Common Misconceptions About LASIK

Because the concept of LASIK is still relatively new to the general public, there are many misconceptions floating around about this simple corrective surgery. People are confused about everything from what LASIK is to who it can help to what the procedure actually costs. Many ideal LASIK candidates allow their misguided concerns about the surgery's risks or effectiveness prevent them from benefiting from the procedure. In this article, we're going to lay the four most common LASIK myths to rest.

Myth #1: LASIK is too dangerous

The lasers used in LASIK operations and the procedures themselves have been approved by the FDA. These days, virtually all LASIK operations are an out-patient procedure, meaning that LASIK recipients can go home almost immediately after their surgery. More than 95 percent of LASIK patients will experience no side effects beyond mild discomfort within the first 24 hours.

Myth #2: LASIK is only for people with myopia

LASIK is no doubt extremely effective in treating people with myopic eye conditions, but these days laser surgery is also commonly used to treat hyperopia. Additional uses for the LASIK procedure are currently being tested and perfected.

Myth #3: LASIK results are short-term

For most LASIK patients, the results of their operation are essentially for life. Even after LASIK, some people may need to use reading glasses as their eyes undergo the normal effects of aging, but a recent study of past LASIK patients showed that laser surgery recipients retained perfect to near-perfect vision at least 10 years after their operations.

Myth #4: LASIK is too expensive

As the procedure becomes more common, the cost of LASIK is decreasing on a regular basis. While the complete cost of a LASIK procedure may still seem expensive to people on a tight budget, these days many insurance companies offer LASIK coverage. Uninsured? Most LASIK providers offer payment plans that make the operation accessible to virtually anyone.