Many people who wear glasses or contact lenses wonder about LASIK surgery and whether it might be right for them. As one of the most commonly performed elective procedures worldwide, LASIK has helped millions of people reduce their dependence on corrective eyewear.
Understanding what LASIK offers can help you make an informed decision about your vision care options.
How LASIK Works
LASIK corrects refractive errors by reshaping the cornea using laser technology. Unlike glasses or contacts that provide a standardized correction, LASIK is customized to address your specific vision needs. This personalized approach often allows patients to achieve vision quality that may exceed what they experienced with traditional corrective lenses.
Studies show that approximately 96% of LASIK patients achieve 20/20 vision or better. Many patients also report improvements in depth perception and color perception following the procedure.
Daily Life Changes
For those who rely on glasses or contact lenses, LASIK can significantly simplify daily routines. You no longer need to worry about fogged glasses, broken frames, or the discomfort that can come with extended contact lens wear.
Morning routines become more streamlined without the need to insert contacts or clean glasses. Travel becomes easier with fewer items to pack and less concern about losing or damaging corrective lenses. Many patients appreciate the convenience during activities like swimming, sports, or even emergency situations where clear vision is immediately available.
Permanence and Longevity
LASIK creates permanent changes to the cornea’s shape. For candidates with stable prescriptions (typically unchanged for at least a year), the results are designed to last. While LASIK cannot prevent age-related changes like presbyopia or cataracts, it can provide decades of improved vision for distance correction.
The procedure itself is relatively quick, typically taking just a few minutes per eye, and is performed on an outpatient basis.
Recovery Process
Most LASIK patients experience minimal discomfort, usually lasting only a day or two. Vision improvements are often noticeable almost immediately, though complete healing takes several months. Many people return to work the next day, and most normal activities can be resumed within a few weeks.
During the recovery period, patients follow specific care instructions, including using prescribed eye drops and avoiding certain activities like contact sports for about a month.
Financial Considerations
While LASIK requires an upfront investment, many patients find it cost-effective over time. The average person spends approximately $500 annually on glasses, contacts, and related accessories. Over several years, these costs can add up significantly.
St. Luke’s offers financing options, including payment plans and the ability to use HSA or FSA funds. Some patients find that the procedure essentially pays for itself within a few years through savings on corrective eyewear.
Making an Informed Decision
LASIK isn’t right for everyone, and a thorough consultation with an eye care professional is essential to determine candidacy. Factors like overall eye health, prescription stability, and lifestyle considerations all play a role in determining whether LASIK is appropriate.
If you’re considering LASIK, scheduling a consultation can help you understand your options and make an informed decision about your vision care. Taking time to research and discuss the procedure with a qualified professional ensures you have the information needed to choose what’s best for your individual situation.
