You've worn contacts for years. They're easy to care for and fairly comfortable, but you're starting to wonder about a more permanent solution. That's where LASIK comes in. LASIK is a refractive eye surgery that treats nearsightedness, astigmatism and farsightedness by reshaping the cornea with a laser. Understanding the benefits of the surgery, over contact lenses, may help you make the decision as to whether you want to take the next step.

Why choose LASIK over contacts?

Less discomfort.

In a recent study, presented at the American Society of Cataract and Refractive Surgery Meeting, 79.5 percent of LASIK users reported having no pain or soreness five years post-surgery. That's in comparison to only 27.8 percent of contact lens wearing patients.

Quality of life.

It's no surprise the same study that found LASIK patients have less pain and discomfort also have a better quality of life. Specifically, more than 97 percent of refractive surgery patients surveyed reported that the procedure did improve their overall quality of life.

Long-lasting results.

You pop in your contacts and suddenly you can see. But, what happens at night when you take them out? It's back to your glasses again. Unlike contacts, that are temporary fixes, refractive eye surgery is a more permanent solution. In some cases a follow-up retreatment or enhancement surgery may be necessary with LASIK. That said, you won't have to rely on continuous treatment like you would while wearing contacts.

Less 'stuff' to have on hand.

Think about all of the products you need to wear contact lenses. You have your contacts (which you need to continually replenish). Then, depending on what type of contacts you wear, you need cleaning solutions and storage containers. You may also need special eye drops for added comfort. With LASIK you don't need any of these extra care products.

Easy travels.

Whether you're headed out for an overnight business trip, going to the beach for a week or just getting away for the day, wearing contacts means that you have to do some prep. You need to make sure that you have your lenses (or enough lenses for the duration of your trip) and everything that goes with them. When it comes down to it, if you haven't already packed your contact gear, you can't just pick up and go. After having LASIK you can.

Refractive eye surgery may seem like a major change. And, it is. The permanency of this solution makes LASIK an option that often outweighs contacts when it comes to physical comfort and ease of care. Talk to a doctor, like Morris Eyecare, for more help.

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