LASIK has emerged as one of the most frequently discussed techniques for overcoming glasses and lens addiction. However, there are numerous myths regarding LASIK eye surgery that persist even though technological advancements have made the procedure safer and less risky.

Being aware of the difference between common facts and misconceptions can help patients make an informed decision prior to an LASIK eye surgery consultation.

Myth 1: LASIK is Very Painful

Fact: Contemporary LASIK is usually conducted under the effect of numbing eye drops; thus, the procedure itself is painless. After surgery, people can experience temporary dryness, watering, irritation, or the feeling of grit in the eyes.

The experience may be different for everyone, and it is always beneficial to discuss any fears in advance with experienced eye laser surgeons.

Myth 2: LASIK is Applicable only for People with Mild Eye Power

Fact: The suitability of LASIK depends not only on refractive power. Corneal thickness, shape of cornea, general health condition of the eye, age, and medical history are some factors that should be taken into account.

It is during the consultation that ophthalmologists conduct necessary examinations to decide on the possible procedure.

Myth #3: LASIK Can Guarantee Perfect Vision

Fact: While LASIK can help decrease dependence on spectacles and contact lenses in those who qualify, it cannot provide perfect vision for all. Individual results can differ.

Changes due to aging might also impact vision in the future. For instance, a patient who undergoes LASIK at a younger age can start wearing reading glasses due to presbyopia.

Myth #4: Every LASIK Procedure Uses Identical Technology

Fact: There are several types of laser eye correction surgeries. Based on individual measurements and needs, an eye doctor can offer a choice between LASIK, customized LASIK surgery, Femto LASIK, PRK and other surgical procedures.

There are technologies like Contoura which offer detailed cornea mapping that may help plan customized procedure for suitable patients.

Myth #5: LASIK Does Not Have Any Risks Associated With It

Fact: While LASIK is a safe procedure if performed on patients who are properly selected, it is a surgery and thus has risks associated with it.

Dry eyes, glare, halos, vision fluctuations, undercorrection, overcorrection and other possible complications might happen to some patients. Comprehensive preoperative examination can help identify factors which can affect the result.

Myth 6: LASIK Healing Process Takes Months

Truth: Although recovery process duration depends on different factors, many patients heal quickly and recover their vision fast. While some patients recover their vision right after treatment, others' eyes may heal and stabilize in several days or even weeks.

It is crucial to follow doctors' advice and attend all scheduled visits in order to properly recover.

Myth 7: LASIK Is the Only Possible Laser Refractive Surgery

Truth: There are several refractive surgeries. In certain cases, an alternative treatment such as PRK might be suggested to the patient.

If a person is not eligible for a procedure on the cornea, the doctor will recommend lens-based treatment such as phakic intraocular lenses or ICL.

Thus, the best type of laser eye surgery can be chosen only considering personal eye conditions rather than the popularity of the treatment itself.

Myth 8: LASIK Cost Is Always the Same

Truth: LASIK treatment cost may vary in accordance with such aspects as technological equipment, surgeons' qualifications, tests, facilities and customization of the procedure.

While researching the LASIK eye surgery cost in India, one should consider what is included in the price offered, rather than going only by the fact that it is the lowest priced surgery.

In addition, the laser eye surgery for vision correction cost in India may vary according to the type of surgery and city.

Myth 9: The Lower the Cost of LASIK Procedure, the Better

Fact: It should not be the only criterion in choosing a procedure for vision correction. Excessively low pricing may not offer the latest technology, diagnostic workup, professional expertise, or aftercare provided by other clinics.

Rather than choosing an option based only on the low cost LASIK surgery, patients should consider the qualification, the technology used, safety, suitability of treatment, and the post-operative care available.

Myth 10: LASIK Is Like Any Other Eye Laser Surgery

Fact: Various laser procedures require different technique and may suit various individuals. For instance, PRK, Femto LASIK, Contoura and others use their own technique and are suitable for particular patients.

Terms like glass remove surgery, eye laser surgery, and laser operation for eyes are casually used terms for vision-correction surgeries.

SMILE Surgery?

