The Top 6 Reasons People Delay LASIK (And What Finally Changed Their Minds)
Published by on May 12, 2025
At Kugler Vision, we talk to a lot of people who say the same thing: they wish they’d had LASIK sooner. Despite the benefits, many hold off for years because of common concerns that feel hard to ignore. In this article, we’re breaking down the top reasons people delay LASIK—and what finally pushed them to take the next step. If you’ve been on the fence, you’re not alone. Schedule a consultation with Kugler Vision to find out if LASIK is right for you.
6 Reasons People Delay LASIK
At Kugler Vision, we often hear from patients who waited months—or even years—before finally deciding to have LASIK. While their reasons vary, most fall into a few common categories. Understanding these concerns is the first step toward moving past them and making an informed decision. Below are the six most common reasons people delay LASIK—and what ultimately helped them move forward.
- Fear and Anxiety
Many people delay LASIK because they feel uneasy about having eye surgery or fear medical procedures in general. Even those who schedule consultations sometimes come close to canceling. At Kugler Vision, we recognize that fear is real, and we take time to walk each patient through what to expect. Often, hearing positive stories from friends or feeling supported by our team helps patients push past the anxiety. - Cost Concerns
The upfront cost of LASIK leads some to hold off, thinking it’s out of reach financially. But over time, many realize they’ve spent thousands on glasses, contacts, and eye exams—often more than the one-time cost of LASIK. When patients compare the long-term expenses, they often see LASIK as a smart financial decision. Kugler Vision also offers flexible payment options to make it more manageable. - Medical Eligibility
Not everyone is immediately a good candidate for LASIK. Some patients have unstable vision, thin corneas, are pregnant, or have other medical issues like autoimmune conditions. In these cases, our team at Kugler Vision monitors changes and offers alternative solutions when appropriate. Many patients who were once told to wait eventually become eligible and return when the time is right. - Perceived Inconvenience
Some people avoid LASIK because they assume the process will take too much time or require a difficult recovery. In reality, the procedure itself takes only minutes, and most patients return to normal activities within a day or two. Kugler Vision makes the process streamlined and efficient, minimizing disruption to your routine. - Satisfaction with Current Vision Correction
People who are comfortable with glasses or contacts often don’t feel a strong need to make a change. But over time, frustrations can build—foggy lenses, dry eyes from contacts, or trouble during travel or exercise. When these daily annoyances add up, patients start to see LASIK as a way to improve comfort and freedom. - Misinformation or Lack of Awareness
Outdated information or myths about LASIK can cause hesitation. Some believe the results won’t last, or that the procedure isn’t safe. At Kugler Vision, we make sure our patients get accurate, up-to-date facts about safety, long-term outcomes, and the technology we use. Once people understand the real data behind LASIK’s success, many feel more confident moving forward.
What Finally Makes People Choose LASIK at Kugler Vision?
After months or even years of hesitation, many patients at Kugler Vision eventually reach a turning point. Several key motivators help them overcome their concerns and commit to LASIK surgery. Below are the most common reasons people finally decide it’s time to take action.
Desire for Convenience and Freedom
The idea of waking up with clear vision and no longer needing glasses or contacts is a powerful motivator. For active individuals or frequent travelers, the freedom from visual aids can be life-changing.
Financial Realization
Over time, the costs of prescription glasses, contact lenses, cleaning solutions, and eye exams add up. Many patients come to see LASIK as the more economical option, especially when Kugler Vision offers financing plans to help make the investment manageable.
Positive Testimonials and Peer Influence
Hearing from friends, family members, or even coworkers who had LASIK and loved their results helps build trust. Patients often say that someone else’s experience gave them the final push to schedule their own consultation.
Quality of Life Improvements
Whether it’s more confidence in daily interactions, the ability to play sports without limitations, or fewer disruptions during travel, many patients realize that better vision can improve multiple aspects of life.
Immediate Results
The potential for rapid improvement in vision is especially appealing. Most LASIK patients at Kugler Vision notice better vision within a day, and that quick payoff is hard to ignore.
Medical Clearance
Some who were once told they weren’t good candidates become eligible later due to changes in health, vision stability, or new technology. When they’re finally cleared for LASIK, they don’t hesitate to move forward.
We Are Ready When You Are
If any of these reasons for waiting felt familiar, you’re not alone—and you’re not stuck. Thousands of people have overcome the same concerns and are now enjoying life with clear vision. When the timing is right, Kugler Vision is here to guide you through the next step with expert care and the latest in vision correction technology. Schedule your LASIK consultation today and see what’s possible.
FAQ’s About Reasons People Delay LASIK And What Finally Changed Their Minds
Why do people hesitate to get LASIK even if they qualify?
Even if someone is a candidate, fear and uncertainty can cause hesitation. Concerns about pain, long-term effects, or disrupting their routine are common. At Kugler Vision, we focus on patient education and walk each person through the process so they can make an informed decision with confidence. Understanding how laser eye surgery works helps ease anxiety for many.
Can I get LASIK if I’m breastfeeding?
LASIK is usually postponed during breastfeeding due to fluctuating hormones, which can temporarily affect vision stability. Kugler Vision advises waiting until hormone levels return to normal to ensure accurate measurements and optimal results. Our team will help you determine the right timing based on your specific circumstances.
Is LASIK safe if I have diabetes?
Diabetes doesn’t automatically disqualify you from LASIK, but it must be well-controlled. The Kugler Vision team evaluates each patient carefully to assess the risk of delayed healing or other complications. With proper management and screening, many people with diabetes safely undergo LASIK at Kugler Vision.
How does pregnancy affect LASIK eligibility?
Pregnancy can temporarily change a woman’s vision due to hormonal fluctuations, so LASIK is generally not recommended during this time. Kugler Vision encourages patients to wait until after childbirth and hormone levels have stabilized. This ensures more accurate results and long-term success with the procedure.
Can I have LASIK if I have an autoimmune disease?
An autoimmune disease doesn’t always rule out LASIK, but it may increase the chance of delayed healing or dry eye symptoms. At Kugler Vision, our doctors thoroughly evaluate your medical history to determine whether refractive surgery is appropriate or if an alternative like PRK may be safer.
What role does fear play in delaying LASIK?
Fear of surgery is a major barrier for many patients. Worrying about discomfort, potential injury, or outcomes involving delicate eye tissue can feel overwhelming. Kugler Vision’s experienced team and advanced technology help ease these fears through education and personalized support from your surgeon.
Why do some people wait until their vision gets worse before considering LASIK?
Some individuals manage well with corrective lenses and delay LASIK until frustration with foggy glasses, contact lens irritation, or activity limitations becomes too much. When visual perception starts to interfere with daily life, people often reconsider. Kugler Vision frequently helps patients transition at this point.
Does LASIK treat astigmatism and myopia?
Yes—LASIK is designed to correct both astigmatism and myopia, among other refractive errors. Kugler Vision uses precise mapping tools like corneal topography to customize each procedure. Whether you’re nearsighted, have uneven curvature, or both, our team will tailor a treatment plan for your needs.
What are some signs you’re ready to move forward with LASIK?
Common signs and symptoms include growing irritation with contacts, lens dependency during travel or workouts, and general lifestyle limitations. If these things are impacting your quality of life, Kugler Vision can help determine if LASIK is the right solution at this stage.
If you have tough vision problems like a high prescription, astigmatism, or reliance on reading glasses– don’t be discouraged. At Kugler Vision, our award-winning LASIK experts can help. As the only team in Omaha to specialize in all seven vision correction procedures– we have customized solutions to treat even tough vision problems so you can experience life glasses and contacts free. Schedule your consultation today!
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