Study Explores Reasons why Millions of Americans Avoid LASIK Surgery
A new survey by Overnight Glasses explores why millions of Americans still avoid LASIK surgery—despite nearly 800,000 procedures performed in the U.S. each year. The study, based on responses from 1,000 glasses-wearers, uncovers the biggest concerns stopping people from making the switch.
You can read the full write-up here, but here’s a snapshot of the key findings:
Top Reasons People Are Avoiding LASIK:
| Reason for Avoiding LASIK | Percentage |
| Fear and Skepticism about the Procedure | 25.00% |
| Post-Surgery Effects | 20.00% |
| Preference of Alternatives (Glasses/Contacts) | 20.00% |
| Financial Considerations | 15.00% |
| Suitability for LASIK | 15.00% |
| Risk of Long-Term Complications | 10.00% |
Fear & Skepticism (25%) – The most common reason for avoiding LASIK is fear—whether it’s anxiety over complications, the permanence of the procedure, or simply distrust of laser eye surgery. One respondent even joked, “I watched Final Destination as a kid, so I’ll pass on lasers near my eyes.” Others worry, “What if something goes wrong? My vision is too important to gamble with.”
Post-Surgery Side Effects (20%) – Some respondents fear long-term effects like chronic dry eyes, night vision difficulties, and the possibility of needing glasses again. One person shared, “My sister got LASIK, and now she constantly needs eye drops. No thanks.” Another added, “I had LASIK at 20, and now at 23, my vision is already getting blurry again.”
Content with Glasses or Contacts (20%) – Many are perfectly fine with their current eyewear and see no need for surgery. Some enjoy the fashion appeal of glasses, while others find contacts a convenient, reversible solution. One respondent said, “I’ve worn glasses for years. They don’t bother me, so why take the risk?”
Cost & Affordability (15%) – LASIK remains expensive, and insurance rarely covers it. Some respondents feel it’s not worth the price, especially since vision changes over time. One person explained, “LASIK is too costly, and chances are I’ll need glasses again in 10 years.”
Medical Suitability (15%) – Not everyone is a candidate for LASIK. Conditions like thin corneas, high prescriptions, or astigmatism can make some ineligible. One respondent shared, “I actually wanted LASIK, but my doctor told me my eyes weren’t suitable.”
Long-Term Vision Changes (10%) – Some respondents worry about how LASIK interacts with aging, particularly presbyopia (age-related farsightedness) and night vision issues. Others are concerned about its impact on future eye surgeries, like cataract removal.
Gidon Sadovsky from Overnight Glasses commented: “LASIK can be a game-changer for many, but don’t rush into the decision. Take the time to truly understand your own lifestyle and how surgery fits into that. For some, LASIK is the right path to freedom from glasses, but for others, the idea of trusting a laser with something so important is not worth the risk. In my experience, too often people focus on the benefits without considering the potential for long-term adjustments, like presbyopia, which might render the surgery less effective as they age. It’s essential to explore all options and weigh them carefully.”
story credit: https://www.overnightglasses.com/
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Author: David Keech
David Keech is a retired teacher and works as a sportswriter, sports official and as an educational consultant. He has reported on amateur sports since 2011, known as 'KeechDaVoice.' David can be reached at [email protected]
