When you need vision correction but don’t want to wear glasses, there are other solutions, including contact lenses and LASIK eye surgery. There are pros and cons of each, and the expert eye doctors at Northern Lights Eye Care in Anchorage, AK, explain what you need to know about these two methods.

When choosing between contacts and LASIK eye surgery, it’s important to know the differences between each. Here’s the breakdown between the two:

• Price: Depending on insurance coverage, contact lenses can cost hundreds of dollars per year. Meanwhile, the LASIK corrective procedure costs an average of $2,000. While the initial price of LASIK is substantial, it’s only a matter of years before you will see the financial benefits.
• Restrictions: LASIK eye surgery is a safe, reliable procedure for qualified candidates. It is not recommended for those under the age of 21 as their eyes are still growing during this time, meaning their prescription is subject to change. Those with cataracts, glaucoma, chronic herpes, and other major eye diseases should also not undergo LASIK. Factors including the degree of prescription, corneal thickness, and corneal shape also all play a role in determining whether a person is a suitable candidate for the procedure. To find out if it’s right for you, you should undergo a thorough evaluation from an experienced eye doctor. Meanwhile, most people are qualified to wear some form of contact lenses.
• Risks: After undergoing LASIK, some patients experience dry eyes and night vision difficulties, including seeing a glare or halo around street signs for a few months after the procedure. However, these symptoms are only temporary. When conducted by a qualified professional, the risk of significant vision loss from LASIK is extremely low. Meanwhile, the risk of severe vision loss from infections due to wearing contact lenses is as high as one in 1,000.  

To find out whether contact lenses, LASIK, or glasses are right for you, visit Anchorage’s best eye doctors. Through in-depth eye exams and the latest technology, Northern Lights Eye Care will help you see clearly for a lifetime. For more information, call (907) 276-3937 or visit the practice’s website.