Getting Better Glasses

While there are various types of laser vision correction surgeries, the most common by far is Laser in Situ Keratomileusis, which is usually referred to as LASIK. Last year, there were 638,000 LASIK surgeries performed in the United States.

During this surgery, a surgeon creates a flap in the cornea and then proceeds to reshape the cornea, thus correcting the refractive error and improving vision. If you are nearsighted and are thinking about LASIK, here are three convincing reasons to have laser eye surgery.

1. You Will No Longer Need to Wear Glasses or Contact Lenses

Many people who are nearsighted need to wear glasses or contact lenses so that they can see clearly. If you are one of these people and have worn glasses or contact lenses for many years, you'll be glad to know that after LASIK you will most likely no longer need to wear them.

According to the American Society of Cataract and Refractive Surgery, LASIK has a very high success rate. In fact, 96% of the people who undergo this type of laser eye surgery end up having 20/20 vision or better afterward.

2. You Will Experience Results Immediately After Surgery

For most types of surgical procedures, it can take many days or even weeks to recover and experience healing. This is not the case with LASIK, as you will experience results immediately after having surgery.

Even though you will need to keep your eyes closed for 2 to 4 hours after the procedure, and you should rest for 24 hours afterward, you will be able to see clearly soon after. While complications aren't very common, here are some to be aware of:

• Dry eyes
• Infection
• Regression
• Seeing halos

You may feel some mild discomfort and you will need to put prescription drops in your eyes, but going through LASIK is nothing like going through other types of surgery.

3. You Will Be Able to Live Life More Fully

When you have perfect vision, it's amazing how wonderful life can be. Maybe you avoid participating in certain things like swimming, water activities, or contact sports because of your imperfect vision or needing to wear glasses. Or, maybe you avoid traveling as much as you would like for fear you'll forget your glasses or lose a contact lens.

Since you no longer have to worry about those kinds of things, you will be able to live life more fully. Besides that, you'll look and feel great. Contact a center like Idaho Eye and Laser Center to learn more.