Can you imagine life without glasses or contacts, waking up to crisp morning light, swimming without worry, seeing your child’s smile clearly across the room? But just as quickly, doubt creeps in: Is LASIK safe? Will it hurt? Can I afford it?
These questions are completely valid.
Millions of people have faced the same concerns and gone on to reclaim their vision with LASIK. Today’s technology is safer and more precise than ever, and most patients say they wish they’d done it sooner.
In this article, we’ll discuss the five most common fears about LASIK, from cost and recovery to outcomes and long-term risks and share what the science (and real patients) say.
You don’t have to wonder “what if” forever. Let’s give those fears a reality check.
Finding the Right LASIK Provider
Choosing a qualified LASIK surgeon is a top concern. You deserve a team offering comprehensive eye care, vision correction, cornea specialists, cataract surgery, glaucoma, and oculoplastics to feel safe and supported.
Most practices include a complimentary LASIK consultation. During this visit, your provider will:
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Perform a thorough eye health and prescription exam
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Discuss your vision, goals, and candidacy
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Explain technology options and pricing
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Answer questions and address concerns
Look for clear communication, detailed explanations, and genuine attentiveness—signs of a provider you can trust.
Worrying About Less-Than-Perfect Results
No one wants “almost” great vision. Your outcome depends on the surgeon’s skill, advanced laser technology, and your individual eye health. While LASIK works for millions, not everyone is a candidate.
Key considerations include:
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Age and overall health
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Corneal thickness and shape
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Degree of refractive error
If LASIK isn’t ideal, alternatives such as PRK, Implantable Contact Lenses (ICL), or Refractive Lens Exchange may be recommended. Barnet Dulaney Perkins’ Vision for Life program even guarantees ongoing support for qualified LASIK patients, because we stand behind your results for life.
Fears of Complications & Side Effects
Like any surgery, LASIK carries risks, but severe vision loss is rare. Modern platforms like the Wavelight Allegretto Wave Eye-Q laser preserve your cornea’s natural curvature, helping prevent halos and glare.
Common side effects and solutions:
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Halos/Night Glare: Minimized by wavefront-guided lasers
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Dry Eye: A treatable condition; our doctors offer Intense Pulsed Light (IPL) therapy and other advanced diagnostics
With experienced surgeons and state-of-the-art technology, most complications are minor and manageable.
Concerns About Recovery Time
You want minimal downtime, and LASIK delivers. While you may experience hazy or blurry vision on the first day, most patients notice significant improvement within 24–48 hours. Your surgeon will outline post-op care and follow-up visits to ensure a smooth, pain-free recovery.
Worrying Over the Cost of LASIK
Understanding the cost of laser eye surgery can be as confusing as buying a car—there’s a base price plus optional add-ons. Nationwide, patients typically invest $1,600–$3,500 per eye, depending on technology and surgeon experience.
At Barnet Dulaney Perkins Eye Center:
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Some insurance or vision plans may cover part of your treatment
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Flexible financing and FSA/HSA options make LASIK more accessible
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Transparent pricing at your complimentary consultation
We’ll work with you to find a plan that fits your budget.
Ready to Leave Your LASIK Fears Behind?
Now that you understand the facts behind the top LASIK fears, you can confidently make an informed decision.
Schedule your complimentary LASIK consultation today at Barnet Dulaney Perkins Eye Center to see if vision correction is the right choice for you.