LASIK Pros and Cons

For decades, LASIK eye surgery has been transforming lives and restoring vision to people all over the world. Over the years advancements have accelerated, incorporating new wavefront technology, femtosecond lasers, and other innovations to reduce complications and offer even better results.

At the Kraff Eye Institute, Dr. Colman Kraff has decades of experience in ophthalmological surgeries and promises an unparalleled LASIK experience and optimal results. We offer LASIK for astigmatism and a host of other eye conditions.

If you wear glasses, you could be a candidate for LASIK surgery. This innovative technology could restore your sight, but we think it’s important that you understand all of the details, including the risks, to determine if LASIK is right for you. However, keep in mind that the chance of experiencing any of these is exceptionally rare.

You can make better decisions when you're fully educated on all aspects that accompany the surgical procedure.

LASIK could change your life. Here’s how it works.

What Is LASIK?

LASIK is a refractive procedure that aims to reduce or remove a patient’s dependency on contact lenses and eyeglasses. Its technical name is “Laser-Assisted in Situ Keratomileusis,” which means a laser is used to change the shape of the cornea, and is applied underneath a corneal flap.

The laser improves your vision by fixing refractive errors you were born with or which may have developed over time.

The surgery is split into two phases. First, an Intralase Femtosecond Laser is used to create a thin flap on the cornea’s surface. Then, the flap is lifted, and another laser is used to change the shape of the cornea. Once completed, the flap is then realigned over the surface of the cornea and mimics a band-aid to expedite the healing process.

LASIK Pros

Like every surgical procedure, there are pros and cons to LASIK surgery that you should consider prior to having surgery. Lasik may not be for everybody, but we think it could be vastly beneficial for a great many people who simply don’t want to rely on eyeglasses and contact lenses anymore.

Let’s take a look at some of these LASIK eye surgery pros:

• Medical studies show that between 96% and 98% of patients who undergo LASIK treatment achieve the 20/20 vision they were aiming for. And, between 40% and 50% of patients end up with vision that’s even better than that. LASIK eye surgery can truly change your life.
• LASIK is more affordable than ever, and the most experienced, reputable surgical centers offer the best value for your money. If a patient adds up what they spend on glasses, contact lenses, contact solutions, and eye exams over time, it ends up costing way more than if they hadn’t had surgery. Exploring a variety of options, discussing success rates, and navigating through varied pricing and financing solutions can accommodate diverse budget needs and preferences.
• Eye surgery is quick and safer than ever. Your laser eye surgery could take as little as 20 minutes, and as you’ll see from our testimonials page, we offer a comfortable, painless, and smooth experience for everyone.
• Recovery is quick. Patients can expect to return to most of their normal activities, including work, by the next day.
• You’ll remember what it’s like to wake up and see clearly without reaching for your glasses or contacts case! With our LASIK procedure, you’ll see clearly without any assistance.

Cons of LASIK Surgery

Despite the numerous benefits of LASIK surgery, it's essential to understand the potential LASIK drawbacks before undergoing the procedure.

• As one might expect, as with most surgeries or treatments, there is the possibility of minimal side effects. Thankfully, with LASIK, these side effects tend to be temporary. One possible side effect is “dry eye,” a symptom characterized by a mild itching or burning sensation that peaks at around three months following the surgery but typically disappears 3 to 6 months post-operatively. A patient will be encouraged to use over-the-counter artificial tears to help minimize this sensation.
• Another temporary symptom, which affects roughly 20% of LASIK patients, is a “glare” around light sources that is visible in low light or at night time. This minor complaint is less common than dry eye and typically improves or disappears, again, between 3 to 6 months. This is also a common issue with contact lenses, however, with contact lenses, the glare lasts for as long as the contact lenses are relied on.
• Every eye is different, and patients must be aware that there's a small chance the surgery may not be right for them, particularly if their corneas are thin or if their refractive error is too high. However, Dr. Kraff and his consultants will explain all available options and ensure that you're provided with optimal opportunities for significantly enhanced and improved vision.

Lasik Surgery Risks

No surgery is without risk, but rest assured, the team here at the Kraff Eye Institute does everything we can to make the surgery as safe as possible. That starts at the initial consultation when Dr. Kraff will decide if surgery is the right option for the patient.

Beyond the temporary symptoms that a small portion of patients may experience, some people may experience blurred vision or discomfort that is resolved with additional surgery.

For these reasons, you must trust the experts – and as Chicago’s top LASIK provider, we’re confident we can deliver the superior results you require.

Are You a Good Candidate for LASIK?

LASIK can correct a range of refractive issues. LASIK for astigmatism is an extremely common laser vision correction procedure, but it’s by no means the only reason people opt for the surgery. There are a few general rules that determine whether you’re a good LASIK candidate, starting with having generally healthy eyes.

You should be at least 18 years old, have had a stable eyeglass prescription for 1 to 2 years, and have no major eye problems including corneal disease, diabetic retinopathy, or macular degeneration.

Dr. Kraff will look over many different factors when you’re here for your initial consultation. He will only decide if you’re a good candidate for LASIK surgery if you fall well within the approved treatment parameters. Safety is our top priority!

Are You Ready to Change Your Life?

Ready to enjoy clear vision without glasses or contact lenses? If you’re ready to explore your options, reach out to the Kraff Eye Institute.

Schedule your complimentary Vision Correction Consultation online or give us a call at (312) 467-7615 and we’ll assist you in scheduling an appointment.

Our world-class facility and experienced doctors are waiting for you.