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LASIK and other eye procedures like cataract surgery have been around for decades now, and are some of the safest, most performed surgeries in the world. But all the assurances we can give and testimonials we can provide aren’t enough in some cases. Some people simply have a fear of eye surgery that can’t be assuaged by stats.
That’s nothing to be ashamed of, and it happens quite a bit. Many people realize that they need LASIK or another eye surgery, but have an abiding fear of having a laser or blade go near their eyes—no matter how safe the procedure actually is.
If you’re someone who wants to improve their eyesight, but is fearful of the surgery itself, there are options for you. First, it might be helpful to dispel some common myths and misinformation about LASIK. For one thing, LASIK is quick and painless, regardless of anything you’ve heard before.
- LASIK surgery is performed while the patient is awake and alert, but they won’t feel anything during the procedure. That’s because instead of general anesthesia, or “going under,” all that’s required for LASIK surgery is numbing eye drops and a little valium.
- Another myth about LASIK is that you somehow have to hold your eyes perfectly still during the procedure. That couldn’t be further from the truth. You can move your eyes during LASIK, because the laser actually tracks your eyes move as they move.
- And as for the actual time it takes, from start to finish LASIK usually lasts about a half an hour, or 5 to 10 per eye. You’ll be home and resting the same day, and in less time than it would’ve taken you to stop and eat lunch instead.
To many people, the knowledge that they won’t have to be put to sleep for the surgery is comforting, but for others, the idea of being awake is actually what they fear.
People who suffer from anxiety, or just have a strong fear of being awake during the procedure have other options when it comes to LASIK. If you are very anxious, your doctor may give you a mild sedative or other medication to lessen your anxiety and make sure you have a smooth and calm procedure.
Even the most anxious people are generally quite surprised at how quick and easy LASIK really is.
And truly, LASIK is one of the safest and most effective surgeries you can undergo. Complications are extremely rare, and even when they do occur, they can easily be resolved with another treatment.
Hopefully we’ve been able to show you why there’s no reason to worry. Even so, if you’ve been thinking about getting laser eye surgery, but have some apprehensions, there’s no better way to dispel them than by talking with your doctor. Don’t wait another day suffering with poor eyesight. Give us a call if you would like to set up a consultation and find out what your options are when it comes to LASIK.
