Hate how you look wearing glasses? Contact lenses uncomfortable or a nuisance? Laser-eye surgeons would love for you to pay several thousand dollars on an operation that promises to fix your eyes for good. These procedures—the most common are LASIK, Epi-LASIK, LASEK, and PRK—are quite safe, but because they’re surgeries there are still risks. Although most people who have had their eyes zapped are happy with their results, there are plenty who are not satisfied or wish they had never done it. And—surprise!—contrary to some advertised claims, it’s not a permanent fix: Most LASIK patients will still someday need glasses.Before committing to LASIK, separate the hype from the facts, carefully choose your surgeon, judge the chances of a successful correction given your vision and other factors, evaluate the risks of post-surgery vision and eye problems, and compare costs.
Laser Eye Surgery Articles
Should You Get LASIK Surgery? What Can Go Wrong?
Ads from LASIK surgery outfits promise that the procedure is “a permanent solution for vision correction.” “Make corrective eyewear a thing of the past.” And “over 98 percent of patients are totally satisfied.” Unfortunately, those claims stretch the truth.
Are You a Good Candidate for LASIK?
LASIK won’t help some types of vision problems, and it’s inappropriate for some people.
How to Find a LASIK Surgeon
Find out how much experience prospective surgeons have. Experience is very important. Meet with surgeons and ask about their success rates with patients with conditions like yours.
How Much Does LASIK Surgery Cost?
Among high-quality surgeons, price is certainly a consideration. Checkbook's undercover shoppers found that costs vary substantially from surgeon to surgeon.
Laser Eye Surgery Options
There are several laser eye surgery options, but LASIK (laser-assisted in situ keratomileusis) surgery is by far the most common method, and for most consumers the best option.