subject: Pros And Cons Of Laser Vision Correction Preparing For Vision Correction Surgery [print this page] Laser vision correction has been a miracle to millions of people who formerly relied on glasses or contact lenses to see clearly. Laser refractive surgery procedures such as LASIK, LASEK, and PRK have restored the vision of most patients who undergo them to 20/20 or better. Nevertheless, there are pros and cons associated with laser vision correction, and you should be familiar with both before you decide to undergo surgery.
The Pros of Laser Vision Correction
Simply stated, the biggest advantage to undergoing laser vision correction is the possibility of achieving perfect or near-perfect visual acuity without the need for glasses or contact lenses. The success rates of LASIK, LASEK, and PRK are extremely high, with the overwhelming majority of people achieving vision sharp enough that they do not require glasses or contact lenses to operate a motor vehicle. Another significant advantage is that certain occupations, such as certain law enforcement and military positions, require excellent unaided vision. Likewise, it is difficult to participate in certain sports while wearing glasses and contact lenses. LASIK, LASEK, and PRK open up entire new worlds of possibilities for most people, allowing them to avoid the hassles of caring for sight-correcting lenses for good.
The Cons of Laser Vision Correction
As with any major surgical procedure, there are risks associated with laser vision correction. These risks vary according to the procedure. With LASIK, for example, some people experience complications with the flap that is made in the outermost layer of the cornea; in some cases, it heals improperly or does not fully heal at all. With all laser refractive surgical procedures, corneal scarring is possible; likewise, it is possible that a patient will suffer from impaired night vision or see halos or starbursts. In extremely rare cases, it is possible that ones vision would become permanently impaired, so much so that it could not be corrected with glasses or contact lenses.
The best way to avoid the possible cons of laser vision correction is to choose your laser eye surgeon carefully. Be sure to select a surgeon with experience and a verifiable history of consistently excellent results.
