Posted by: Carolinas Center for Sight in LASIK Surgery

If you were born after 1999, then you’ve never known life without LASIK. However for the rest of us, this laser surgery was a completely revolutionary idea several decades ago. LASIK, which stands for Laser-Assisted In Situ Keratomileusis, is a procedure that reshapes the cornea and as a result, changes one’s prescription. 

People have gone from needing very thick glasses or strong contacts to enjoying a life correction free after this painless and quick procedure. Although many people are still hesitant to “go under the knife” it’s important to know that LASIK can be completely bladeless with the use of advanced lasers to complete the procedure in a matter of minutes.

Understanding LASIK Success

Individuals who are skeptical about undergoing laser eye surgery often think that there’s a high risk of error during LASIK, but the numbers related to this procedure’s success certainly speak for themselves. Assuming that the surgery is completed by a qualified professional using state of the art technology, 99% of patients achieve vision that’s better than 20/40. For most, 20/40 vision would not require the use of a prescription at all times, and might only necessitate glasses for night driving, as an example. 

Those who are looking for perfection will be pleased to know that 90% of all patients who have had LASIK now have 20/20 vision – or even better! Depending on the success of your surgery, you could potentially end up having eyesight that measures at20/15!

What’s The Risk?

Any elective procedure, whether it’s LASIK or liposuction, comes with an inherent risk, as every surgery will not go as planned every single time. No matter how sophisticated technology becomes, errors can sometimes still occur. However, the rate of complications after LASIK surgery is incredibly low, with less than1% of patients experiencing an infection or issue with their optic nerve.

96% of people who have LASIK express that they are satisfied with their results, a number that’s actually the highest out of any elective procedure out there! Along the same lines, this 96% figure accounts for just how many vision correction procedures are LASIK surgeries compared to other types of surgery.

To date, more than10 million people in the United States have undergone LASIK since it was approved by the FDA in 1999, and by the year 2020, experts predict that each year, 720,000 people will select this safe, fast, and easy option to transform their vision.

Considering Cost

Spending money on a lifetime supply of contact lenses certainly isn’t cheap, and by comparison, undergoing LASIK will actually save patients a great deal of money. A little research might show various costs associated with the procedure, with an average of 44% charging between $2000 and $2500 per eye.

When it comes to an elective procedure, you certainly get what you pay for, so take the time to consider all the factors that go into a successful LASIK experience. Once you’re ready to schedule an initial consultation, contact your ophthalmologist and get ready for clear vision!

See the full infographic here.