The Pandemic and Laser Refractive Surgery

As people adapted to new norms and reflected on their health due to the pandemic, more have chosen to invest in LASIK or Advanced Surface Treatment (AST). According to the American Refractive Surgery Council, LASIK procedures increased year-over-year by more than 16% in the last quarter of 2020. But how could this rise in refractive error surgery be related to the pandemic? Read on to see why many people have chosen AST or LASIK over the last year. 

LASIK, which stands for Laser-Assisted in Situ Keratomileusis, is a safe, effective eye procedure that reshapes the cornea to improve nearsightedness, farsightedness, and astigmatism. People who are not good candidates for LASIK may benefit from AST, also known as Advanced Surface Ablation. AST is a similar refractive eye surgery that improves refractive errors, like myopia, hyperopia, and astigmatism. By permanently correcting these common vision problems, LASIK and AST have helped millions see better without contacts or glasses.

Mask-Associated Dry Eye

Mask wearing was one of the new social norms brought on by the pandemic. While masks have been crucial in fighting the spread of COVID-19, they have had some uncomfortable effects on the eyes. Since masks prevent exhaled air from escaping directly, some air is pushed up toward the eyes with each breath. Some experts believe that this air encourages evaporation on the surface of your eyes, leading to dry eye. Mask-associated dry eye has been reported to increase dry eye symptoms in both people with and without underlying chronic dry eye.

LASIK and AST Benefits

For contact wearers, the symptoms of dry eye are often worse. LASIK and AST can help avoid this by providing permanent vision correction without contacts. AST is a great solution for people with chronic dry eye for whom LASIK is not an option. If you are looking for dry eye treatment, our experts at Columbus Laser & Cataract Center can help. Ask about treatments such as LipiFlow^®, a noninvasive option that targets the most common cause of dry eye. Treating dry eye before surgery can help ensure the best possible results.

For people who wear glasses, masks have also caused fogging over the lenses. This common inconvenience may also have encouraged people to say goodbye to glasses and choose refractive error surgery during the pandemic.

Investing In Your Health

This past year has provided ample time to reflect on how important it is to take care of your health and live your best life. LASIK or AST is an investment that improves your quality of life while giving you the freedom to explore the world with the clearer vision you deserve.

If you are ready to join the millions of people who have enjoyed the results of LASIK or AST, call Columbus Laser & Cataract Center today! We can’t wait to help you achieve better vision.