10 LASIK Myths Busted
Published by on November 3, 2015
Do you know the truth when you see it? There’s no need to deal with the hassles of glasses and contact lenses anymore. With today’s technological advancements you can experience the world without barriers. At Kugler Vision in Omaha, we’re thrilled that Millennials are reporting in record numbers that they plan to have LASIK. When considering LASIK, we want you to know your facts. Below, the 10 most common LASIK myths have been busted! See the science behind the facts. How many of these have you heard in the past?
Myth 1 “The results of LASIK wear off over time”
Fact: LASIK does NOT wear off! Though the effects of laser vision correction last a lifetime, LASIK does not prevent the onset of age-related eye conditions. LASIK works to correct your vision by reshaping the cornea, the outer layer of the eye. After LASIK, distance vision has been permanently corrected. A small percentage of people (less than 3%), may have some change in their prescription through their 20s, but this is not the norm. However, as we enter our 40s, the natural lens inside our eye changes. This is called Dysfunctional Lens Syndrome. These lens changes affect our near vision, making it difficult to focus on type and objects up close. We offer solutions like the KAMRA inlay and Dysfunctional Lens Replacement to allow you to see up close again, and to reduce or even eliminate dependency on reading glasses and bifocals.
Myth 2 “I have astigmatism, so I can’t have LASIK”
Fact: Although this misconception was true when LASIK technology was in its infancy, it is no longer the case! Modern laser systems can effectively treat astigmatism with excellent results. At Kugler Vision, we specialize in astigmatism and use Vector Analysis to ensure that astigmatism treatment is effective.
Myth 3 “LASIK is painful and has a long recovery time”
Fact: LASIK is generally painless! You will feel a few moments of pressure, but the entire procedure is over quickly. Numbing drops are used to prevent discomfort. Afterward, your eyes may burn or itch for a short time, but a mild pain reliever and eye drops give relief. Most people can drive and go back to work the very next day!
Myth 4 “LASIK has a high risk of complications and side effects”
Fact: Clinical studies of LASIK have shown that the risk of serious complication is extremely low, less than 1%! In fact, you are 180 times more likely to have a serious infection while wearing contacts than after LASIK! While glare and dry eyes can be common side effects right after surgery, these typically subside within a few months.
Myth 5 “LASIK is too new to know the long term effects. The technology is still in development!”
Fact: LASIK has been performed successfully for over 20 years! Since the early 80’s, over 30 million people have had LASIK worldwide. Countless studies have confirmed its safety and success. LASIK’s satisfaction rate is the highest of any medical procedure– over 97%! Technology will always continue to advance, but today’s is so good that there is no need to wait. There has never been a better time to invest in LASIK than now.
Myth 6 “I’m too young for LASIK. My prescription isn’t stable yet.”
Fact: If you are at least 18 years old, your eyes are most likely done developing. The majority of people reach prescription stability between the ages of 18 and 21. The best thing to do is to schedule your consultation with the experts at Kugler Vision to find out if you’re a candidate.
Myth 7 “All LASIK is the same. Just get the cheapest”
Fact: When considering something as crucial as your vision, never compromise your health by settling for a discount center. Seeking a recommended and reputable surgeon, like Lance Kugler, MD, is worth the investment. Cheaper clinics may not keep up with the latest technology, patient screening, or follow up care.
Myth 8 “Anyone who wants to have LASIK is a candidate”
Fact: While today’s technology has made LASIK more inclusive than ever before, not all people are LASIK candidates. To ensure safety and the very best post-LASIK outcomes, patients’ eyes are thoroughly analyzed to determine if they are ideal candidates. The great news is that even if you aren’t a LASIK candidate another solution, like ASA or ICL, will yield the same great results and may be right for you! Take our quick, simple online quiz to find out if you’re a candidate or call 402.558.2211 to schedule your consultation.
Myth 9 “All lasers used for LASIK are basically the same”
Fact: There are a variety of lasers that can be used for LASIK and they are not all equal! Some clinics use dated technology, or don’t even have their own laser! Kugler Vision focuses on implementing the newest tools for optimal vision correction results. We use only the most state-of-the-art and up-to-date technology!
Myth 10 “The laser does all the work. It doesn’t matter what doctor I get!”
Fact: Your surgeon’s application of skill and level of expertise matters! Laser systems are sophisticated, needing proper programming to deliver customized treatment. A surgeon’s level of expertise and care before, during, and after surgery are critical to success. Learn more about Lance Kugler, MD’s specialized and intensive training.
The Sooner You Have LASIK, The Sooner You Reap the Benefits
Now that your questions have been answered and you have a clear idea the truth about LASIK, let’s discuss the benefits.
LASIK
- gives you freedom from the hassles of glasses and contacts.
- gives you an improved lifestyle– just get up and go at a moment’s notice!
- saves time.
- saves you thousands of dollars by ending the never ending cycle of buying glasses and contacts.
- is safer than contacts.
It’s Your Time
Want to know more about this life-changing procedure? To contact us, please call or text 402.558.2211 for your questions answered or to schedule a consultation.
Lance Kugler, MD, is a specialist in LASIK and vision correction surgery and CEO of Kugler Vision. A proud Omaha native, he is passionate about improving lives through clear vision. Dr. Kugler serves on several national boards, and his practice is recognized internationally as a center of excellence. Dr. Kugler is one of the original founders of the Refractive Surgery Alliance, an international organization comprised of over 350 of the world’s leading vision correction surgeons; he also served as its first president. In 2019, Dr. Kugler was selected as a TEDx speaker, and delivered a talk in Omaha about the worldwide epidemic of nearsightedness and refractive solutions. Dr. Kugler is an Associate Professor of Refractive Surgery at the University of Nebraska Medical Center’s Truhlsen Eye Institute, has been published in many medical journals, and participates in numerous clinical studies to advance the field of vision correction surgery. Additionally, Dr. Kugler is proud to be a Board Certified Fellow of the World College of Refractive Surgery & Visual Sciences. Dr. Kugler and his wife are proud parents to five active kids. When he has a spare moment, he enjoys skiing, tennis, travel, and fine coffee.
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