Myth Busters Blog: Common Misconceptions About Laser Eye Surgery

20th, Jan 2025

Laser eye surgery is one of the most popular and life-changing medical procedures available today. With advancements in technology and techniques, it is no surprise that people are choosing it to correct vision problems like near-sightedness, far-sightedness, and astigmatism. However, despite its proven success and safety, there are still many myths and misconceptions surrounding the procedure.

At Kingsbridge Eye Clinic, we believe in educating our patients and dispelling these myths to ensure you make informed decisions about your eye health. Let’s take a closer look at some of the most common myths about laser eye surgery and set the record straight.

Myth 1: Laser Eye Surgery Is Painful

Fact: One of the most common misconceptions about laser eye surgery is that it’s painful. In reality, the procedure is relatively painless for most patients.

At Kingsbridge Eye Clinic, we use advanced techniques like SMILE, which are minimally invasive. Before the procedure, a local anaesthetic eye drop numbs the surface of your eyes. This ensures you won’t feel pain during the procedure itself. You may feel a mild sensation, but discomfort is rare. After the surgery, you may experience some mild irritation or a gritty feeling in your eyes for a short period, but this typically resolves within a few hours to a few days.

Myth 2: Laser Eye Surgery Is Only For Young People

Fact: Laser eye surgery can benefit people of various ages, not just those in their 20s and 30s.

While age may play a role in the ideal timing for laser eye surgery, patients in their 40s or 50s can still undergo the procedure, provided they have healthy eyes and stable vision.

At Kingsbridge Eye Clinic our unique platform offers PRESBYOND laser eye surgery which aims to correct age-related vision problems such as presbyopia (the inability to focus on close-up objects), in addition to near-sightedness or far-sightedness. The key is having a thorough consultation to determine if you’re a suitable candidate for the procedure.

Book your FREE virtual consultation at kingsbridgeeyeclinic.com today

Myth 3: Laser Eye Surgery Is Dangerous

Fact: Laser eye surgery is incredibly safe and has a proven track record of success.

Like any surgery, there are risks associated with laser eye surgery, but serious complications are extremely rare.

At Kingsbridge Eye Clinic, we adhere to the highest standards of care and use the latest technology to ensure the best possible outcomes for our patients. The procedure is performed by highly skilled and experienced Consultant Eye surgeon who take great care to assess your individual needs, ensuring that the treatment is tailored to you.

Myth 4: Laser Eye Surgery Works Instantly

Fact: While laser eye surgery delivers impressive results, it’s not always instantaneous.

It’s true that the procedure itself only takes a matter of minutes, but the recovery process varies from person to person. Most patients begin to notice improvements in their vision within a few hours or a day after surgery, but full recovery can take a few days or even weeks. During this time, your vision may fluctuate as your eyes heal and adjust to the treatment. It's important to follow all post-operative instructions and attend follow-up appointments to ensure optimal results.

Myth 5: Laser Eye Surgery Can’t Fix All Vision Problems

Fact: Laser eye surgery can treat a wide range of refractive vision issues, but it’s not suitable for every condition.

Laser eye surgery is primarily designed to treat near-sightedness (myopia), far-sightedness (hyperopia), and astigmatism. However, certain conditions, like very high prescriptions or corneal issues, may make someone a less-than-ideal candidate.

If you have conditions such as cataracts or glaucoma, laser surgery may not be the best option. That’s why a thorough consultation and eye examination at Kingsbridge Eye Clinic is essential. Our specialists will evaluate your eyes and determine the best course of action based on your specific needs.

Myth 6: Laser Eye Surgery Is Too Expensive

Fact: While laser eye surgery may seem like a significant upfront cost, it’s an investment in your long-term health and quality of life.

When you consider the long-term costs of glasses and contact lenses - plus the inconvenience of replacing them regularly - laser eye surgery can be more cost-effective over time.

Myth 7: The Results of Laser Eye Surgery Aren’t Permanent

Fact: The majority of patients experience long-lasting results after laser eye surgery.

For most people, the results of laser eye surgery are long lasting. However, it’s important to note that as you age, your eyes may still undergo natural changes, such as presbyopia (age-related difficulty focusing on near objects). This is unrelated to the laser procedure itself and can now be treated with our PRESBYOND laser technology. We are the only clinic in Ireland offering this treatment.

In rare cases, patients may experience some regression of their vision over time.

At Kingsbridge Eye Clinic, we carefully assess your eyes before surgery to ensure you’re a good candidate for long-term success. We also offer post-surgery care and follow-up appointments to ensure that any changes to your vision are promptly addressed.

Myth 8: Anyone Can Get Laser Eye Surgery

Fact: Not everyone is a candidate for laser eye surgery.

There are specific criteria that need to be met to ensure the surgery is safe and effective. Factors such as age, overall eye health, the stability of your prescription, and the thickness of your cornea all play a role in determining your eligibility.

At Kingsbridge Eye Clinic, we offer thorough pre-surgical consultations to assess your suitability and provide alternative options if laser surgery isn’t right for you.

Conclusion: The Truth About Laser Eye Surgery

Laser eye surgery at Kingsbridge Eye Clinic offers an effective, safe, and life-changing solution for many patients seeking freedom from glasses or contact lenses. By busting these common myths, we hope to help you make an informed decision about whether laser eye surgery is right for you.

If you’re considering laser eye surgery or have more questions about the procedure, our team of experienced eye specialists is here to help. Contact us today to schedule a consultation and discover how we can help you achieve clearer vision and a brighter future!

About Kingsbridge Eye Clinic: Located within Kingsbridge Diagnostic & Treatment Centre in Belfast, our state-of-the-art facilities and expert medical team are committed to providing the highest standard of care and advanced treatments and offer a range of surgical and non-surgical options to improve your vision and overall quality of life. Learn more about our laser eye surgery services and schedule a consultation with our specialists today.

Book your FREE virtual consultation at kingsbridgeeyeclinic.com today

By addressing these myths head-on, we aim to provide clarity and reassurance for those considering laser eye surgery.