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LASIK, which stands for laser-assisted in situ keratomileusis, is one of the most popular elective procedures in the United States. The procedure has a high success rate for patients with nearsightedness, farsightedness, and astigmatism.
Here, Dr. Francis J. Clark and the team at Ophthalmology Physicians & Surgeons, PC present LASIK statistics to help patients better understand the benefits and risks of this refractive surgery. Contact our Philadelphia, PA practice to undergo a LASIK screening so we can determine if LASIK is right for you.
LASIK is a procedure that allows surgeons to reshape the cornea, allowing light to focus directly on the retina, thereby producing clear vision.
Not all patients are candidates for this elective procedure. Generally, patients should have a stable prescription for their eyeglasses or contact lenses for at least a year and have overall good eye health. During a consultation at our practice, we can determine if your vision can be safely corrected with LASIK.
According to a 2016 study published in the Journal of Cataract & Refractive Surgery, 99 percent of LASIK patients achieve better than 20/40 vision, with 90 percent achieving 20/20 vision.
In addition, patient satisfaction for this procedure is also incredibly high, at 96 percent (which is also the highest satisfaction rate of any elective procedure).
According to reports, in 2017, the average cost for LASIK surgery in the United States was $4,176 (or $2,088 for each eye). Since LASIK is an elective surgery, many insurance plans do not cover the procedure.
However, our practice offers CareCredit℠ patient financing which helps split your treatment costs into manageable monthly payments. In addition, Health Savings Account or Flexible Spending Account funds (available to many patients who have health plans through their employers) can typically be used to pay for the cost of LASIK treatment.
Around 10 million Americans have undergone LASIK surgery since 1999, when the procedure was first approved by the FDA. Anywhere from 600,000 to 700,000 surgeries are typically completed in one year.
While there are risks involved in any surgical procedure, research indicates that complication rates are quite low. For instance, the rate of infection related to LASIK is about 1 in 2,000 cases, with most cases having no effect on vision quality.
In addition, out of the millions of patients who have undergone the procedure, LASIK has never been the primary, exclusive cause of blindness.
It is normal to have questions about LASIK and its ability to help correct your vision problems. Our team of physicians is experienced and knowledgeable about LASIK and other procedures that can improve your vision and overall quality of life.
We are proud to offer six locations in the Philadelphia area for your convenience. Reach out to one of our offices today to schedule your consultation and discover if LASIK and permanently clearer vision is right for you.
