The thought of having a laser pointed at your eye can make LASIK seem like a scary procedure for many people. The reality is, laser eye surgery is an easy and FDA-approved procedure offering millions the possibility of reducing or eliminating their dependence on glasses and contact lenses. However, myths and misconceptions continue to surround this life-changing procedure. We aim to dispel common LASIK myths with accurate, research-backed information so you can make an informed decision about your vision.
1. Myth: LASIK recovery time is lengthy and extensive
Fact: LASIK is a quick, safe, and minimally invasive procedure, typically taking just 15 minutes. Most patients resume normal activities within 24 hours. Following your surgeon’s post-op care instructions ensures optimal healing and results.
2. Myth: LASIK is Painful
A common misconception is that LASIK is painful.
Fact: In reality, the procedure itself is not painful due to the use of numbing eye drops that fully anesthetize the eye. Patients may feel mild pressure during the surgery, but it is generally well-tolerated.
After the procedure, some individuals experience temporary discomfort, such as a gritty sensation or mild irritation. These side effects will go away in a few hours after taking a short nap and can be alleviated with lubricating eye drops after.
3. Myth: LASIK Can Correct All Vision Problems
Fact: LASIK primarily corrects refractive errors including
- nearsightedness
- farsightedness
- astigmatism
However, LASIK does not treat conditions like:
- presbyopia—the gradual loss of near vision—it can be adapted to help manage its effects.
- Cataracts, glaucoma, or macular degeneration
For presbyopia, some patients opt for monovision LASIK, where one eye is optimized for near vision and the other for distance vision.
4. Myth: LASIK Results Are Not Permanent
Fact: LASIK provides long-lasting vision correction, but natural changes in vision, such as presbyopia (age-related near vision loss), can still occur over time. While it is true that many LASIK patients do achieve 20/20 vision or better without glasses or contacts, you may become reliant on glasses as you get older. As we age, the eye continues to change.
- According to Dr. Vicente Diaz, M.D., an ophthalmologist at Yale School of Medicine, the effects of LASIK on distance vision are permanent for most patients.
- However, as people age, some may develop the need for reading glasses or, in rare cases, a LASIK enhancement.
For those concerned about future changes in vision, many LASIK providers offer lifetime enhancement plans, ensuring long-term satisfaction and affordability
5. Myth: Lasers used during LASIK can cut through your eye
Fact: Modern LASIK is entirely bladeless: The procedure relies on advanced laser technology, including:
- Femtosecond lasers for flap creation
- Wavefront-guided laser treatments for precision
- Custom corneal mapping for personalized corrections
- Real-time eye-tracking systems to enhance accuracy
These innovations ensure a highly precise and minimally invasive procedure.
6. Myth: LASIK Causes Dry Eyes
Fact: Some patients experience temporary dryness after LASIK, but it is usually mild and resolve within a few months. In addition, despite meticulous care, some patients may experience side effects. However, serious complications are extremely rare, and the risk of long-term dryness is low.
- Dry Eyes: A common temporary side effect; managed with lubricating eye drops.
- Visual Disturbances: Symptoms like glare or halos typically resolve over time; if persistent, consult the surgeon for possible interventions.
- Infections: Though rare, infections require prompt medical attention and are treated with appropriate antibiotics.
7. Myth: LASIK is Too Expensive
Fact: The cost of LASIK Eye Surgery in the United States ranges from $1,500 – $5,000 per eye according to Market Scope’s most recent US Ophthalmologist Survey. In most cases, patients can expect to pay between $1,500 -$2,600, but many patients pay less with insurance, HSA/FSA, or special financing. Find out what discounts you qualify for and how to make LASIK fit your budget.
By debunking these common myths, we hope to provide clarity on LASIK’s safety, effectiveness, and affordability. Understanding the facts empowers you to make informed decisions about your vision correction options.
At The LASIK Vision Institute, we are dedicated to providing accurate and transparent information about LASIK. Schedule a consultation with our expert team to explore whether LASIK is the right choice for you.
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Resources:
Joffe SN. The 25th Anniversary of Laser Vision Correction in the United States. Clin Ophthalmol. 2021 Mar 17;15:1163-1172. doi: 10.2147/OPTH.S299752. PMID: 33762815; PMCID: PMC7982707.
American Academy of Ophthalmology. (Boyd, K. 2024). LASIK — Laser Eye Surgery. Retrieved from https://www.aao.org/eye-health/treatments/lasik#:~:text=LASIK%20is%20used%20to%20treat,to%20do%20without%20them%20completely.
American Refractive Surgery Council. (2017). What is the success rate of LASIK? Retrieved from: https://americanrefractivesurgerycouncil.org/laser-eye-surgery-lasik-success-rate/#
Cureus. (2022). A Review of Contact Lens-Related Risk Factors and Complications.
Retrieved from: https://www.cureus.com/articles/110821-a-review-of-contact-lens-related-risk-factors-and-complications#!/
Food & Drug Administration(2021). LASIK Quality of Life Collaboration Project. Retrieved from https://www.fda.gov/medical-devices/lasik/lasik-quality-life-collaboration-project
Forbes. Eye Health. (DeBroff, B, Suzanne, L 2024). How Much Does LASIK Eye Surgery Cost In 2025? Retrieved from https://www.forbes.com/health/eye-health/how-much-does-lasik-cost/
Forbes. Eye Health. (Alcido, M, DeBroff, B, Suzanne, L 2024). LASIK Eye Surgery: Benefits, Risks And Side Effects. Retrieved from https://www.forbes.com/health/eye-health/lasik-laser-eye-surgery/
LASIK.com. (Dr, January, B. Dr. Dinga, R. 2024). What is Modern LASIK? Retrieved from https://www.lasik.com/what-is-modern-lasik/
Market Scope. (Jones, C. 2022). As reported by Market Scope’s Q3-2022 US Ophthalmologist Surgery Market Report. ‘2022 Refractive Surgery Market Report: Global Analysis for 2021 to 2027. Ophthalmic Comprehensive Reports [Preprint]: https://www.lasik.com/how-much-does-lasik-cost/#:~:text=Exceptional%2C%20modern%20LASIK%20Eye%20Surgery,most%20recent%20US%20Ophthalmologist%20Survey.
Mayo Clinic. (n.d.). LASIK eye surgery. Retrieved from https://www.mayoclinic.org/tests-procedures/lasik-eye-surgery/about/pac-20384774?
Optometry Times Journal. (2021). How to prevent infection after LASIK or PRK. Retrieved from https://www.optometrytimes.com/view/how-to-prevent-infection-after-lasik-or-prk
Refractive Surgery Council. (n.d). What is LASIK Eye Surgery? Retrieved from https://americanrefractivesurgerycouncil.org/lasik/#:~:text=Right%20for%20Me%3F-,What%20is%20LASIK%20Eye%20Surgery%3F,procedures%20have%20been%20performed%20worldwide.
Disclaimer: This information is for general knowledge and informational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. Consult with a qualified healthcare professional for diagnosis and treatment of any medical conditions.
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