Contact Lenses & Glasses Vs Modern LASIK?

Discover why thousands of optometrists and ophthalmologists recommend their patients to get LASIK, citing decades of proven results, advanced safety technology, and the ability to reduce or even eliminate dependence on glasses and contacts.

Choosing the Best Vision Correction for Your Lifestyle

When it comes to improving your vision, the choice between glasses, contact lenses, and LASIK eye surgery is more than just a medical decision—it’s a lifestyle one. Whether you’re nearsighted, farsighted, or have astigmatism, the right solution can significantly impact your comfort, convenience, and quality of life. Understanding how each option differs in cost, maintenance, performance, and long-term outcomes is essential before making your choice.

LASIK Cost Breakdown

*Average cost of LASIK eye surgery for both eyes with a LASIK.com Network Provider.

• No Ongoing Costs
• Potential FSA/HSA Eligible
• Potential Discounts and Monthly Specials
• Many Financing Options Available

Contact Lens Expenses

*The annual cost of contact lenses varies, but a conservative estimate places the average at approximately $240 per year for standard lenses. For those who use daily disposable contacts, the cost is significantly higher, averaging between $450 and $650 annually, depending on the brand and frequency of use. Over an adult lifetime of 60 years (based on the average U.S. life expectancy of 78 years), the total cost of contact lenses can range from $14,000 to $39,000 depending on various factors like age, prescription, brand, etc.

Contact Lens Risks

A survey by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) found that approximately 99% of contact lens wearers reported engaging in at least one behavior associated with an increased risk of eye infection.

«Contact Lens Health Week—United States, 2015.» Morbidity and Mortality Weekly Report, vol. 64, no. 32, 21 Aug. 2015 https://www.cdc.gov/mmwr/preview/mmwrhtml/mm6432a2.htm. Accessed 6 Jan. 2025.)

  • Allergen Issues: Contacts trap allergens that can irritate eyes. 
  • Corneal Abrasions: Improper lens handling can cause scratches on the eye, leading to painful abrasions and increased infection risks. 
  • Allergic Reactions: Users may develop allergic reactions to the lens material or cleaning solutions, causing irritation and discomfort. 
  • Eye Infections: Improper care, extended wear, or expired lenses increase the risk of infections such as conjunctivitis or corneal ulcers. 
  • Increased Risk of Blepharitis: Lens wear can contribute to inflammation of the eyelids, especially with poor hygiene. 
  • Hypoxia: Wearing lenses for too long can cause hypoxia (lack of oxygen to the eye), leading to complications like corneal neovascularization. 
  • Lens Discomfort: Lenses may shift, causing irritation or even injury if trapped behind the eyelid. 
  • Contact Lens Toxicity: Overuse or exposure to harmful chemicals in cleaning solutions may cause irritation or damage to the cornea. 

Life After LASIK

  • Wake up with clear vision
  • No daily lens maintenance
  • Freedom for sports and swimming
  • No packing supplies for travel

Contact Lens Routine

  • Daily insertion and removal
  • Regular cleaning and storage
  • Limited wear during water activities
  • Travel considerations for supplies

Glasses

  • Can fog up or slip during physical activity
  • Limit peripheral vision
  • Require frequent cleaning and maintenance
  • Can be uncomfortable to wear with accessories

References
Market Scope. (2024). 2024 Single-Use Ophthalmic Surgical Products Market Report: Global Analysis for 2023 to 2029, September 2024
American Academy of Ophthalmology. (2023). LASIK – Laser Eye Surgery. AAO Clinical Guidelines.
Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. (2023). Healthy Contact Lens Wear and Care. CDC Vision Health Initiative.
Journal of Refractive Surgery. (2023). Long-term Safety and Efficacy of Modern LASIK Procedures. Volume 39, Issue 2.

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¿Qué es la cirugía ocular Lasik?

Also known as “laser eye surgery,” LASIK is a precise, minimally invasive treatment designed to correct common refractive errors like nearsightedness, farsightedness, and astigmatism. Modern LASIK is safer, more affordable, and easier than ever thanks to advancements in lasers, diagnostic technology, and physicians’ experience.

