Make the Right Choice for Your Vision
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.
Cost: Long-Term Investment Analysis
LASIK Cost Breakdown
$2,246*
*Average cost of LASIK eye surgery per eye in the United States according to a 2024 Market Scope report of last year’s data.
• No Ongoing Costs
• Potential FSA/HSA Eligible
• Potential Discounts and Monthly Specials
• Many Financing Options Available
Contact Lens Expenses
$14,000+*
*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.
Safety: Understanding the Risks
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.
Convenience: Lifestyle and Practicality
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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What is Lasik Eye Surgery?
The World’s Most Popular Elective Procedure, Trusted by Millions to Live Free With Clearer Vision.
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.
Renowned & Trusted Worldwide
40M+ Procedures
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.
Effective & Proven
99.5% Success Rate
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)
Swift, Seamless, & Rapid Recovery
~2 Min Procedure
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?
Where to Get LASIK?
Explore our network of LASIK providers in the United States.
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.
Insurance Coverage and Discounts
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?
To see all of our reviews, please look at our Google My Business or Yelp reviews. Reviews reflect individual experiences. As with all medical procedures, individual results will vary, and anyone considering LASIK should speak with a doctor. A review of scientific articles published between 2008 and 2015 published in the Journal of Cataract & Refractive Surgery found that 99.5% (59,503/59,833) of LASIK treated eyes addressed in the literature achieved post-operative acuity better than 20/40
See the World with Clarity and Confidence!
With our proven track record and millions of satisfied patients, you can trust us to help you achieve visual freedom.