Common Laser Eye Surgery Myths Debunked

It can be difficult to separate laser eye surgery facts from fiction. Between online myths and second-hand stories, the full picture often gets lost. We’ve created this expert guide to clear up the confusion and provide the clinical clarity you need to make an informed decision

Myth: Laser Eye Surgery is Painful

One of the most frequent laser eye surgery myths is that the procedure is painful. In clinical practice, patients feel no pain at all, as anaesthetic eye drops are administered to numb the eye completely. While you may experience a slight “gritty” sensation for a few days post-surgery, this is a standard part of the healing process. For more information, take a look at our blog post on the truth about laser eye surgery pain.

Myth: The Laser Uses Heat

Many people associate lasers with heat due to science fiction. In reality, the lasers used in vision correction are cold. While you may notice a distinct scent during the procedure, this is simply the result of carbon atoms being released as the laser interacts with the corneal tissue – it’s a normal part of the process and no cause for concern.

Myth: Laser Eye Surgery Results Are Not Permanent

The structural changes made to your cornea are permanent. However, it’s a fact about laser eye surgery that it cannot stop the natural ageing process of the eye. For instance, many patients eventually develop presbyopia – the age-related need for reading glasses – which occurs regardless of whether you have had laser treatment.

Myth: It Prevents Future Cataract Surgery

Undergoing laser treatment does not rule out cataract surgery later in life. Should you develop cataracts in the future, our surgeons simply factor your previous vision correction into the calculations for your replacement lenses.

Myth: Laser Eye Surgery Causes Blindness

Laser treatment only affects the thin, outer surface of the eye. Major complications are exceptionally rare; to date, there are no recorded cases of blindness in healthy eyes following standard procedures. Statistically, the risk of a serious infection from long-term contact lens wear is often higher than the risks associated with modern laser vision correction.

Myth: Results Cannot Be Refined

Again, this is not true. In the unlikely event that results are not exactly as expected, our surgeons will assess your eyes and determine the most appropriate next steps. If suitable, an enhancement procedure or additional treatment can often be performed to help you achieve your desired outcome.

Myth: It’s an Unproven, New Procedure

Modern technology has significantly expanded the range of treatable prescriptions. Today, laser eye surgery can also correct long-sightedness and astigmatism very successfully with millions of patients treated to date.

Myth: Laser Eye Surgery is a New Procedure

Laser vision correction has been an established medical practice since the 1980s. With millions of successful procedures performed globally, it’s now one of the most commonly performed elective surgeries in the world.

Debunking 4 Myths About LASIK Surgery

When researching laser eye surgery, many patients specifically ask about LASIK. Here are 4 myths about LASIK surgery clarified:

• Myth: You are asleep during the procedure. You remain awake, and your eyes will be completely numbed with anaesthetic drops. Special instruments gently hold your eyelids open so the surgeon has complete control throughout the procedure 
• Myth: LASIK is only for mild prescriptions. Advanced LASIK platforms can treat a broad spectrum of vision issues, including complex prescriptions and  high levels of myopia (short-sightedness).
• Myth: Recovery takes weeks. Most patients meet the standards for driving and return to work within 24 to 48 hours.
• Myth: The corneal flap never heals. The flap begins to bond immediately after the procedure and is structurally secure within days.

Your Peace of Mind: Essential Facts About Laser Eye Surgery

Gaining a clear understanding of how laser eye surgery works is often the most effective way to build confidence. To help you feel completely at ease, here is what the clinical evidence reveals about the modern procedure:

Unrivalled Precision

A common worry is the fear of moving or blinking. Your eyelids are gently held open so you will be unable to blink and you will be given a target to stare at to guide your eye movement. Our lasers use sophisticated eye-tracking technology that monitors your eye’s position hundreds of times per second. Should you make a sudden movement, the laser responds instantly by pausing, ensuring total safety throughout.

Suitability for Most Patients

Gone are the days when treatment was reserved for minor prescriptions. With today’s advanced technology, we can successfully correct long-sightedness and astigmatism alongside short-sightedness, making visual freedom accessible to more people than ever before.

A Proven Clinical Track Record

.Laser vision correction is a well-established, proven procedure with decades of clinical success.

Since its mainstream introduction in the 1980s, millions of successful procedures have been performed. It remains one of the most thoroughly researched and safest elective surgeries available in the UK today.

Every patient’s journey is unique. Before choosing to proceed, we recommend weighing the pros and cons of laser eye surgery to ensure the benefits perfectly align with your personal lifestyle and visual goals.

Take the First Step Toward Visual Freedom

Deciding to transform your vision is a significant milestone, and it is perfectly natural to have questions. Book a free consultation with our team of world-class surgeons and dedicated patient care coordinators, who are here to provide the bespoke guidance you need to move forward with absolute confidence.