How Do Laser Eye Surgery Results Compare to Glasses?

For many people, the idea of having Laser Eye Surgery to get rid of those pesky glasses or contact lenses is – while scary – an incredible opportunity. But while we know that the procedure can be truly life-changing for most people, we also know how important it is to be as informed as possible when making your decision. So, with that in mind, we’re taking a closer look at what you can expect to achieve with Laser Eye Surgery compared with glasses.

The end goal of any form of vision correction is exactly that – vision correction. Of course, many people will also opt for the most convenient visual aids for their lifestyle. For some, the accessibility of glasses makes them ideal, while others will favour the discretion of contacts.

But while the convenience of improved vision with Laser Eye Surgery undoubtedly knocks the alternatives out of the water, the costs associated can often deter people. So, what about the actual outcomes? Is it worth going ahead with Laser Eye Surgery?

What results can I expect after Laser Eye Surgery?

Laser Eye Surgery has become more accessible than ever before. Not only are there more providers, but at the best clinics, advanced technology and expertise mean that more people are now suitable for treatment. But that doesn’t mean that every patient will be guaranteed the same outcome.

Results vary depending on the severity of eyesight before treatment

The results of Laser Eye Surgery can vary significantly based on a number of factors, including your chosen clinic and surgeon; but the most important consideration is your prescription before the procedure.

Many clinics are simply unable to treat patients with very high prescriptions. Fortunately, at London Vision Clinic, we have access to some of the world’s best surgeons and the most up-to-date technology. This allows us to treat prescriptions that are much higher than the norm. But while these patients will still notice a significant improvement in their vision after surgery, there is an increased chance that they will still require some form of visual aid post-treatment.

Laser Eye Surgery can’t guarantee 20/20 vision

It is a common misconception that Laser Eye Surgery will guarantee 20/20 vision. Of course, with the best technology and surgical expertise, this outcome is much more likely but, as we mentioned above, there are many more factors at play.

In contrast, glasses are generally able to correct vision to 20/20 levels. The downside to this arrangement is the many inconveniences of glasses, such as losing or breaking them and having to attend optician’s appointments. At least, for the vast majority of Laser Eye Surgery patients, these problems can be taken away!

Will I still need glasses after Laser Eye Surgery?

For most people, the main aim of having Laser Eye Surgery is ditching the glasses for good. The good news is the vast majority of patients achieve this goal. Over 90% will have their vision corrected to an extent where they no longer need glasses after the procedure – at least during daylight hours. In fact, At London Vision Clinic, around 98% of our short-sighted patients achieve 20/20 vision!

However, there are some exceptions to this rule.

Will I need glasses at night?

Some patients may find that they still require glasses in low light conditions. This may be due to glare such as halos and starbursts which occur around light sources. This can make it difficult to perform certain activities such as driving at night.

Night vision disturbances such as these are relatively common side effects of Laser Eye Surgery. For many patients, this will improve over time as the eyes settle; however, for some, this can persist.

Choosing a properly qualified and experienced surgeon can help to minimise the risk of these complications. At the London Vision Clinic, our experienced surgeons use Wavefront technology, which may significantly reduce the risk of glare, haloes and night vision difficulties.

Will I still need reading glasses?

One of the most common misconceptions about Laser Eye Surgery is that patients will never need to wear glasses ever again – even for reading. Unfortunately, while you will likely enjoy years (perhaps even decades!) of specs-free vision, this won’t last forever.

While the results of Laser Eye Surgery are permanent – that is, your vision will not regress to its previous standard – it cannot prevent the natural ageing process. This means that, as you get older, the natural deterioration of your eyes (known as presbyopia) will still occur. For most people, this eventually means the addition of reading glasses to their daily lives.

Fortunately, there is a solution to reading glasses: the innovative PRESBYOND® Laser Blended Vision treatment. This unique Laser Eye Surgery procedure corrects your eyes to enable you to see well at both near and far distances, allowing you to throw away the specs for good!

So, while Laser Eye Surgery can’t always guarantee 100% perfect results, with the right surgeon and clinic, you will have the best chance of achieving the very best outcomes – and potentially being able to forget about all the inconveniences of your precious form of vision correction.

If you’d like to learn more about what you can expect after Laser Eye Surgery, get in touch with one of our friendly clinic coordinators or Book a Consultation today.