3 Myths & 3 Truths about LASIK Eye Surgery
LASIK is a popular, safe procedure that can eliminate the need for glasses for many patients. Because it is so well known, there are various myths about LASIK that aren’t actually true. Whether the information comes from the internet or from friends who heard it from friends, it can be hard to tell whether what you’re hearing is valid. What’s fact and what’s fiction? We listed some of the top myths and truths for you.
MYTH: LASIK is dangerous
TRUTH: LASIK surgery has had a long, well-established safety record for more than 20 years. It’s popularity and success rate is demonstrated in the fact that the majority of patients who had LASIK said they would choose the procedure again.
Of course, with every surgery, there is always a risk of side effects. The typical side effects of LASIK are usually minor, such as temporarily having blurry vision or feeling like something is in your eye.
MYTH: LASIK results are temporary
TRUTH: LASIK results are permanent. LASIK uses a laser to permanently reshape the cornea. The cornea will not go back to the shape they had before LASIK. However, as your eyes age, like anyone else, one day you will need to wear reading glasses. This is not related to the shape of your cornea or your LASIK results, but to the fact that the interior lens thickens and loses flexibility with age, making it difficult for patients to focus on near objects.
MYTH: LASIK recovery is difficult
TRUTH: After LASIK, most people can return to light activities within 24 hours. You will need to avoid sports or heavy exercise for a week or so to ensure no excessive sweat gets in your eyes.
As your eyes heal, you’ll need to apply special eyedrops for five days, and keep water, creams and makeup out of your eyes.
MYTH: Anyone can get LASIK
TRUTH: LASIK works for most people who are over the age of 18. However, if you have a thin cornea, or uneven cornea, for example, LASIK is not right for you. Other procedures that may be best are PRK, ICL lens implants, or RLE (refractive lens exchange) lens implants. Some patients may also benefit from collagen crosslinking of the cornea.
MYTH: You still need glasses after LASIK
TRUTH: The great majority of patients don’t need glasses anymore after LASIK. A small percentage of patients may benefit from additional laser touch up.
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If you have questions about LASIK surgery and what we can achieve for you, please contact us today.