As Halloween approaches, we’re not just looking out for ghouls, ghosts, and goblins—we’re also confronting some spooky myths surrounding LASIK surgery! Over the years, there have been countless rumors and misconceptions about LASIK that can make people nervous about the procedure. But don’t worry, we’re here to bust these myths wide open and give you the real story!
1. LASIK Will Hurt
MYTH: “LASIK surgery is incredibly painful! It’s like getting poked in the eye over and over again.”
REALITY: While LASIK may sound intimidating, it’s actually painless for most patients. The procedure is performed with a numbing eye drop, so most patients won’t feel anything during the surgery. Some people may experience mild discomfort afterward, but this typically subsides within a few hours. Any sensation you do feel is often described as light pressure, not pain.
2. LASIK is Only for People with Perfectly Healthy Eyes
MYTH: “If my eyes aren’t perfect, I can’t get LASIK. I need perfect vision to qualify.”
REALITY: LASIK is designed to correct common vision problems such as nearsightedness, farsightedness, and astigmatism, but it doesn’t require perfectly healthy eyes. If you have dry eyes or thin corneas, you might still be a good candidate for other vision correction procedures like EVO ICL. The key is to schedule a comprehensive eye exam with an experienced surgeon to assess your individual needs.
3. LASIK Is Only for the Young
MYTH: “LASIK is only effective for younger people. If I’m over 40, I’m out of luck!”
REALITY: While it’s true that vision changes with age, LASIK can still be effective for many people over 40, particularly those with nearsightedness, farsightedness, or astigmatism. However, as we age, many people begin to experience presbyopia (the need for reading glasses), which LASIK doesn’t fully address. For those with more advanced presbyopia, alternatives like Custom Lens Replacement (CLR) may be better suited to correct both near and distance vision. It’s important to consult with an eye care specialist to determine the best option for your unique vision needs.
4. LASIK Surgery is Permanent and Never Needs Adjustments
MYTH: “Once I have LASIK, my vision will be perfect forever. No need for follow-ups or adjustments.”
REALITY: While LASIK is a long-lasting solution, it doesn’t freeze your eyes at the moment of surgery. As we age, our eyes change naturally. Most patients enjoy years of great vision after LASIK, but some may experience slight changes in their vision over time. If your prescription changes, it’s possible to have an enhancement procedure to correct any shifts. LASIK isn’t a magical fix that stops the aging process, but it provides a solid foundation for clearer vision.
Are you ready to take the next step in your vision journey?
5. LASIK Causes Serious Side Effects
MYTH: “LASIK will leave me with lifelong side effects like glare, halos, or permanent vision problems.”
REALITY: While there are potential risks with any surgery, serious side effects from LASIK are rare. Most patients experience a brief period of mild side effects like glare or halos around lights—especially at night—but these typically resolve within a few days to weeks. The vast majority of patients have excellent outcomes with improved vision, and serious complications are uncommon.
6. LASIK Can Only Be Done Once
MYTH: “If I have LASIK, I can never have any other procedures again if my vision changes.”
REALITY: If your vision changes after LASIK, you may still be eligible for an enhancement procedure. Additionally, other options like EVO ICL or Custom Lens Replacement (CLR) are available if your vision needs evolve over time. It’s important to consult with your surgeon about the best options for your evolving vision needs.
7. LASIK is the Only Option for Vision Correction
MYTH: “LASIK is the one and only surgery for correcting vision, so if I’m not a candidate, I’m out of luck.”
REALITY: If LASIK isn’t right for you, there are several alternatives! Options like EVO ICL, which implants a lens inside the eye, or PRK (a type of laser eye surgery), offer great alternatives for patients who aren’t LASIK candidates. Additionally, if you have dry eyes or thin corneas, these options may be more suitable for you.
So, What’s the Real Story?
When it comes to LASIK, there are plenty of myths out there that can be scarier than the truth! While it’s important to understand any risks involved with any surgery, LASIK has helped millions of people see more clearly, often with no more hassle than a short procedure and a bit of recovery time.
If you’re tired of dealing with glasses or contacts and are curious about whether LASIK or another vision correction procedure is right for you, the best way to know is by scheduling a comprehensive eye exam. Our experienced team will assess your eyes and help you explore the best options to help you achieve clear vision without the tricks!
