptoms are typically temporary and resolve within a few weeks to months.
Addressing the Concern
- Temporary LASIK Sye Surgery Side Effects: It’s common to experience some visual disturbances during the healing process. However, advanced LASIK technology and techniques have significantly reduced the incidence of long-term glare and halos.
- Customized Treatment: Modern LASIK procedures are highly personalized, taking into account each patient’s unique eye characteristics, which helps minimize potential side effects.
Myth 3: LASIK Has a High Risk of Complications and Side Effects
While no medical procedure is entirely risk-free, LASIK has an excellent safety profile when performed by experienced and qualified surgeons. The risk of serious complications is extremely low, and most LASIK side effects, if any, are typically mild and temporary.
LASIK is a well-established procedure with a high safety profile. Serious complications are rare, occurring in less than 1% of cases.
LASIK Safety
- FDA Approval: The FDA approved LASIK in 1999, and ongoing evaluations continue to affirm its safety.
- Advanced Technology: The use of precise, computer-guided lasers ensures personalized treatment and minimizes LASIK risks.
Most side effects, such as dry eyes or mild discomfort, are temporary and resolve within a few weeks to months, making LASIK one of the safest elective surgeries available.
Myth 4: LASIK is Painful
Many people assume that LASIK is painful, but this is not the case.
While there may be some mild discomfort or pressure during the procedure, most patients report little to no pain thanks to numbing eye drops.
Our experienced ophthalmologists use these numbing eye drops to ensure your comfort throughout the procedure.
Additionally, the LASIK process itself is quick, typically taking less than 15 minutes per eye. Most patients report minimal discomfort during the procedure and can resume their normal activities within a day or two.
Myth 5: LASIK Only Lasts a Few Years or Wears Off Over Time
A common misconception about LASIK is that its effects are temporary and that vision improvements will eventually wear off, necessitating additional treatments.
However, this is not the case.
LASIK works by reshaping the cornea to correct vision problems such as nearsightedness, farsightedness, and astigmatism. This reshaping is designed to be a lasting correction, and the changes made to your cornea during LASIK are permanent.
While the effects of LASIK don’t wear off, it’s important to understand that your eyes may continue to change and age over time. This can lead to new vision issues that were not present at the time of your LASIK surgery.
For instance, presbyopia (age-related farsightedness) and cataracts can develop as you age, affecting your vision. These conditions are unrelated to your LASIK procedure and are a normal part of the aging process.
Sometimes, the vision problem that was originally treated with LASIK can progress or new imperfections can develop on the cornea over time. This doesn’t mean that LASIK is wearing off; it simply means that your eyes are continuing to change. If this happens, additional treatments or enhancements are an option to address these new changes.
Most patients enjoy long-term, stable vision after LASIK. According to a study published in the Journal of Cataract and Refractive Surgery, 94% of patients remained satisfied with their vision five years or more after surgery.
However, should your vision change due to aging or other factors, additional corrective measures can be taken.
Myth 6: Dry Eye is Common After LASIK
While dry eye can occur during LASIK eye surgery recovery time, it is typically a short-lived side effect that resolves within a few weeks or months. Advances in LASIK technology and techniques have significantly reduced the risk of long-term dry eye issues.
Managing Dry Eyes after LASIK Surgery
- Temporary Condition: Dry eye symptoms in the first few months after surgery are normal and typically improve as the eyes heal.
- Treatment Options: Using artificial tears, prescription eye drops, and other treatments recommended by your surgeon can help manage and alleviate dry eye symptoms.
Most patients find that their dry eye symptoms resolve within a few months, allowing them to enjoy the benefits of clear vision without discomfort.
A thorough preop evaluation of dry eyes will be performed by your surgeon to determine treatment if patient is in the 10% of people that needs additional treatment beyond artificial tears.
Myth 7: LASIK Can Make You Blind
One of the most alarming myths about LASIK is the belief that it can lead to blindness. However, this is not true.
LASIK is an incredibly safe and effective procedure when performed by qualified and experienced surgeons.
Safety Measures
- Experienced Surgeons: LASIK is performed by highly trained and skilled surgeons who follow strict protocols to ensure patient safety.
- Advanced Technology: Using state-of-the-art technology and precise laser systems minimizes risks and enhances outcomes.
By choosing a reputable provider like Beach Eye Care, you can trust in the safety and efficacy of your LASIK procedure.
Myth 8: People with Astigmatism Can’t Have LASIK
Another common myth is that individuals with astigmatism are not suitable candidates for LASIK. However, this procedure can effectively correct astigmatism, nearsightedness, and farsightedness.
Treating Astigmatism with LASIK
- Advanced Technology: Modern LASIK technology can precisely reshape the cornea to correct astigmatism, providing clear vision for patients with this condition.
- Comprehensive Evaluation: Our experienced ophthalmologists will thoroughly evaluate your suitability for LASIK and ensure the best possible outcome.
Many patients with astigmatism achieve excellent results with LASIK, enjoying clear vision without the need for glasses or contact lenses.
Myth 9: Long-term Side Effects of LASIK Haven’t Been Evaluated
Some people are hesitant about LASIK because they believe the long-term side effects haven’t been thoroughly evaluated. However, this is a false notion.
This procedure has been performed for over 25 years, and numerous studies continue to be conducted showing its long-term safety and effectiveness.
At Beach Eye Care, we stay up-to-date with the latest research and advancements in LASIK technology. We are committed to providing our patients with the most accurate and reliable information so they can make informed decisions about their vision care.
Myth 10: LASIK is Only for Young People
Many people believe that there is an age limit for LASIK and that older individuals may not be suitable candidates. However, this is a myth.
While LASIK is generally recommended for those between the ages of 18 and 60, the decision is based on the overall health of the eyes and the stability of the patient’s vision rather than age alone.
Age Considerations:
- Younger Patients: Candidates must be at least 18 years old and have a stable prescription for at least one year. This ensures that their vision is no longer changing, which is critical for long-term success.
- Older Adults: Patients in their 40s, 50s, and beyond can also be good candidates for LASIK, particularly if they are free of age-related eye conditions like cataracts or severe dry eye.
Trust the Experts at Beach Eye Care
At Beach Eye Care, we are committed to providing our patients with accurate and reliable information about LASIK and other vision correction options. By debunking these common myths, we hope to empower you to make an informed decision about your eye health.
If you’re considering LASIK in Coastal Virginia or North Carolina or have any questions or concerns, our team of experienced ophthalmologists is here to guide you every step of the way. We prioritize patient education, transparency, and personalized care to ensure the best possible outcomes.
Don’t let myths and misconceptions prevent you from achieving clear, crisp vision. Contact Beach Eye Care today to schedule a consultation and take the first step towards a life with improved vision and confidence.
