If you're looking for a contact- and glasses-free way to improve you vision, you may have considered LASIK eye surgery. You should be aware that there are a number of myths and misconceptions surrounding LASIK, and it's important to separate the fact from fiction before making a decision about the procedure. Below are five common myths you may want to discuss with your eye doctor.
- "Anyone can have LASIK eye surgery."
Like any other kind of surgery, LASIK eye surgery requires an appropriate candidate. In order to determine if you are one of these appropriate candidates, you will want to have your regular eye doctor perform a screening. The ideal LASIK candidate will be at least 18 years old, healthy, be free of cataracts and glaucoma, and suffering from nearsightedness, farsightedness, or astigmatism.
- "LASIK eye surgery permanently cures patients"
In truth, the extent to which LASIK is a permanent solution depends largely upon the patient. Younger patients with mild conditions have a high rate of achieving nearly 20/20 vision. Your eye doctor will give you a range of realistic expectations during presurgery screening.
- "Since the laser does all the work, the surgeon doesn't matter."
When it comes to LASIK eye surgery, remember that you really do get what you paid for. Eyesight is precious, and LASIK eye surgery is not the right time to be overly frugal. When it comes to choosing the right surgeon, you should consider many things. Where did the surgeon study and practice? How many years of experience does he or she have? Are there currently any pending lawsuits? How do past patients feel about their results? Is the surgeon making unrealistic claims or being too forceful about you becoming a patient?
There are many signs to be mindful of when trying to choose the best surgeon for you. Only once all of those other points have been addressed should you worry about costs. Remember, you only have one set of eyes. Treat them well!
- "Using a laser to correct vision is too new."
Believe it or not, but laser vision correction has actually been widely used since the 1990s and is based on techniques originally developed in the 1980s.
- "LASIK shouldn't be considered a real surgery."
LASIK is a real surgical procedure and carries its own set of risks and rewards. When it comes to considering LASIK eye surgery, be sure to treat it as you would any other surgery.
