Is LASIK as Safe as Wearing Contact Lenses?
A common question we hear in the office is whether or not LASIK is considered as safe as contact lenses. According to a study1 published in the Journal of Cataract and Refractive Surgery, the risk of vision complications and/or loss associated with LASIK surgery and long-term contact lens wear may actually be closer than what is widely assumed.
A key reason for these findings is that contacts require the use of one’s fingers to insert the lens into the eye, which could introduce bacteria and possibly lead to infection. Additionally, many people have the tendency to over-wear their contacts (such as sleeping in them at night) and/or not follow proper cleaning instructions recommended by their eye doctor, both of which can be detrimental in the long-run. In contrast, LASIK surgery doesn’t require finger-to-eye contact or lens cleaning on an everyday basis, helping to diminish the risks associated with these actions. Thanks to significant advancements in laser technology and precision, the LASIK procedure is also considered safer than ever before, enabling patients to enjoy a lifetime of clearer vision with reduced dependency on corrective eyewear.
Ultimately, both contact lenses and LASIK surgery can be safe and effective vision correction options for the right candidates. If you are interested in improving the quality of your eyesight, I strongly encourage that you seek the expertise of an experienced board-certified ophthalmologist to find out which method may be best for your unique needs.
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If you are interested in vision correction of any form and would like to schedule an appointment with Dr. Sumsion, please contact us today.
1 “Laser in situ keratomileusis versus long-term contact lens wear: Decision analysis,” Journal of Cataract and Refractive Surgery (Vol: 35, Issue:11, Page 1860-1867)