The Pros & Cons Of Laser Eye Surgery

More than 30 million people worldwide have chosen to have laser eye surgery since the technique was introduced over 30 years ago.

If you’re unfamiliar with laser eye surgery, here are the essential facts:

The technique works by using a laser to adjust the shape of the cornea (the transparent front part of the eye). In the vast majority of cases, the precise operation enables the eye’s focus to improve – resulting in sharper vision.

As technology has advanced, laser eye surgery has become quicker, cheaper and safer. However, as with all medical procedures, there are still some risks to be aware of.

Firstly, though, let’s take a look at the benefits of laser eye surgery.

Top 3 Benefits of Laser Eye Surgery

#1 Freedom from contact lenses and glasses.

As someone who uses both contact lenses and glasses, I know just how inconvenient they can be at times. For example, my glasses often get steamed up or covered in rain drops.

Laser eye surgery can give you the freedom to discard your contact lenses and glasses – and the need to clean and replace them.

You can also expect to save money in the long term, as you’ll no longer need a contact lenses subscription or new glasses. Please note that some people still require glasses for night driving.

#2 New career and activity opportunities.

Some jobs require you to have 20/20 vision without the aid of contact lenses and glasses. In other words, you need perfect vision.

These jobs include: airline pilot, air traffic controller and firefighter. So, if you currently have impaired vision, but have your heart set on one of these career choices, then laser eye surgery may be able to make your dream a reality.

Laser eye surgery will also enable you to take up sports and hobbies that may not have been suitable when wearing glasses. For example, football, rugby and swimming.

#3 Confidence booster.

While some people enjoy wearing glasses, and find them stylish, others aren’t so keen. You may be one of the latter. Perhaps glasses can sometimes make you feel awkward or self-conscious?

Fortunately, laser eye surgery can allow you to take off your glasses for good. You can then feel confident about your looks, and about your eye safety.

And you never know. Your new-found confidence may help you to find a new job – or even attract a new partner!

Top 3 Concerns about Laser Eye Surgery

#1 Changes made to the cornea can only be corrected with additional laser eye surgery.

If you currently suffer from myopia (short-sightedness), then any laser eye surgery that you undergo should last a lifetime. However, this is not guaranteed, as the operation may not be 100% successful, and/or your eyes may change shape.

For hyperopia (long-sightedness), it’s likely that you’ll need follow-up operations due to the natural way the eyes change shape as we age.

So, best-case scenario is that you have one operation that gives you 20/20 vision for the rest of your life. Worst-case scenario, you may need to undergo further treatments to correct or improve your vision.

#2 Discomfit after the operation.

Many people are put off laser eye surgery due to feeling squeamish about the operation. It’s understandable, as our eyes are incredibly sensitive organs. Just think of the last time you got something in your eye!

There’s no point pretending that laser eye surgery won’t result in some discomfit. In fact, it’s normal to experience some or all of the symptoms following surgery: mild pain, itchy eyes, overproduction of tears. However, these symptoms normally clear up within a few days.

#3 Potential side effects.

As with any decision in life, it’s best to be aware of what can go wrong. And this is especially important when it comes to your eyes.

While the vast majority of laser eye surgery procedures are successful, there are potential side effects that you should know about. These include: dry eyes, glare, light-sensitivity, seeing halos and impaired night vision.

Some of these symptoms may clear themselves within a month of the surgery, unfortunately, others may be permanent.

My recommendation is to talk to family members and friends who have undergone the treatment. Ask them straight: “Was the surgery worth it for you?” “Have you had any problems?”

By doing this, you’ll be able to get an honest picture of laser eye surgery.

If you choose to go ahead with the treatment, you’ll be in famous company. Celebrities such as Elton John, Nicole Kidman and Brad Pitt have all benefited from laser eye surgery. However, you don’t need to be earning a celebrities salary to have laser eye treatment.

Currently, prices start from around £1,500 per eye. Many opticians also offer easy payment plans.

Finally, for more information on laser eye surgery, and its suitability for you, please get in touch with your local optician.