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Debunking Top 10 LASIK Myths Still Circulating Online

Despite being one of the most widely performed elective procedures in the world, LASIK still carries a cloud of internet-fueled misinformation. In 2025, outdated myths continue to show up on forums, social media threads and even casual conversations, making it harder for serious candidates to separate fact from fiction. 

Let’s clear things up with evidence-backed answers to 10 of the most common LASIK myths that just don’t seem to go away. 

  1. LASIK is Painful

This one keeps making the rounds, but here’s the reality: LASIK isn’t painful. Numbing eye drops are used before the procedure begins, so patients typically feel pressure, not pain. The laser itself uses a cool beam of light, not heat, and is active for just seconds. Some mild burning or itching may occur afterward, but this is temporary and manageable with prescribed drops. 

  1. LASIK Can Make You Go Blind

Let’s set the record straight: LASIK has never been linked to blindness in healthy candidates. The risk of serious complications is incredibly low, less than 1%. In fact, the procedure has one of the highest satisfaction rates in modern medicine. Vision-threatening issues are extremely are and are typically preventable through proper screening and post-op care. 

  1. LASIK Wears Off Over Time

LASIK permanently reshapes the cornea to correct your vision, but it doesn’t stop the natural aging process. If your vision changes later, it’s often due to age-related conditions like presbyopia or cataracts, not the LASIK wearing off. Most patients maintain excellent vision for decades post-surgery. 

  1. LASIK is Only for Young People

While many LASIK patients are in their 20s or 30sm people in their 40s and even 50s may still be great candidates, especially with modern screening tools and advanced custom treatments. Candidacy depends more on your eye health and prescription stability than your birth year. 

  1. Everyone Can Get LASIK

Unfortunately, LASIK isn’t for everyone. People with very thin corneas, certain eye diseases or unstable prescriptions may be better suited for alternatives like PRK. A comprehensive consultation with a refractive surgeon is key to determining the best path for your eyes. 

  1. LASIK is Still New and Unproven

LASIK has been FDA-approved since 1999 and has evolved dramatically over the years. With tens of millions of procedures performed worldwide, it’s no longer new; it’s one of the most studied and refined elective surgeries available. 

  1. Recovery is Long and Difficult

Recovery from LASIK is surprisingly quick. Most people return to normal activities within 24 to 48 hours. Blurry vision, dryness and sensitivity are normal early on but usually resolve within days or weeks. 

  1. LASIK is Only for Nearsightedness

LASIK treats myopia (nearsightedness), hyperopia (farsightedness) and astigmatism. Advancements in laser technology have expanded treatment capabilities, making more people eligible than ever before. 

  1. LASIK is Too Expensive to be Worth it

While LASIK is an upfront investment, many patients save money long-term by ditching years of glasses, contacts and prescription changes. Financing options and flexible spending accounts (FSAs) often make it more accessible than people assume. 

  1. Glasses Will Still Be Necessary Anyway

After LASIK, most patients don’t need corrective lenses for daily activities. Some may still choose glasses for close-up work or night driving as they age, but LASIK greatly reduces reliance on them for most of life. 

The internet is full of opinions, but when it comes to your vision, only facts should guide your choices. LASIK is safe, time-tested and more advanced than ever before. If outdated myths have held you back, it may be time to take a fresh look at what modern LASIK can do for you. 
Contact MedEye Associates at 305-661-8588 or WEBSITE. Clearer vision is closer than you may think.