LASIK is one of the most widely studied elective procedures in the world and has one of the highest rates of patient satisfaction. LASIK has a rich history of producing life-changing results – but in today’s online environment, it’s easy to be influenced by misinformation when deciding to undergo laser eye surgery. The best way to get reliable information about LASIK is by consulting a knowledgeable ophthalmologist and laser eye surgeon, such as our team here at Boston Vision serving the greater Boston area. Here are some of the top myths we encounter and the truth behind them.
Myth: LASIK Surgeons Would Never Have LASIK Themselves
It’s a common myth to think that LASIK surgeons wouldn’t endorse the procedure for their own eyes. This is not the case! Our team regularly performs LASIK on other physicians as well as our friends and family members. You may find that LASIK surgeons are more likely to have undergone the procedure themselves, which is why they continue to help patients achieve long-term vision correction.
Myth: LASIK is Riskier Than Contact Lenses
You may think that because LASIK is a type of surgery, it inherently carries a higher amount of risk. However, LASIK is one of the most advanced surgical procedures available and carries about the same amount of risk as the long-term use of contact lenses. Thanks to recent developments in LASIK technology, your risk of vision loss with LASIK is exceptionally low, especially when you select a reputable and state-of-the-art provider.
Myth: LASIK Causes Dry Eye, Halos, and Glare
This myth has some basis in fact, which is that older LASIK technologies were less refined and could, in some cases, cause halos and glare. With providers who remain up-to-date on LASIK technologies, however, your risk of halos or glare after LASIK is significantly low. Some evidence suggests that LASIK could improve halos and glare in patients who experience them pre-surgery. As for dry eye, patients who do experience dry eye symptoms tend to see improvement within a few months. LASIK surgeons are also now much more selective about candidacy and don’t recommend LASIK for patients with existing dry eye for this reason.
Myth: LASIK is the Same as It Has Always Been
Although LASIK has been used for decades, it doesn’t mean it’s the same procedure it was in the beginning. LASIK has only gotten better as new technologies become available. Not only is LASIK more effective and less risky than it was, but it’s far safer and quicker. Nowadays, LASIK relies almost entirely on computerized calculations and programming, making it precise and efficient. This is one of the many reasons it remains so popular from year to year!
Schedule a LASIK Consultation
At Boston LASIK, our team is happy to help you learn more about LASIK and answer your questions. To get started, take our LASIK self-test and schedule an appointment today at our greater Boston area locations.
