LASIK (laser-assisted in situ keratomileusis) is a type of refractive surgery that reshapes the cornea to help focus light more accurately. It can reduce dependence on glasses or contact lenses for some people, but it is not automatically better than wearing glasses. The right choice depends on your eye health, prescription, preferences, and willingness to accept surgical risks.
How does LASIK work?
Before surgery, an ophthalmologist examines your eyes, measures your prescription, checks corneal shape and thickness, and looks for conditions that could increase risk. During LASIK, numbing eye drops are used. The surgeon creates a thin flap in the cornea, uses a laser to reshape the underlying tissue, and places the flap back. The procedure is usually performed as an outpatient treatment, and the laser portion takes only a short time.
LASIK is used to correct certain amounts of nearsightedness, farsightedness, and astigmatism. It does not prevent age-related presbyopia, which makes close-up vision harder for many people as they get older. You may still need reading glasses or glasses for particular activities after surgery.
LASIK compared with glasses
Possible advantages of LASIK
- May reduce the need for glasses or contact lenses for many everyday activities.
- Can be convenient for people who find contact lenses uncomfortable or difficult to manage.
- May suit some sports or work activities where glasses are inconvenient, subject to individual needs and professional advice.
Advantages of glasses
- Correct vision without surgery or surgical recovery.
- Can be changed easily if your prescription changes.
- Do not carry LASIK-related risks such as corneal complications, persistent dry eye, or visual disturbances.
- Usually have a lower upfront cost than refractive surgery.
What are the risks and side effects of LASIK?
Some people experience dry eyes, scratchiness, temporary blurry vision, light sensitivity, glare, halos, or starbursts around lights, especially at night. These effects often improve, but some can persist. Other risks include under-correction or over-correction, infection, problems with corneal healing, and rarely a lasting reduction in vision. Some patients still need glasses or may be considered for an additional procedure.
LASIK should not be described as risk-free or as a guaranteed permanent solution to every vision problem. Read the FDA’s LASIK surgery checklist and discuss your individual risks with a qualified eye surgeon.
Who may be a candidate?
Many candidates are adults whose prescription has been stable and whose corneas and overall eye health are suitable. Age alone does not determine eligibility. An ophthalmologist needs to assess your eyes and medical history before recommending surgery.
LASIK may be unsuitable or require extra caution for people with an unstable prescription, significant dry eye, thin or irregular corneas, keratoconus, certain eye diseases, some uncontrolled medical conditions, or circumstances that affect healing. Pregnancy and breastfeeding can also temporarily affect prescription stability, so discuss timing with an eye-care professional.
What to expect after surgery
Vision may be hazy and eyes may feel scratchy or irritated for a short time after LASIK. Follow the surgeon’s instructions about prescribed drops, eye protection, activities, and follow-up visits. Recovery varies, and visual symptoms can take longer to settle for some people. Do not skip follow-up appointments.
Contact your surgical team promptly if you have worsening pain, increasing redness, sudden vision changes, or symptoms that concern you. Sudden or substantial vision loss needs urgent medical assessment.
Questions to ask before deciding
- Is my prescription stable, and are my corneas healthy enough for LASIK?
- Could dry eye, pupil size, or another condition increase my risk?
- What side effects are most relevant to my work, hobbies, and night driving?
- Will I still need reading glasses or glasses for some activities?
- What is included in the quoted price, and what follow-up care or additional treatment might cost extra?
- Would glasses, contact lenses, or another vision-correction procedure be a better fit?
Bottom line: LASIK can reduce dependence on glasses, but it is an elective procedure with potential side effects and risks. Glasses remain a safe, effective option. Discuss the benefits, limitations, alternatives, and costs with an ophthalmologist before making a decision.