LASIK was approved by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration in 1999, with the first trials implemented in the late 1980s. Since then, improvements have made it one of the safest procedures around—but many myths have arisen over time leaving people to ask what are the risks of LASIK? If you’re considering eye surgery, we will debunk these 7 myths about LASIK that you’ve most likely already heard.

1. “LASIK Can Lose Your Eyesight”

Patients are carefully screened before their procedure. Only those who are candidates for eye surgery are approved, which helps avoid complications. There have been no remotely recent reports of any person going blind from LASIK. In fact, most patients experience 20/20 vision after surgery.

2. “LASIK Procedure Hurts”

Numbing eyedrops are provided, so all you may feel is some pressure when the surgeon creates the corneal flap. You might have minor discomfort and irritation for the first couple of days after surgery. If so, artificial tears and over-the-counter pain relievers can be used.

3. “LASIK Has Many Side Effects”

Only a small percentage of patients report more than a mild case of dry eye. It’s often said that LASIK increases the risk of glare and halos, but most people who’ve experienced these before surgery say they go away. Others have reported improvements in their night vision. The fact is complications are extremely rare, so there are few risks of LASIK eye surgery.

4. “LASIK Takes a Long Time to Recover”

LASIK takes just a few minutes and patients usually return to work the next day. Most even notice their vision has improved within the first 24 hours. While you can resume most activities quickly, you’ll need to take post-operative drops and must avoid wearing makeup for a few days, strenuous activity for a week or two, and hot tubs, oceans, lakes, or rivers for two weeks.

5. “LASIK Is Only for Young People”

You should wait until you’re over 18 years old to receive treatment, according to recommendations by most surgeons. However, there’s no upper age limit if your eyes are otherwise healthy.

6. “LASIK Is Expensive”

Considering the average costs of contact lenses and eyeglasses over 10 years, along with doctor visits, LASIK eye surgery can be the more economical choice. You may end up spending more without surgery! At ADV Vision Centers, we offer various ways to pay, including financing options, to make surgery affordable for you.

7. “LASIK Can be Performed by Any Eye Doctor”

Laser eye surgery requires skill and experience. Dr. Adam Abroms, M.D. is a board-certified eye surgeon and ophthalmologist who has performed tens of thousands of vision correction procedures. Dr. Paul J. Dougherty, M.D. was one of the first eye surgeons in the U.S. to have LASIK surgery and was a principal investigator during clinical trials of CATz topography-guided LASIK.

Set Up Your Free LASIK Consultation

Start your path to improved vision at one of our LASIK centers. We’re located in San Luis Obispo, Paso Robles, and Santa Maria, while our surgeons are skilled in the latest technology. To schedule your free consultation with ADV Vision Centers, call 805-987-5300 or request an appointment online.