When it comes to vision correction, people find convenience appealing. So, it’s not surprising that Lasik surgery is a popular procedure to correct vision problems. Some of the reasons given for its appeal are quicker recovery times and the fact that it takes only 10 minutes for the surgery to be performed. Additionally, people like the liberating feeling of having sharp eyesight that frees them from the hassles that come with wearing glasses and contacts.
However, did you know that in spite of the appeal of these vision benefits, it might surprise you to know that in the past 10-16 years, there has been a decline in the number of Lasik procedures done? According to The Associated Press, in 2007 more than 800,000 Americans had Lasik surgery performed, an increase from 2006. However, in the years 2001,2008 and onwards, there was a sharp decline associated with the economic downturn as more consumers cut back on spending. Some of the reasons for this decline in the number of Lasik surgeries performed included the following: Spending decreases associated with a weakened economy and a steady increase in consumer dissatisfaction with outcomes. Therefore, here are 2 key factors that affected people’s attitudes to making this important decision to have Lasik surgery performed and why it is worthwhile considering a natural alternative to this surgical procedure:
1. Economic Decline and Decrease In Consumer Spending: One of the reasons for this decline in the number of Lasik Surgeries performed was the fact that there was a decline in the economy and as a result of this people tended to be more conservative in their spending. For example, according to David Harmon, President of Market Scope, an eye surgery market research house, apart from the decline in the Lasik industry following the economic recession of 2008, and onwards, there was an even sharper decline from 2001 and the years following that period. Some contributing factors also related to the cost of Lasik that ranged from 800 dollars to 3,000 or more per eye. This factor combined with the weakened economy contributed to customers limiting their spending and opting for glasses as a cheaper alternative.
2. Steady Increase in Consumer Dissatisfaction: Even in spite of the fact that Lasik surgery boasts a high success rate, there was a steady increase in consumer dissatisfaction with this surgical procedure. For instance, the FDA stated that only a certain percentage of patients will achieve 20/20 vision without glasses. However, there is no guarantee you will not need glasses anymore. For instance, at ages 40-45, you will likely need glasses due to the fact that at this age people develop the age related vision disorder called Presbyopia. With this vision condition, your ability to see objects close up is impaired, therefore causing you to hold a book or magazine at arms’ length to see clearly. This vision condition is caused by a natural thickening and hardening of the eye lens and cannot be corrected by Lasik Surgery. Presbyopia requires bifocal lenses to correct blurry, close up vision.
Among customer dissatisfaction factors were the risks and complications patients reported to the FDA. Here is a statistical review from the FDA of Lasik complications and risks: FDA review of data regarding Lasik complications revealed that 6 months after this surgical procedure 17.5 percent of patients reported halos, 19.7 reported glare, (starbursts), 19.3 percent reported night vision problems and 21 percent complained of dry eye.
When it comes to vision improvement alternatives to Lasik, eye exercises are a worthwhile alternative. The advantages of eye exercises over Lasik is that you are re-training your eyes to regain their natural function once again. This is accomplished by exercising the eye muscles responsible for increasing the focusing power of your vision for clearer eyesight. Eye exercises unlike Lasik, addresses the root causes of vision problems related to eye strain and mental stress with eye strain relieving techniques. These release stress in the mind, the body and the eyes as well.
Eye exercises improve vision naturally while improving the circulation to the blood vessels of the eyes; a key factor in improving eye health. Additionally, this is a good preventive measure in reducing the risks for age related vision disorders. The eye exercises provide welcomed relief from dry eye by stimulating the eyes’ natural ability to produce moisture. Through simple eye exercises you can regain your natural eyesight and in terms of convenience, it takes only minutes a day to perform these techniques. Eye exercises provide a safe alternative to Lasik that even in an economic downturn is less expensive, and ultimately,due to the fact that the program is 100% all natural,is free of the risks and complication associated with Lasik.