LASIK 101: Common Myths

For many people considering LASIK vision correction surgery misinformation combined with a fear of the unknown, has been enough to stop them from taking steps toward this life-enhancing procedure. Under the correct circumstances, LASIK can be a safe and effective to free yourself from the hassles of glasses and contacts.

Knowledge is power. The following information separates LASIK fact from fiction:

Myth: LASIK is a painful procedure.

• FACT: A mild oral sedative is given before the procedure to relax the patient. For the procedure numbing eye drops are given to patients before surgery to ensure they remain relaxed and comfortable. No shots or needles are use during the LASIK procedure. A lid holder is placed in the eye so the Patient cannot blink. Although patients may feel some pressure (15-45 seconds while the flap is being created), most patients report a little discomfort during the procedure, however pain is NOT a word Patients customarily use to describe their LASIK.

Myth: There is a lot of risk with having LASIK.

• FACT: For ideal candidates, LASIK is a one of the safest medical procedures performed in the World today. Generally, the risk of a serious complications after a LASIK procedure is less than one half of 1 percent. Determining your individual LASIK candidacy effects your safe outcome form the procedure and is an extremely important step to take prior to proceeding with any laser vision correction surgery decision.

Myth: LASIK does not correct astigmatism.

• FACT: Most astigmatism can effectively be treated with today's LASIK eye surgery technology. Unfortunately this myth about astigmatism has held many patients back from proceeding with LASIK. There are some very rare, extremely high astigmatic patients that fall beyond the ability of current technology. However these patients represent less than 1% of astigmatic patients.

Myth: Having a LASIK procedure will require a long recovery time.

• FACT: LASIK is a 15 minute outpatient procedure, and most patients are able to return to work and daily activities the very next day.

Myth: Patients must hold their eyes perfectly still during the procedure or it will adversely affect the outcome.

• FACT: Today’s Advanced FDA-Approved LASIK Lasers have sophisticated Eye Trackers that ensure eye movements by the patient during the procedure do not adversely affect the visual outcome.

Myth: People with very dry eyes cannot undergo LASIK.

• FACT: The latest advances in flap creation and dry eye treatment have made LASIK a reality for many dry eye patients that previously could not have LASIK. Your doctor is the best person to discuss the details of your particular situation.

Myth: Anyone with a very high prescription cannot safely undergo for LASIK.

• FACT: Studies have shown that LASIK can be safe and effective for patients with "extreme" prescriptions. More than 94% of the population that require eyeglasses or contact lenses can have the most advanced form of LASIK treatment.

Questions or concerns? Give one of our experienced Vision Counselors a a call at 317-2020-NOW (669) or to schedule a FREE Consultation with one of our experienced doctors today.