Because LASIK eye surgery has been around since the 1980s, it is a procedure most people have some knowledge of. Despite its longevity, much misinformation still floats around on the internet. Part of this misinformation may be due to misconceptions about the procedure, despite many recent improvements. We would like to address some of the common myths surrounding LASIK and provide you with the facts.
LASIK Myths
Side Effects Are Permanent. Most people are familiar with the side effects often touted: blurry vision, nighttime glare, dry eyes, and more. These side effects are very real immediately following the surgery, but most disappear within a few months. Chronic vision problems are rare.
The Procedure Is Too New. Some fear that because LASIK is new, the long-term health effects are still undocumented. The first patient in the US was granted in 1989. Germany has had access to this technology since 1982. In the last 33 years, no long-term negative effects have been documented.
The Laser is Automatic (So the Surgeon Does Not Matter). This one is uttered all the time. Despite the technical nature of the surgery, it is absolutely performed by a surgeon and his or her skill is essential. The laser is an essential tool, not a robot that does all the work. Surgeons also needs to create and set corneal flaps during the process.
In addition to the procedure, your surgeon will control pre and post-op. In other words, they will prepare you for the surgery, follow-up on complications, and provide you with the treatment you need until your vision is fully restored.
“He Has Performed 1,500 Procedures!” You have definitely heard this before. A common way surgeons tend to advertise is list the number of successful procedures they have performed. There is something to be said for the doctor who performs the same routine 1,500 times, but it should not be the only way you review potential surgeons. Consult with your eye doctor about recommended surgeons in your area. Look up customer reviews, and do the essential research that could potentially save your eyes.
Everyone Can Get LASIK. Unfortunately, this is untrue. Not everyone can have their eyes corrected. People looking to get LASIK should first be screened by their eye doctor. Anything that could result in serious post-op complications can disqualify patients. This includes cataracts, glaucoma, and other potential health effects.
LASIK Is Still Underdeveloped. The procedure has been around for thirty years. The science behind the techniques used have existed for more than half a century. The truth is, new advancements in LASIK equipment and procedure are less groundbreaking than they are detail-oriented. The surgery is safe and painless. What most advancements do is reduce the number of people rejected for the procedure (by making it safer for more people) and improve treatments for complications.
LASIK Is Not Surgery. A common quote about LASIK is that the procedure is not “real” surgery because you are not being cut open. In the hands of a qualified surgeon, LASIK is not dangerous. However, the procedure still requires a part of you to be cut open and operated on. Patients should still recognize that because it is surgery, complications can still occur.
If you are in need of LASK in Columbus, Ohio, Worthington Opthamology is the place to go. Dont hesitate; contact us today!
Sources:
http://www.allaboutvision.com/mlj/myths.htm
http://www.webmd.com/men/features/10-key-facts-to-know-about-lasik
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