When it comes to LASIK, it can be hard to separate fact from fiction. There is
always that one nervous relative who has a friend, who has a cousin, who knows
someone that had a terrible experience during their LASIK procedure.
Fortunately, LASIK has become very commonplace in the last ten years or so as
people increasingly realize how life-changing it can be. But these fears will always
persist in some small way so this article will attempt to debunk some of your
biggest LASIK fears.
Fear: “LASIK could cause blindness.”
Fact: LASIK is an incredibly safe procedure and there are actually no confirmed
cases of LASIK ever blinding anyone. There is a possibility for complications but
this is very rare. Ultimately, the best thing to do is talk to your doctor about the
risks and benefits so they can assess whether or not you are a good candidate for
LASIK.
Fear: “The surgery will be painful.”
Fact: Truthfully, you will feel very little during the procedure aside from some
minor pressure. Your doctor will give you numbing drops prior to the surgery so
your LASIK experience will be pain-free.
Fear: “If my doctor makes a mistake there is nothing they can do to fix it.”
Fact: First of all, over 95 percent of LASIK patients are happy with their results so
statistically, you probably will be too. However, if a mistake does happen there are a
number of treatment options your doctor can pursue.
Fear: “Because LASIK is so new they haven’t discovered the long-term side effects
yet.”
Fact: We hate to break it to you, but LASIK is not new! The first reported LASIK
treatment happened in the 1980’s! Lasik has actually been around longer than most
millennials. The majority of side effects from LASIK are mild, happen immediately
following the surgery, and resolve themselves quickly.
Fear: “I hate the idea of staying awake during surgery.”
Fact: This is one of the most common fears about LASIK. Many people are
uncomfortable with the idea of staying awake during the surgery. But think about it
this way — there are actually a number of risks associated with undergoing general
anesthesia!
LASIK is an incredibly short procedure that takes only 15 minutes at most. However,
the benefits of perfect vision will last you for the rest of your life.
We know that the decision to have LASIK surgery is not an easy one to make. We
would love to partner with you and help you figure out if LASIK is the right decision
for you. Schedule your LASIK consultation with us today!
