Pros and Cons of Laser Eye Surgery

Hi everyone,

I’ve been thinking about having laser eye surgery the last few weeks and have been looking into this and weighting it up. I’m still unsure if I’m honest but have decided to highlight in blog for you some information and guidance I have got of people and see what feedback I get.

Pros and Cons of Laser Eye Surgery

As the technology and techniques involved in correcting visual impairments with the use of lasers develops, an increasing number of people are exploring the possibilities of undergoing the procedure themselves. However, there is still a great deal of misunderstanding surrounding the treatment, despite companies such asOptimax offering free suitability assessments and information.

If you’re in two minds about the procedure, then this concise guide to the pros and cons of laser eye surgery aims give potential patients a better understanding of exactly what is involved.

Pro: improved eyesight

 The obvious benefit of laser eye surgery is the tremendous improvement it has on your quality of vision and the fact that glasses or contacts are no longer needed. Anyone who is forced to wear glasses or contacts on a regular basis understands how much they affect everyday life and place limitations on certain activities. The freedom afforded by laser eye surgery is the one advantage that really makes the difference. 

Pro: painless procedure

Laser eye surgery has come a long way since its early days in the 1990s and is now a largely painless procedure. No needles or injections are required for the operation as eye drops used to numb the eye. Eye drops may cause a slight stinging sensation for 10 to 20 seconds, but this quickly passes.

Pro: instantaneous results

Unlike previous types of laser eye surgery, most modern procedures have near instantaneous effects and a relatively short healing period. This means the surgery itself won’t impact your regular life and you’ll be able to enjoy the benefits almost immediately. Usually taking no more than an hour to complete, the procedure is one of the shortest and easiest you’ll ever experience.

Pro: high success rate

Studies by respected eye specialists, namely the American Society of Cataract and Refractive Surgery (ASCRS) and the Joint LASIK Study Task Force, have revealed that an incredible 95.4 per cent of those that undergo the procedure are satisfied by its results. With such a high approval rate, it’s no wonder the procedure is becoming more popular.

Con: health risks

 While there seem to be few drawbacks to those that feel they require the treatment, it is always important to be aware of the risks. In a very small minority of cases, there can be complications and that can lead to a change in patients’ eyesight or even deterioration.

However, as long as a proper suitability assessment is made and patients understand the procedure, what it involves and its consequences, the risk of complications is very low.

So let me Know what you think?

Thanks,