Over the past 25 years, LASIK has been a game-changer for millions, offering clearer vision and reducing the need for glasses or contact lenses. However, despite its widespread success, several misconceptions continue to surround this procedure. Here, we’ll clarify some of the most common myths associated with LASIK surgery.
Myth 1: LASIK Is Too Expensive
One of the most persistent misconceptions about LASIK is its cost. While the initial expense may seem steep, it's essential to see it as an investment in your long-term eye health. On average, LASIK costs about $5,264 for both eyes. However, when considering the ongoing yearly costs of eye care—such as exams, glasses, contact lenses, and cleaning solutions, which can add up to around $1,000—LASIK can actually pay for itself within a few years.
Myth 2: LASIK Is Unsafe
Safety concerns often prevent people from considering LASIK. But the reality is, LASIK is one of the safest elective surgeries available today. Since its FDA approval, nearly 15 million people have undergone the procedure. Most patients—around 90%—achieve 20/20 vision or better, and about 95% are satisfied with their results. Continuous improvements in technology have only enhanced LASIK’s safety and precision. According to this article by the American Academy of Opthalmology, a 10-year study found LASIK to be both safe and effective.
Myth 3: LASIK Is Painful
A common misconception is that LASIK is a painful procedure. In truth, it’s relatively painless for the majority of patients. Numbing eye drops are applied before the procedure, ensuring that any discomfort is minimal. Patients might feel slight pressure, but this is brief. After the surgery, some may experience mild symptoms like dryness or light sensitivity, but these typically subside within a few days.
Myth 4: The Recovery Process Is Too Long
Another myth is that LASIK recovery takes too much time. In reality, the surgery itself takes just 15 minutes for both eyes. Including pre-op and post-op exams, patients spend only 1.5 to 2 hours at the clinic. Recovery is also quick, with most patients experiencing full recovery within 12 hours. Many even achieve 20/20 vision or better within a day, allowing them to return to normal activities, including work, in just a couple of days.
Myth 5: LASIK Can’t Treat Astigmatism
A common misunderstanding is that LASIK is only suitable for nearsightedness or farsightedness, but it also effectively corrects astigmatism. By reshaping the cornea, LASIK can treat various refractive errors, including astigmatism, providing clearer vision across the board.
Myth 6: All LASIK Procedures Are the Same
Not all LASIK procedures are identical. Different providers use different technologies and treatment approaches, which can significantly impact the results. More advanced systems, such as iDESIGN Refractive Studio®, take thousands of measurements to customize the procedure for each individual’s eyes. This level of personalization often leads to more precise and consistent outcomes. Check out our LASIK FAQs for more details about what to expect.
Myth 7: Insurance Doesn’t Cover LASIK
While it’s true that most insurance plans do not fully cover LASIK, some may offer partial coverage or discounts. Furthermore, many people use a Flexible Spending Account (FSA) or Health Savings Account (HSA) to help cover the cost, making the procedure more affordable.
Myth 8: LASIK Results Are Temporary
Another misconception is that LASIK results won’t last. LASIK reshapes the cornea to correct vision issues like nearsightedness, farsightedness, and astigmatism permanently. While age-related changes like presbyopia may occur later in life, LASIK results are generally long-lasting, with many patients enjoying improved vision for decades.
The Bottom Line
LASIK is a highly effective and life-changing procedure for millions of people, offering long-term vision correction and freedom from glasses or contacts. If you're considering LASIK, it’s important to speak with a qualified professional to determine if it’s the right option for your unique vision needs.