40M+ Procedures

Check

One of the most popular and studied procedures in the world, with over 40 million procedures performed and more than 7,000 clinical research studies worldwide.


99.5% Success Rate

Sheild

One of the most trusted procedures in the world with 99.5% Percent of LASIK patients achieve 20/40 vision or better.

(Journal of Cataract & Refractive Surgery, Vol. 42, Issue 8, August 2016, Pages 1224-1234)


~2 Min Procedure

Eye

The actual laser vision correction treatment often takes less than 2 minutes and is virtually painless with most patients back to regular activities the next day.


LASIK Qualifications

Am I A Candidate For LASIK?

When you schedule a consultation to with one of our network providers, you’ll experience a level of care far beyond a routine eye exam. Using advanced diagnostic technology, your eyes are carefully mapped and measured with incredible precision to determine if you’re a strong candidate for LASIK. During this advanced screening, your optometrist team will evaluate everything from your prescription stability to the overall health of your cornea.

  • Are You Over The Age Of 18 Years Old?
  • Have You Had a Stable Vision Prescription?
  • Are You and Your Eyes Generally Healthy?
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LASIK In The News

«I can see all that. I got LASIK — I have incredible vision.»

Dave Hogan | Getty Images

LASIK In The News

New Program For Collegiate Athletes Across the US

LASIK.com announced a new program for student-athletes, aimed at enhancing their vision and simplifying their daily routines by reducing or eliminating their reliance on glasses and contact lenses.

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Trusted by Those Who Know your Vision Best

Eye Doctors’ #1 Choice for Laser Vision Correction

LASIK isn’t just the most recommended vision correction procedure by eye doctors; it’s the procedure many choose for themselves and their families. We believe that LASIK should be a collaborative experience between you, your eye doctor, and our medical team. This is why we go a step further and partner with thousands of optometrists nationwide.

Can I Use My Insurance On LASIK?

Our network providers partner with many of the largest national health and vision plans. That means you can take advantage of your exclusive benefits to save hundreds on LASIK.

What People are Saying About LASIK?

I had a great experience at this lasik plus!! The staff and surgeon were amazing!! Very friendly and helpful. My eyes are 20/20 the very next day! So wish I had done this wayyyy sooner. But better late than never. Thank yall so much!! Highly recommend!!
Jon E. from a month ago

Jon E.

a month ago

Everyone said, Life Changing.. WOW, doesn’t even begin what the feeling was like to wake up the next morning and run without glasses, workout without glasses, read my daily readings without glasses! Life Changing is an understatement! The process from virtual concentration to laying on the exam table, painless and complete comfort and care from the entire Team! If it was a place I had to come back to, I would everyday BUT thankfully it’s…
Brooks M. from 2 months ago

Brooks M.

2 months ago

Incredible from start to finish. The consult was informative, the scheduling was easy, pre- and post- op instructions were clear and uncomplicated. The staff are so friendly and genuine. The procedure itself was fast and easy. Dr. Smith explains everything. I can’t recommend this enough. I’m writing this less than 24 hours after my procedure and I have better than 20/20 vision. I wish I had done this years ago.
Ellen F. from 2 months ago

Ellen F.

2 months ago

I recently had my vision corrected using LASIK, and it has been a fantastic experience from the initial consultation through to my follow-up appointments. I began researching LASIK a few months ago, and after reading so many positive reviews, I decided to book a free consultation. The experience was excellent; the staff is incredibly friendly and knowledgeable. They performed a thorough examination and clearly explained my options. In fact, they even demonstrated exactly how my…
Yenni from 2 months ago

Yenni

2 months ago

I found LASIKPlus while scrolling on Ticktock one and I decided to check them out and I am so glad that I did!!! I have been trying to get LASIK for sooooooo long but never qualified because my vision kept on changing or I had to get a lens put in my eye making the cost expensive because my eye sight was so bad! But not at LASIKPlus! They were able to do my LASIK…
Layal N. from 5 months ago

Layal N.

5 months ago

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