LASIK (laser in-situ keratomileusis) is a common operation that can correct eyesight. It can be performed on nearsighted, farsighted, or have astigmatism. It is one of several vision correction surgeries that work by reshaping your cornea so that light concentrates on the retina at the back of your eye. This reshaping results in the correction of any vision problems that you have.

Contact Lenses Vs. LASIK Eye Surgery

To make it easy for you to decide what would be a better option for you, we have listed a comparison between contact lenses and LASIK laser eye surgery below:

• Safety: Most people find contact lenses and LASIK eye surgery to be safe.
• Side effects: An eye infection is the most probable danger of wearing contact lenses. For laser eye surgery, the risks can be dry eyes and visual disturbances like halos in rare cases. 
• Effectiveness: Both LASIK and contact lenses offer good visual quality. Some LASIK patients may still need glasses for specialized tasks such as reading or driving at night. In comparison, contact lens users' vision changes may usually be managed by simply altering the lens prescription.
• Cost: The cost of bifocal contact lenses that correct astigmatism or presbyopia may be more significant. When calculating the expense, bear in consideration the amount you may spend on contact lenses over time.

Who Performs LASIK Surgery?

A qualified eye surgeon or ophthalmologist performs LASIK surgery. Ophthalmologists who perform LASIK surgery may sometimes be referred to as LASIK surgeons.

Types of LASIK Eye Surgery

The three main types of refractive errors for which LASIK eye surgery is done. They are as follows:

• For Myopia: Myopia or nearsightedness is when you can not see far away things.
• For Hyperopia: Hyperopia or farsightedness is when you can not see things near you.
• For Astigmatism: It is blurry vision caused due to the shape of your eye.

Preparations Before LASIK Eye Surgery

Your doctor will advise you to make preparations according to your condition. However, some of the common steps before a LASIK eye surgery is performed are:

• Eye Exam: Your eye doctor will conduct a complete eye exam to ensure that your eyes are in good enough condition for the surgery.
• Preventive Measures: Preventive therapy can decrease your risk of developing dry eyes following LASIK.
• Medical History: Your eye doctor might also ask you about your general health history and any medications you are currently taking.
• Lenses: You should refrain from wearing contact lenses before your LASIK eye surgery as prescribed by your doctor.

How Long Does LASIK Eye Surgery Take?

LASIK eye surgery takes typically 30 minutes or less.

Risks Associated with Laser Eye Procedure?

LASIK eye surgery, like any operation, has some risks. It is a complicated procedure and, if not handled correctly, can cause issues that permanently impair your vision. It is one reason you should go with a surgeon with a lot of experience with these procedures. The other risks include:

• Dry Eyes
• Under correction
• Overcorrection
• Regression
• Double vision for a few days