LASIK vs Contact Lenses

Risks of LASIK

Most LASIK patients end up with 20/20 vision, and about half end up with eyesight that is better than 20/20 without glasses. Choosing a skilled surgeon can improve outcomes and lower the risk. You should also ask if you are a good candidate for LASIK.

With LASIK, there is a minor risk of vision loss. A 2020 study found that less than 1% of LASIK patients lost up to two lines on the eye chart of vision after surgery.

It’s possible for some patients to suffer from short-term vision disturbances such as dry eyes, halos, unusual glares, and difficulty focusing following LASIK. These symptoms are usually only temporary. While a minority of LASIK patients develop chronic eye pain or serious infections.

Risks of Contact Lenses

A 2017 review found that as many as 47% of contact lens users develop conjunctivitis – a type of eye infection sometimes called pink eye – at some point. 50% report dry eye, and up to 93% report lens-related discomfort.

Also, another possible risk is Keratitis, a type of infection that may threaten vision even if not properly treated.

The rate of complications increases when people misuse contacts, such as by wearing them for too long or when they are dirty. Complications also vary with the type of lens a person chooses and whether they have underlying eye health issues.

In conclusion

In most cases, the complications of wearing contacts build slowly, steadily damaging the eye, while complications related to LASIK happen shortly after treatment.

So, is LASIK better than contacts? This is a question only you and your eye doctor can answer, but the evidence shows that LASIK is a more convenient and long-term solution to a huge range of eye problems.

To find out more about our pioneering LASIK solutions, and know which treatment is best for you, please book online for a free virtual vision assessment on our website today.