Nearsightedness, or myopia, is a common vision condition. Nearsighted individuals can see well up close but struggle with distance vision. According to the Cleveland Clinic, the condition affects up to 40% of Americans.
The most common treatments include prescription glasses and contact lenses. While entirely effective, these vision aids can be inconvenient, limiting, and expensive.
Those who are interested in eliminating their need for glasses and contacts might consider LASIK for nearsightedness. It is a solution that can provide clearer distance vision for a lifetime. As results can be permanent or semi-permanent, it’s important to decide if LASIK is the right treatment for you.
In this blog, we’ll explore the benefits, pros, and cons of LASIK eye surgery for nearsightedness. We’ll help you understand the procedure, the ideal candidates, and what to look for in an eye surgeon. Continue reading to open your eyes to this potentially life-changing procedure.
Does LASIK Work for Nearsightedness?
LASIK is a safe procedure with few complications and excellent long-term outcomes. Many people ask “Can you get LASIK for nearsightedness?” The answer is yes. According to the Mayo Clinic, the procedure has the highest rate of success for patients with mild myopia.
Nearsightedness is considered a refractive vision error. The LASIK procedure physically reshapes the cornea to correct this error. It accomplishes the same thing as glasses or contact lenses.
There are a few different types of LASIK for nearsightedness. Only some of them require the surgeon to create a corneal flap. You will need to consult a specialist to learn which type of LASIK is ideal for addressing your unique refractive error.
The Pros and Cons of LASIK for Nearsightedness
The pros far outweigh the cons when it comes to choosing LASIK for myopia. The latest technology has made LASIK into a quick, pain-free outpatient procedure with a brief recovery period.
The American Refractive Surgery Council suggests that 96% of LASIK patients are satisfied with the results. Furthermore, more than 90% of patients achieve 20/20 vision or better following their procedure.
Benefits of LASIK include:
- Reduced reliance on glasses and contact lenses
- Saves you money over time, especially if you use disposable contacts
- Increased freedom and enjoyment of life, such as while swimming
- Enhanced convenience
With that said, LASIK is a surgical procedure, and all surgical procedures involve some amount of risk. Not every patient might be an ideal candidate for LASIK. You will need to schedule a consultation to determine your candidacy.
Furthermore, some individuals may require reading glasses following LASIK. This is because LASIK cannot prevent natural, age-related vision changes like presbyopia. Still, most patients agree that the procedure positively transformed their quality of life.
How Much is LASIK for Nearsightedness?
As of the year 2020, the average cost of the LASIK procedure in the US was $2,632 per eye. With that said, the number may be higher or lower depending on where you live. The expertise of the surgeon and the technology they use may also play a role.
In general, we advise patients to be wary of a quote that seems too good to be true. When it comes to your vision, it makes sense to pay for experience, education, and high-tech surgical equipment.
As a rule, health insurance does not cover the cost of LASIK for nearsightedness. If you have dedicated vision insurance, you may be able to receive a discount. If you have an HSA, you can use those funds to pay for LASIK and other laser eye surgery procedures.
To make LASIK more affordable, we advise you to work with a doctor or clinic that offers financing options. Small, monthly payments make covering the cost manageable for individuals at many income levels. You will likely have to pass a credit check to qualify for financing.
Who Is a Candidate for LASIK Eye Surgery?
LASIK is good for nearsightedness in general, but not every individual is a strong candidate.
The following traits describe the ideal LASIK patient:
- 21 years of age or older (though younger people tend to make the strongest candidates)
- Generally good eye health
- Generally good physical health
- Not taking medications that suppress the immune system
- Has had a stable prescription for at least 12 months with no changes
- Not currently pregnant or nursing
In some cases, an individual’s job might prohibit refractive surgeries like LASIK. First responders, professional athletes, and members of the military may face these restrictions. Always confirm with your employer before undergoing this procedure.
Schedule Your Consultation and Achieve Clear Vision Without Glasses
The best way to learn if you are a strong candidate is to schedule a consultation with an eye surgeon. Consider board-certified surgeon Dr. Khanna in Beverly Hills.
At his practice, Dr. Khanna prioritizes technologically advanced methods with an emphasis on pain reduction. His dedication to constant learning and growth makes him a trustworthy practitioner with an impressive record of success. His international reputation and warm bedside manner set him apart as one of the best eye surgeons in LA.
Schedule a free consultation to meet Dr. Khanna and learn if LASIK for nearsightedness is right for you.