For many people, the looming fear of a laser penetrating their eyeball deters them from learning more about the LASIK process. Before you are quick to dismiss LASIK as a viable option to correct your vision, let’s discuss the pros and cons of LASIK versus glasses. To catch up on the latest LASIK technology, visit our blog here WEBSITE. 

When exploring vision correction options, LASIK surgery and glasses offer distinct advantages and considerations. LASIK provides a long-term solution by reshaping the cornea to correct refractive errors, often eliminating the need for glasses or contacts. On the other hand, glasses offer a non-invasive, adjustable and easily reversible method for correcting vision, making them a versatile and low-risk choice for many individuals.

LASIK:

Pros:

• High Success Rate: Most patients achieve 20/20 vision or better after LASIK.
• Permanent Correction: Provides long-lasting results, significantly reducing or eliminating the need for glasses or contact lenses.
• No Daily Maintenance: Eliminates the need for daily cleaning and maintenance of glasses or contact lenses.
• Enhanced Quality of Life: Facilitates activities such as swimming, sports and other physical activities without the hassle of corrective lenses.
• Immediate Results: Most patients notice improved vision within 24 hours of the procedure.

Cons:

• Fear of Eye Surgery: The thought of undergoing surgery on one of the most sensitive and vital organs can be daunting. Patients are awake during the procedure, which can cause anxiety. Seeing or hearing surgical instruments and the laser can be unnerving.
• Invasiveness: Even though LASIK is minimally invasive, it still involves cutting a flap in the cornea, which can be unsettling for many.
• Side Effects: There are potential side effects such as dry eyes, glare, halos and night vision problems.
• Surgical Risks: Although rare, there are risks of complications like infection, under- or over-correction or flap issues.
• Permanent Changes: The procedure permanently alters the cornea so any negative outcomes cannot be easily reversed.
• High Upfront Cost: The significant financial investment can add stress, especially if there are worries about the outcome.

Glasses:

Pros:

• Non-Invasive: No surgery required, making it a low-risk option for vision correction.
• Protection: Glasses provide an extra layer of protection to the eyes against environmental factors as well as blue light emissions from screens. 
• Adjustable: Not only can prescriptions be adjusted over time, but enjoying the changing color and style options of frames can cater to one’s personality and enjoyment by changing their appearance. 
• Suitability: Not everyone is a candidate for LASIK, specifically those with thin corneas. Glasses are a great option for those who do not meet surgery eligibility.
• Cost-Effective: Initial costs for glasses are typically lower than LASIK surgery and ongoing maintenance costs are predictable and manageable.

Cons:

• Convenience: Glasses can fog, smudge, scratch and break. Replacement costs and constant cleaning can be burdensome. 
• Lifestyle Limitations: Physical activities including water sports can become frustrating as glasses are not adaptable to these types of situations. 
• Reflections and Glare: Reflections on lenses and glare from artificial lighting or sunlight can be distracting and affect visual comfort.
• Aesthetic Concerns: Not everyone loves the way they look in glasses. Even though glasses wearing has become fashionable and there is less of a stigma than in the past, terms like “four eyes” and taunts like “boys won’t make passes at girls who wear glasses” are still a part of stereotypes that promote insecurity.
• Peripheral Vision Issues: Glasses can limit peripheral vision and cause visual distortions.

Choosing between LASIK surgery and glasses involves weighing the benefits and drawbacks of each option. LASIK offers a more permanent solution with greater convenience but comes with higher costs and surgical risks. Glasses, while non-invasive and adjustable, require ongoing maintenance and can pose lifestyle limitations. Consulting with an eye care professional can help determine the best option based on individual needs and circumstances. To learn more, call The Eye Clinic Surgicenter at 208-524-2025.