SHERMAN, TX -- LASIK Vision Correction has been around almost twenty years in the U.S. yet many are still apprehensive about getting this sight enhancing procedure. For this Moms Everyday Health segment, we'll look at some common misconceptions about LASIK surgery.

If you're one of the 75% of adults in the U.S. who rely on glasses or contacts day in and day out, getting LASIK surgery may have crossed your mind. Although it's not a cure-all, there are many benefits to this outpatient procedure. Opthalmalogist Dr. Clint Long of Long Vision Center in Sherman dispels some of the myths about LASIK...such as it isn't reliable.

"Laser Vision Correcton is a very successful surgery," says Long. "It's very safe. It's one of the most successful surgeries performed in the United States every year. "

The twenty minute process uses "eye-drop" anesthesia before removing corneal tissue that usually heals in two to three days. Although Dr. Long says LASIK is a safe, pain-free surgery with vision improvement seen within the first day, all surgeries have some risk.

"Anytime you consider surgery you must be aware that there's risk. They have not yet invented the perfect surgery that has no risk," he said.

Another concern is that the visual results of LASIK don't last but to that Dr. Long says, "With LASIK we find over the last 15 or 20 years that it does remain stable."

Finally, according to Dr. Long, it’s a misconception to think LASIK can correct all vision problems.

"The ideal candidate is someone who's nearsighted," he said. "Far-sighted patients can have LASIK but there's more of a limitation on how much prescription we can help with that. And it does not help old age vision where you're having trouble reading."

If you're considering LASIK, it's important to have all of your questions answered to make an informed decision. Call Long Vision Center in Sherman at (903) 892-2020, visit http://www.longvisioncenter.com or ask your local eye doctor.

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