As the number of people with vision impairments continues to grow, thousands of patients annually consider whether it is worth giving up glasses or contact lenses and opting for laser vision correction. Although the procedure may initially seem expensive, it is an economically sound, health-friendly decision that can dramatically improve quality of life in the long term.
According to Dr. Lina Krėpštė, a microsurgeon at the “Lirema“ eye clinic, more and more patients who want to wake up seeing clearly, go for a run without slipping glasses, swim, or travel freely, are choosing life without glasses or contact lenses.
Invaluable Freedom
One of the key benefits of laser eye correction that makes it worth the investment is freedom, not only physical but also emotional.
“I no longer have friends who wear glasses or contact lenses. Since the procedure is quick and safe, my relatives and friends have taken full advantage of it and can now travel without worrying about lens packs, glasses cases, or solutions,“ says the microsurgeon.
Studies show that after laser vision correction, self-esteem increases, stress levels decrease, and confidence and the ability to process information, such as orientation and reaction, quickly improve.
“Vision is one of the most important human senses, closely related to coordination, reaction speed, and the function of the vestibular (balance) system. For this reason, any vision correction—especially one as immediate as laser surgery—can significantly impact overall well-being and spatial orientation,“ explains L. Krėpštė.
Guaranteed Results
Many people who wear glasses or contact lenses experience optical insecurity when unsure whether their diopters have changed, whether their vision does not fluctuate in the morning and evening when using corrective lenses, or whether they still see well.
“Studies have shown that accurate correction of vision impairment reduces the risk and speed of further progression. Laser vision correction evenly adjusts the cornea’s surface in microns, using a laser beam to form the required shape, thus creating the most accurate correction and improving vision. This precision provides long-term visual stability in cases of nearsightedness, farsightedness (depending on age), and astigmatism,“ points out the doctor.
Laser systems from global manufacturers such as “Carl Zeiss“, “Ziemer Ophthalmic Systems“, and “SCHWIND Eye-tech Solutions“ can correct even subtle visual impairments, which glasses or contacts often cannot.
“Modern laser technologies are so advanced that patients often see much better after surgery than they ever did with glasses or lenses. They forget about yearly check-ups with specialists for vision fluctuations and diopter adjustment. Many even forget over time that they ever had the surgery,“ shares the microsurgeon.
Hidden Expenses
People with poor vision typically change their glasses every couple of years and contact lenses monthly – or even more often. At first glance, these costs may seem minor, but over five or ten years, they amount to a significant sum – more than the cost of laser vision correction. Including the correction tool and additional items like prescription sunglasses, cleaning supplies, lens solutions, cases, etc., in the price is also essential.
“Laser eye surgery is a long-term procedure and a one-time investment. After the procedure, patients no longer have to worry about prescription sunglasses in summer, special protective goggles for skiing in winter, or calculating how many daily lenses to take with them for a trip,“ explains Dr. Krėpštė.
When making the decision, it’s essential to consider not just additional expenses but also hidden costs, such as health risks that could affect future vision and quality of life.
“Patients spend a lot of money on unexpected medical expenses when eye infections, keratitis, and corneal damage occur due to insufficient contact lens care. Sometimes complications occur, after which specialists can no longer restore good vision“ the ophthalmologist summarizes.
Find out whether laser eye correction is possible for you online.