LASIK is on the Rise

Not everyone is a candidate, it's considered elective surgery and most insurance plans do not cover it…so why is there a recent increase in LASIK surgery? Shofner Vision Center as well as other reputable laser vision correction centers are seeing an increase in laser vision correction surgery, especially after the COVID-19 outbreak.

LASIK (Laser-Assisted In Situ Keratomileusis), commonly referred to as laser eye surgery or laser vision correction, is a type of refractive surgery for the correction of myopia, hyperopia, and astigmatism. It is an elective procedure to improve vision and eliminate (or reduce) a person's need for glasses or contact lenses.

Corrective eye surgery was discovered by accident in 1974, the technology has significantly improved throughout the years, it's a safer and more affordable long term than wearing contact lenses or eyeglasses. According to Market Scope, around 10 million Americans have had LASIK surgery since it was first approved by the FDA in 1999.

The success can vary, but the vast majority of those who undergo LASIK surgery achieve excellent results. About 90% of patients achieve 20/20 vision, and 99% end up with better than 20/40 vision, according to statistics on LASIK from the American Refractive Surgery Council. LASIK also has an unprecedented 96 percent patient satisfaction rate – the highest of any elective procedure.

The demand for LASIK and vision correction surgery fluctuates over time. So why are so many people interested in getting LASIK during a pandemic? Here are a few reasons:

• More disposable income is available due to: staying at home, less dining out, less entertainment, less travel, or receiving stimulus payments.
• Contact lens wearers want to prevent spreading the virus from touching their eyes.
• Working from home allows more flexibility in taking time off to recover from laser surgery.
• Foggy eyeglasses from wearing a face mask.
• Some people are taking time to focus on self-improvement.

LASIK can improve your quality of life by providing visual freedom to perform more activities without the hassle of glasses or contacts. Most of our LASIK patients say their only regret was wishing they had the surgery sooner. Some patients may not be a candidate and it’s important to talk with your eye doctor about laser eye surgery risks and complications. If you have questions about eye surgery or experiencing vision changes, call our office at (615) 340-4733 and we will be happy to assist you.