Laser eye surgery has grown in popularity over recent years in the UK, thanks to huge technological advancements. But why is it becoming more commonplace?

5 minute read

If you’re fed up with wearing your glasses, you can’t find a pair that suits you or they just get in your way, laser eye surgery might be a solution for you. It’s become more common over the recent years due to advances in technology making it a lot safer and accessible. For these reasons, more people than ever before are considering this procedure to correct their vision problems.

Let’s dive deeper into why laser eye surgery is becoming so popular. We'll look at the potential risks and tackle some of the most frequently asked questions to help you decide if it's the right choice for you.

The rise of laser eye surgery - why?

LASIK (Laser-Assisted in Situ Keratomileusis) is the most common form of laser eye surgery which has revolutionised the field of vision correction. LASIK has also been proven to be safe for long-term use. Here are some reasons why more people are undergoing this procedure.

Advances in technology

Modern advances in laser technology have made the procedure more precise and safer. A detailed map of your eye can be created which means treatments can be customised to each patient and therefore be more effective.

High Success Rates

For most patients, laser eye surgery can result in perfect 20/20 vision. The high success rate and patient satisfaction and recommendations are high, therefore more people are willing to try it for themselves.

Quick Recovery

There is a relatively short recovery time for laser eye surgery. This means patients can often return to their normal activities within a couple of days. This is another factor which makes this procedure popular.

Convenience

Allowing patients to never have to wear glasses or contact lenses again offers a great deal of long-term convenience. You can see perfectly from the moment you wake up in the mornings without any additional aids.

Understanding the risks

Like with any other surgical procedure, from hair transplants to dental work, laser eye surgery still comes with its risks. It is important to be aware of these before deciding on whether you want to move forward with it or not.

Dry or Sore Eyes

Many patients experience dry eyes after surgery, which can be temporary or, in rare cases, permanent. Sometimes, red blotches can appear on the white of your eyes but may improve over a few months.

Visual Disturbances

Some people may notice glare, halos, or double vision, especially at night.

Over-corrections or under-corrections

It’s important to be aware that the surgery does not work for everyone the first time. It might not correct vision to what was desired, and more procedures may be needed.

Flap complications

During the LASIK procedure, a “flap” is created in the cornea. This can sometimes lead to complications if there is an infection, or if it does not heal properly. The risk and timescale of these complications is unknown, so it could be discovered at any time in the future.

Who can have laser eye surgery done?

Unfortunately, laser eye surgery is not suitable for everyone. Before being assessed for laser eye surgery, the eye specialist will conduct a thorough examination to ensure you fit into the following criteria:

• Over 18 years old (an adult)

• Have had a stable eye test prescription for at least the past year

• Have healthy eyes without severe conditions such as glaucoma or cataracts

• Are not pregnant or breastfeeding

• Ensure your corneas are the correct thickness for the procedure

Laser eye availability on the NHS

Laser eye surgery is not usually available on the NHS in the UK because it is not considered to be an urgent procedure. It is known as an elective procedure that can be scheduled in advance.

The NHS only covers medically necessary treatments, and corrective eye laser surgery does not fall into this category. There may be exceptions in some rare medical cases, so it is always good to check with a medical professional.

What is the cost of laser eye surgery?

There is no one fixed cost for laser eye surgery. It will vary depending on the type of procedure you choose, the clinic and the level of expertise of the eye surgeon.

Average prices range from between £1,500 to £3,000 per eye in the UK. This might sound like a lot of money, but if you think about it you would be saving in the long-term, if you consider your eye tests, glasses and contact lenses. Plus, when it comes to your eyes, you don’t want to skimp out on the costs. Instead, get the procedure done at a reputable clinic that is experienced.

Can you have laser eye surgery more than once?

Yes. In some cases, additional surgeries known as “enhancements” are needed if the vision was not corrected to what was needed the first time. Having said this, it is not advised to have too many laser eye procedures as it can thin out the cornea of your eye over time.

If the surgery is not fully successful the first time, your experienced eye surgeon will be able to support you with the next steps. 

Availability across the UK for laser eye surgery

There are many clinics which offer Laser Eye surgery across the UK, even more widely in bigger cities like London, Birmingham, Manchester and Glasgow.

The popularity of laser eye surgery over the years has grown, and so have the clinics to meet the demand. This is why it’s important to find a clinic you can trust, with experienced, professional staff and great patient reviews.

Laser eye surgery’s quick recovery time

One of the most appealing benefits of laser eye surgery is the fast recovery time. Most patients notice an improvement in their vision within just 24 hours, although it can take a few weeks for the vision to stabilise fully.

There is no need to take off vast amounts of time from work. During the recovery period, it’s crucial to follow your surgeon’s post-operative care instructions to ensure the best outcome.

Does it restore perfect vision?

Many patients can achieve 20/20 vision, or even better after laser eye surgery, however perfect vision is not guaranteed. Everyone is different and will therefore have a different experience.

Factors like age, the severity of the initial vision problem, and individual healing responses can affect the outcome. Nevertheless, most people experience a significant improvement in their vision and find the procedure life-changing.

Is laser eye surgery for you?

While laser eye surgery has grown in popularity for individuals seeking to enhance their vision and ditch their glasses and contact lenses, it's not an option for everyone. Not everyone is eligible for the procedure. There are also risks, but the benefits can outweigh those risks for the right people.

Many people who have had laser eye surgery, have commented that they wished they could have done it sooner. If you’re considering laser eye surgery, consult with a qualified eye specialist to discuss your options and determine if it’s the right solution for you.