Debunking the Top Myths About LASIK

When a patient comes in for a LASIK consultation, we often hear the assumptions and misconceptions they have about laser vision correction surgery. We debunk these common LASIK myths one-by-one:

LASIK Myth #1: You Can't Have LASIK Over 40.

False! There are two common vision myths and misconceptions when it comes to evaluating LASIK over the age of 40:

1. You are too old to have your vision surgically corrected at all because you will just need glasses in the future
2. You are not a LASIK candidate - instead, you can only have lens implant surgery

If you are told either of these myths about eyes, you should definitely get a second opinion. Dr. Mozayeni and Dr. Nunnery, LASIK surgeon at Providence Eye & Laser Specialists have given thousands of patients over the age of 40 the gift of great sight with LASIK or PRK and many of his patients opted for monovision to correct both near and distance vision.

LASIK Myth #2: You Can’t Have LASIK If You Have Astigmatism.

False! The technology in the LASIK industry has improved dramatically over the past decade. Sadly, this is a commonly held vision myth that leads many patients to never evaluate the benefits of laser vision correction. The LASIK surgeons at Providence Eye, Dr. Mozayeni and Dr. Nunnery regularly correct astigmatism with LASIK and PRK.

LASIK Myth #3: LASIK Can “Wear Off” Over Time.

False! LASIK does not “wear off”, but if you are not properly evaluated and your vision is not stable at the time of your LASIK surgery, then you will not have a long-lasting result. A LASIK surgeon (not an optometrist or general ophthalmologist) should evaluate you with a dilated exam to verify the stability and overall health of your eyes. While we understand how many people could believe this myth about eyes, if your vision is stable and you are deemed an ideal candidate by an experienced and reputable LASIK surgeon, you can expect a long-lasting result.

LASIK Myth #4: The Recovery Time After LASIK Is Long.

False! This is a widely held myth about LASIK, but the typical recovery time after LASIK is only about 24 hours. Once your vision has been checked and your surgeon ensures that your corneas are healing appropriately, you will be cleared to drive and go back to most of your normal daily activities like work or school.

LASIK Myth #5: I Can't Exercise After LASIK.

False! Most people are usually pretty anxious to get back to their normal exercise routine. Contrary to this myth about exercise after LASIK that most believe, you may begin exercising as soon as one day after your LASIK surgery, depending on the activity. Dr. Mozayeni and Dr. Nunnery recommend avoiding public gyms for 5 days due to the potential of coming into contact with germs. You can introduce activities such as yoga, running, weight lifting even contact sports over the coming days and weeks. But, if you are playing contacts sports or any racquet sports such as tennis, racquetball, squash or basketball our surgeons recommend you wear eye protection.