5 Myths Debunked – LASIK and PRK Treatment

Why would someone elect to have laser vision correction [LASIK]? The answer is usually to improve their quality of life in a quick, cost effective manner. Common misconceptions should not be the reason you miss out on this lifechanging opportunity!

Myth: I am too young/old for LASIK.

FALSE. The only age restriction related to LASIK/PRK is that our surgeons recommend waiting until you’re over the age of 18 for treatment. There is no upper-age restriction for LASIK/PRK surgeries. There are plenty of people in their 40’s, 50’s and 60’s who have healthy eyes and are perfect candidates for LASIK. With that being said, there is a correlation between age and LASIK candidacy. As you get older, your eyes are more at risk for a number of conditions that can prevent you from having LASIK/PRK. Macular degeneration, cataracts and glaucoma are three such age-related eye conditions.

Myth: LASIK is a painful eye surgery.

FALSE. The reality is that LAS​IK/PRK are quick and essentially little to no pain treatments. A series of numbing drops are applied to the operating eye(s) before treatment to limit any discomfort. The patient may experience a brief moment of pressure when the corneal flap is created (LASIK) or the thinnest layer of the corneal tissue is removed (PRK), but that’s it. Most patients are surprised at just how quick and unnoticeable the procedure actually is.

Myth: The effects of LASIK/PRK only last a few years.

​FALSE. The vast majority of LASIK/PRK treatments provide permanent refractive correction. In the rare occasions that any, nearsightedness, farsightedness, or astigmatism returns after LASIK/PRK, we do offer an enhancement surgery to offset any significant regression. Patients are still at the risk of age-related vision changes such as developing cataracts or macular degeneration, but the refractive correction achieved with LASIK/PRK provides long-lasting results seen to last 20 plus years.

Myths: Recovery time for LASIK/PRK is extremely long.

FALSE. Most patients are able to notice a change in their vision almost immediately after their procedure. Patient can expect to experience some normal symptoms after their procedure that will diminish in 3-5 days, and a fluctuation of the vision for about 2 weeks after. Most patients will be able to return to work three to five days after surgery.

Myths: LASIK/PRK treatments are expensive.

FALSE. Compared to the average cost of glasses/contacts per year, for the rest of your life, LASIK and PRK treatments provide a huge cost savings! Marietta Eye Clinic also offers various payment options to ensure that price is not a deterrent for patients who choose to elect this life changing treatment option.

Learn more about our PRK and LASIK surgeons