Contact lenses are considered a pretty safe treatment for common eye conditions. Many people choose contact lenses over any laser treatment with the belief in mind that it’s a safer and more practical option. Although, recent studies have proven that this may not be the case and that refractive laser surgery could be a much more reliable option.

Most people, including optometrists and surgeons, thought that contact lenses were normally one of the more risk-averse treatment methods for eye conditions like myopia, hyperopia, cataracts or astigmatisms. This is because compared to refractive treatments it’s minimally invasive. Contact lenses are considered an easier option with less likelihood of having any detrimental side effects because there is no surgery required.

Although refractive treatment is considered completely safe and beneficial when performed by an experienced surgeon, because it involves physically restructuring the eye, as opposed to the technical aid of a contact lens, patients worry about something going wrong.

In saying this, it’s important to note that all eye treatments are relatively low risk.

Studies have found that:

• Contact lens wearers are twice as likely to encounter eye related problems compared to those receiving Laser Eye Surgery.
• 77% of contact lens wearers who received laser Eye Surgery were strongly satisfied with the treatment up to 3 years following.
• 88% of individuals who wore glasses and then had Laser Eye surgery were strongly satisfied with the treatment 3 years after its completion.
• 4/5 patients are suitable for refractive procedures including iLASK or PRK. There is more than one laser eye surgery treatment available.

The associated risk of contact lenses includes infections, abrasions corneal ulcers and dry eyes. All of these risks have the potential to compromise sight and even result in partial or complete vision loss.

For those that undergo laser eye surgery, they are preselected based on their eye health and overall candidacy for treatment. This higher amount of scrutiny sees to it that risks are avoided. The high success rate and little complications from laser eye surgery would suggest that it’s worth considering compared to contact lenses.

If you’re considering either contact lenses or laser eye surgery you should know how each treatment method can benefit you.

Contact Lenses

Benefits

• Relatively cheap compared to other treatment methods
• Changes to the curvature of your eye
• Allow you to see clearly

Disadvantages

• The amount of oxygen that reaches the eye is reduced, causing dry eyes
• Require proper cleaning and care so that wearers don’t receive an infection
• Falling asleep wearing contacts can irritate and cause problems for eyes

Laser Eye Surgery

Benefits

• Patients no longer need corrective eyewear
• Corrects vision permanently
• Recovery is quick, with no stitches

Disadvantages

• Costs more than other treatment methods
• It’s a technically complex procedure

Perfect Visions surgeons have provided laser eye surgery in high volume and are experienced in all refractive surgery treatments. We have completed over 20,000 procedures, positioning us as a leader in the industry.

Whenever considering your ideal eye treatment option the team at Perfect Vision can provide valuable insight. Assessing your candidacy and providing their knowledgeable suggestions which can help direct you towards the most favourable treatment for you.