Despite recent negative comments about Lasik eye surgery, doctors have defended the process as a healthy alternative to glasses or contacts.
Chris Deutscher, an optometrist in Topeka, says that only about 3 to 5 percent of Lasik patients have any complications after the surgery. In the hands of an experienced doctor, he says, Lasik is completely safe.
"Old technology, lack of experience, those type of things very well play into complications that make for unhappy patients," he said.
About two million eye surgeries performed in the United States, most without complications. One patient who is happy with the surgery is Marge Schepker.
"It was successful. The only downside for me was that I had to travel from here to Kansas City to have it done," she said.
Schepker said there wasn't any pain or discomfort during the surgery. Patients are normally allowed to return to work the next day.
"The only discomfort was from the drops that you take before hand. It's just a little stinging," Schepker said. "I find injections more painful than that."
Extended interview with Dr. Chris Deutscher
When considering Lasik surgery, patients should be aware of certain guidelines. Lasik candidates shouldn't set unrealistic expectations - the procedure isn't designed for those with irregular pupil sizes or cataracts.
Patients are also urged to research the surgeon and ask questions beforehand. For those who have had problems with previous Lasik surgeries, there are ways to fix those complications.
Deutscher said that new technology can often fix the mistakes made by older equipment. Schepker said that Lasik is a perfectly safe procedure, and that Lasik candidates should do their research before the surgery.