SMILE is a contemporary refractive surgical procedure performed through a minimally invasive procedure in order to correct specific refractive errors. The candidacy for the SMILE procedure will depend on such criteria as refractive error, corneal parameters, and general eye health.

If one is trying to find out the SMILE surgery price, he/she should start with the eye examination rather than select the procedure solely according to its price.

PRK Instead of LASIK?

PRK is a procedure of laser vision correction which has some distinctive features as compared to LASIK since they involve different access to the cornea and corneal tissue treatment. There are patients whose conditions do not allow them to perform LASIK procedure.

While looking for the PRK price, it is worth knowing that the cost of the whole treatment may vary depending on the tests and examinations conducted prior to the procedure, technology used, doctor’s experience, and aftercare expenses.

ICL, RLE, CLE?

All laser corneal surgeries are not suitable for all patients. There are certain cases when a patient will be offered procedures involving a lens rather than the cornea.

Therefore, the search for ICL cost, RLE process, or CLE cost should be completed with an expert assessment instead of considering only advertised costs.

What Questions Should You Ask During a LASIK Eye Surgery Consultation?

The consultation is where patients get an opportunity to know more about treatment options. Prior to lasik laser eye surgery, you can talk to your ophthalmologist about:

• Your eligibility for LASIK

• Treatment options

• Visual results

• Side effects and complications

• Recovery period

• Follow-up visits

• Technologies used

• Overall treatment cost

• Other procedures in case you are not eligible for LASIK

An experienced eye doctor will tell you whether LASIK, PRK, Femto LASIK, Contoura, SMILE, or any other procedure based on lenses would suit your case.

Conclusion

The LASIK technologies have greatly evolved over the years, however, knowledge about the procedure itself is as essential as the technology. There are some misconceptions about pain, eligibility, safety, recovery, and cost that lead to confusion.

Whether you are looking into LASIK surgery in Delhi, considering the prices involved in LASIK surgery, or looking at the latest advances like customized LASIK, Contoura, Femto LASIK, or ICL, you need to start by getting an eye examination first with LASIK eye surgery consultation.

Do not make the mistake of going into a certain type of eye surgery simply because of marketing campaigns or prices; instead, get an ophthalmologist to examine your eyes.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Is LASIK eye surgery safe?

LASIK is a safe and effective treatment for vision correction, for the right candidates. An eye exam is essential to establish your candidacy.

2. Does LASIK laser eye surgery hurt?

Since LASIK laser eye surgery is conducted using numbing eye drops, it does not cause much pain to patients. Dryness, irritation or mild discomfort could be felt during the healing period.

3. Who is a candidate for LASIK eye surgery?

Several factors need to be taken into consideration when determining eligibility for LASIK eye surgery like age, eye power, corneal thickness and shape, eye health and others. Your candidacy will be established during the LASIK eye surgery consultation.

4. What is the cost of LASIK eye surgery in India?

The cost of LASIK eye surgery in India varies based on the procedure, technology used, surgeon's experience, diagnostic tests and clinic. A custom quote is usually given after conducting an eye exam.

5. Is low-cost LASIK surgery advisable?

While choosing treatments, cost should not be the only criteria that patients must consider. The patient's choice must be made based on the surgeon's experience, technology, diagnostics, safety and care among others.

6. What is the difference between LASIK, PRK and SMILE surgeries?

Each of these surgeries applies a different approach in correcting refractive errors and it all depends on the patient's eye health status among other things.

7. What is Contoura surgery?

It is a vision correction technology that utilizes topography guided laser procedure that depends on the corneal mapping. It helps to tailor the procedure for patients that are qualified for the treatment.

8. Is Femto LASIK different from regular LASIK?

Femto LASIK uses a femtosecond laser in creating a flap in the cornea and not a mechanical blade. It all depends on the patient's eye health status.

9. What happens if I am not eligible for LASIK?

Those who are not eligible for LASIK should not worry because there are other alternatives to be considered depending on the eye condition of the patient. PRK, SMILE and ICL can be the alternatives to be applied.

10. How can I know what is the best laser eye surgery for my eyes?

The best eye surgery for each individual is not the same. The best thing is to undergo examination by an eye specialist.