Four Reasons To Stop Delaying LASIK Treatment

If you wear glasses or contacts, you've undoubtedly heard of LASIK, the laser-based surgical procedure to correct your vision. But while most people are aware of LASIK, many delay having it performed either because they are afraid or side effects or are unaware just how many benefits it offers for patients. If you're delaying having LASIK treatment, make today the day you finally move forward and make an appointment for an evaluation. Here are four reasons why it's time to stop delaying:

Serious side effects are very rare.

LASIK is far safer than most people realize, and it becomes safer and safer each year as the technology is improved. It's true that many patients experience side effects, but these side effects are minor -- like eye dryness that can be managed with eye drops and a slight glare when staring at lights at night. Aren't dry eyes or a glare better than being unable to see without glasses? Serious side effects like infection and flap complications rarely occur and their risk can be greatly minimized if you follow your eye doctor's aftercare instructions closely. 

You'll see clearly the next day.

There are other laser-based surgical procedures from which it takes longer to heal. However, most patients who undergo LASIK are able to see clearly the very next day! You can drive yourself to your next-day checkup without glasses or contacts. This means you won't have to take much time off from work to get LASIK. You'll still have to be careful with your eyes, wearing goggles to bed and avoiding rubbing them in the shower, for another week or two -- but the visual improvement happens very quickly.

You'll save money on glasses and contacts.

LASIK may seem expensive, but consider how much you are paying for glasses or contact lenses. Those costs add up over your lifetime, so the sooner you get LASIK, the more you will save. If you are struggling to afford LASIK, ask your eye doctor about financing options, or see if they can petition your health insurance company to get all or part of the cost covered. 

LASIK has a long track record of success.

While modifying your eyes with lasers sounds like a new and innovative procedure, this type of procedure was actually developed in the 1980s. LASIK itself was approved by the FDA in 2002. Since that time, the technology has only improved, giving the procedure a long history of success. 

If you're considering getting LASIK, don't let the fear of side effects and costs deter you. Talk to an eye surgeon in your area to learn more.