Weighing The Benefits Of Lasik Over Eyeglasses

Health & Medical Blog

If you're like most potential Lasik patients, you've been wearing eyeglasses or contact lenses for many years and have probably grown tired of the hassle and expense of maintaining and wearing them. You may have even thought about getting Lasik surgery to correct your vision once and for all. Here's all the information you need to weigh the pros and cons of Lasik surgery vs. eyeglasses.

There are many factors to consider when deciding whether to get Lasik surgery or stick with eyeglasses, including:

• 20/20 vision. The Mayo Clinic states that most people who get Lasik surgery end up with 20/20 vision or better. They warn, however, that it is common to "still eventually need glasses for driving at night or reading as they get older." That means no more dealing with blurry vision, halos around lights, or squinting to see things clearly. 
• Quick and painless. Most people who get Lasik surgery say it is only mildly uncomfortable. The numbing drops that are used during the procedure help to minimize any discomfort that you may feel. Additionally, the entire procedure usually only takes a few minutes per eye. That means you can have the surgery done on your lunch break.
• No more glasses. Anyone who has ever needed their glasses in order to find their glasses understands the frustration of not being able to see clearly without help. Lasik eliminates that dependency.
• Cost. In most cases, Lasik is considered elective surgery. Therefore, health insurance plans typically do not cover the cost.

There are patients, however, that are not good candidates for Lasik, including:

• Pregnant. People who are pregnant are not good candidates for Lasik because their bodies undergo so many changes. However, once they have given birth and their hormones have stabilized, you can consider getting Lasik surgery.
• 18 years old. The law requires that Lasik patients be at least 18 years old or older. The age requirement was instituted by the Federal Drug Administration, which states that "no lasers are approved for LASIK on persons under the age of 18." This is because their eyes and vision are simply not fully developed yet.

Additionally, it should be noted that some pilots and military personnel are prohibited from having Lasik surgery due to their career requirements.

Deciding whether or not to get Lasik surgery is a big decision that should not be taken lightly. Be sure to do your research and consult with your doctor before making any decisions about Lasik or any other eye surgery. 

Share

3 October 2022