Advantages and disadvantages of surgery for nearsightedness

Advantages of surgery

• You may no longer need to wear glasses or contacts after surgery.
• You may not have to bother with the daily cleaning and care of contact lenses.
• Surgery may turn out to be less expensive than glasses or contact lenses over the long term, if you don't need corrective lenses after surgery.

Disadvantages of surgery

• Some people still need glasses after surgery but are no longer able to wear contacts. (This is not typical for PRK or LASIK.)
• The long-term risks of surgery are still unknown.
• Surgery has a risk of complications. (Complications that threaten vision are rare, though.)
• Skilled surgeons may not be available in all areas.
• Surgery and follow-up care are expensive.