LASIK is the most commonly performed corrective eye surgery in the United States, with over 19 million procedures performed since its FDA approval in 1995. However, despite how prolific this surgery has been, there is still a myriad of myths and misconceptions surrounding the practice. Fortunately, the experts at Northwest Eye Surgeons are here to help. We’ve collected some of the most common myths surrounding LASIK eye surgery to set the record straight.

 

Myth: You can be too old for LASIK- While you can’t be too old for LASIK, there is a kernel of truth to this myth. While many people have gotten LASIK in their 40s, 50s and up even into their 60s, as people age they’re more likely to develop conditions that can affect or potentially negate their candidacy for the procedure. 

 

Myth: Everyone can get LASIK- Unfortunately, not everyone is a potential candidate for LASIK eye surgery. Some factors that affect prospective patients are irregular corneas, eye diseases and poor health problems, which can increase the risk of a negative outcome of the procedure. 

 

Myth: LASIK is painful- This couldn’t be further from the truth. LASIK is a completely painless procedure. Anesthetic drops are dispensed to numb the eye before the process, then over the counter pain relievers such as ibuprofen and acetaminophen 

 

Myth: LASIK is still new, so we still don’t know potential side effects- Contrary to popular belief, LASIK has been around for nearly 50 years. Invented in 1970, it went through rigorous testing by the FDA and was finally approved in 1995. Extensive studies have shown high rates of success and positive results long term. 

 

Myth: LASIK can cause blindness- There has never been a confirmed case of LASIK causing blindness. While serious complications can occur, these cases are extremely rare. Before every procedure, the ophthalmologist will go over in detail the potential risks, side effects and will determine if the patient is a good candidate for LASIK eye surgery. 

 

Myth: LASIK is exclusively used to treat nearsighted patients- While this was true in the early days of LASIK, this is no longer the case. Modern LASIK treatments can correct nearsightedness, farsightedness, and astigmatism. 

 

Myth: LASIK completely removes your need to wear corrective lenses- LASIK is an excellent way to correct your vision, but it doesn’t mean your vision will be perfect forever. Your vision changes over time, which means that at some point you may still need glasses. It’s important to have routine eye exams to keep track of your eye health. 

 

Myth: It can take a long time to recover from LASIK- Except in extremely rare cases, most patients fully recover within 24 hours. You will notice your vision has improved immediately after the procedure is completed

If you’re tired of constantly reaching for your glasses or dealing with contacts, LASIK may be the best solution. At Northwest Eye Surgeons, our experts have performed countless LASIK procedures, and are ready to help you see better. Call today for a laser vision correction consultation!