Modern technology has made it possible to quite literally reverse the effects of aging. This phenomenon is seen throughout medicine, and it’s especially the case when it comes to vision enhancement.
Lasik eye surgery—also referred to laser vision correction—is experiencing a kind of renaissance as more and more people are improving the quality of their vision through a simple, short procedure that can be done in a doctor’s office. There are some very compelling reasons why those with vision problems might want to consider Lasik, but the procedure is not without its risks and downsides.
In this article, we’re going to be taking a closer look (no pun intended) at the full list of pros and cons that are associated with Lasik eye surgery. Remember that not everyone is a perfect fit for Lasik, so please supplement what you’re reading here with input from a qualified medical professional.
What Exactly Is Lasik?
The term ‘Lasik’ comes from the term “Laser-Assisted In Situ Keratomileusis”. That’s a complicated way of describing the Lasik procedure itself, which involves the use of a laser to reshape the cornea of the eye.
By and large, Lasik is remarkably safe. And, it’s been around for a long time. In fact, in 2006, the British National Health Service evaluated evidence for and against the safety of Lasik and found that, in their words, Lasik is safe and effective for use in appropriately selected patients.
Over the past 20 or so years, the Lasik procedure has been even further refined through the addition of advanced equipment that is engineered for the specific purpose of assisting with this procedure. Even still, there can be complications that are important to discuss with your doctor before proceeding.
The Pros
Let’s move on to the many pros that are associated with Lasik. They include:
- Lasik is very quick. It’s not uncommon for many Lasik procedures to take less than half an hour to complete. And, because virtually all Lasik procedures our ‘outpatient’ procedures, there is no hospital stay required and recovery can be done at home. Speaking of recovery…
- Recovery is very short. In most cases, Lasik patients can return to work and normal activities within a 48-hour period.
- Results are immediate.Most Lasik patients are able to enjoy their newly improved vision within just 24 hours of the procedure having been performed. It’s even possible to restore poor vision to full, 20/20 vision, all within the same 1- or 2-day period.
- Lasik can eliminate the need for contacts or eyeglasses. Whether you suffer from nearsightedness, farsightedness, or even astigmatism, Lasik vision correction can completely remove your need to wear contacts or eyeglasses every day.
- Most Lasik surgery centers offer financing that makes the procedure affordable. Worried about how you’re going to pay for Lasik? Often, the medical team supporting the Ophthalmologist will be able to set you up with zero- or no-interest financing.
Before you rush out to make your appointment with the Lasik center nearest you, take a moment to consider the cons that can come with having this procedure done.
The Cons
No medical procedure is without its risks and downsides. For Lasik, they include:
- Lasik isn’t for everyone. For those over 40 years of age or who are afflicted with presbyopia, Lasik may not be an alternative. There are also other health factors that can disqualify some from Lasik, many of which are quite common.
- Lasik may result in increased sensitivity to light or vision aberrations that may not resolve over time. Some Lasik patients report chronic dry eye or ‘haloed’ vision, although these side effects can often clear up over time. Some, however, do not.
- The Lasik procedure may need to be conducted again in the future. As we age, the cornea of our eyes will slowly degrade, even if we’ve had Lasik in the past. And so, it may need to be done again at some point in the future.
- Lasik-modified corneas can be injured. The ‘flap’ that is created by many Lasik procedures can become dislodged due to trauma. For this reason, Lasik patients are urged not to rub their eyes post-procedure.
All in all, Lasik is an excellent option to consider for those looking for a quick, safe way to improve their vision. To learn more about the procedure, contact the Lasik professionals at www.Dishler.com for more information.
[Note: The information contained herein should not be treated as medical advice. The Lasik eye surgery professionals at www.Dishler.com are available to consult with you directly regarding your unique vision situation.]
