The Debate: LASIK Surgery Vs. Extended Wear Lenses

A new generation of extended wear soft contact lenses have been introduced that the FDA has approved for up to 30 days of continuous wear. Not everyone can tolerate 30-day extended wear lenses for a full month of continuous wear, just as some people cannot wear 7-day extended wear lenses safely and comfortably for a full week. Flexible wear may be a safe and comfortable alternative if you are unable to tolerate full-time continuous wear of extended wear lenses.

Another alternative is LASIK surgery. Researchers have established that LASIK surgery as performed in 2006 is safer than contact lens use, according to a study published in the Archives of Ophthalmology, October 2006 edition. People who abuse contact lenses by wearing them overnight, sharing them with friends, and improperly caring for them face an even larger risk. The risk of laser vision correction has been diminishing as technologies continue to evolve.

LASIK was pioneered in the early 1990s, and it is at present the most popular surgical procedure used to correct near- and farsightedness, and astigmatism. The word LASIK is an acronym for LASer In-situ Keratomileusus, which means, "to reshape the cornea with a laser." The LASIK procedure involves the use of a special type of laser called the Excimer Laser.

LASIK eye surgery is by far the most common form of vision correction available. The ophthalmologist creates a map of the surface of your cornea to determine what tissue will need to be removed in order to improve vision. He or she will then cut a flap into your cornea to access the stroma, located in the middle of the cornea. The ophthalmologist then uses a laser to reshape the cornea.

The latest evolution in laser surgery is a new laser that cuts the eye differently, reducing the possibility of side effects. The newer way uses laser light, which causes bubbles and water vapor to create the flap. The new flap cut makes surgery possible for more candidates. The second half of the procedure, which used another type of laser to reshape the cornea, remains the same.

Your eye doctor will probably suggest that you try other ways of correcting your vision before you turn to LASIK eye surgery. Some doctors are reluctant to endorse the surgery, reasoning that your eyes are basically healthy even if you have near- or farsightedness. You should definitely not have surgery if you have:

- A disease affecting your immune system
- Persistent dry eyes
- Abnormalities of the eye
- Fluctuating or progressively worsening vision quality

30-day contact lenses, like LASIK, offer hassle free good vision. While each carries some risk, both contact lenses and laser eye surgery are safe for the vast majority of patients. Both can produce excellent vision quality for the right candidates. However, 30-day contact lenses may be a better option for you than laser vision correction if you'd rather have no doubt whatsoever about the visual outcome.