Contacts or Laser Eye Surgery?When it comes to vision correction, most people find themselves choosing between contact lenses or laser eye surgery. Both options offer freedom from glasses, but they are very different in terms of convenience, cost, and long-term benefits. So, which one is right for you? In this post, we’ll compare contacts and laser eye surgery to help you decide.The Convenience of Contact Lenses1. Quick Fix, No SurgeryContact lenses are a quick, non-surgical option to correct your vision. You put them in, and you instantly see better. They offer flexibility, allowing you to enjoy clear vision without having to wear glasses. For many, the idea of surgery can feel daunting1Probst, The Optimization of LASIK, International Ophthalmology Clinics 48(1):p 9-16, Winter 2008., making contact lenses a comfortable and familiar choice.2. Variety of OptionsThere are many types of contact lenses to suit different lifestyles and vision needs. You can choose from daily disposables, extended wear, or even coloured lenses for a style change. This variety means that contact lenses can be tailored to your specific vision needs, whether you have myopia, hyperopia, or astigmatism.3. Flexibility and ReversibilityOne key advantage of contacts is that they are completely reversible. If you don’t like them, you can always go back to wearing glasses or try a different type of lens. There’s no permanent commitment, making it a flexible option for vision correction.The Downsides of Contact Lenses1. Ongoing CostsWhile contact lenses are cheaper upfront compared to laser eye surgery, the costs add up over time. You need to regularly buy new lenses, cleaning solutions, and sometimes replace damaged lenses. Over the years, these recurring costs can make contacts more expensive than laser eye surgery in the long run.2. Daily MaintenanceContact lenses require daily care. You need to clean them, store them properly, and be cautious about hygiene to avoid infections. For many people, the hassle of taking contacts out every night and putting them in every morning becomes tiresome over time.3. Risk of InfectionsImproper handling of contact lenses can lead to eye infections, such as keratitis. Even if you’re careful, wearing contact lenses can sometimes irritate your eyes, especially in dry or dusty environments. If you lead an active lifestyle, you may find this constant maintenance inconvenient.The Benefits of Laser Eye Surgery1. Permanent Vision CorrectionOne of the biggest benefits of laser eye surgery is that it offers a permanent solution to vision problems. Whether it’s LASIK or PRK, the surgery reshapes your cornea to correct how light enters your eye, allowing you to see clearly without needing contacts or glasses.2Probst, The Optimization of LASIK, International Ophthalmology Clinics 48(1):p 9-16, Winter 2008.2. Freedom from LensesLaser eye surgery gives you the freedom to live your life without the hassle of contact lenses or glasses. You can wake up in the morning and see clearly without reaching for your lenses. Whether you’re swimming, playing sports, or simply going about your day, you’ll have the convenience of clear vision all the time.3Saragoussi JJ, Djadi-Prat J, Lebuisson DA, et al. Quality of life after LASIK: part II. Quality of life and satisfaction of a population of patients treated with LASIK [in French]. J Fr Ophtalmol. 2011;34:294–3023. Long-Term SavingsAlthough laser eye surgery has a higher upfront cost, it can save you money in the long term. Instead of spending hundreds each year on new contacts, cleaning supplies, and regular eye exams, a one-time investment in laser eye surgery can eliminate these costs. Over a lifetime, this can result in significant savings.The Downsides of Laser Eye Surgery1. Higher Initial CostThe most obvious drawback of laser eye surgery is the initial expense. In Australia, the procedure typically costs between AUD 5,500 and AUD 10,000 for both eyes, depending on the type of surgery and the clinic. However, many people view it as an investment in their long-term vision and quality of life.4Saragoussi JJ, Djadi-Prat J, Lebuisson DA, et al. Quality of life after LASIK: part II. Quality of life and satisfaction of a population of patients treated with LASIK [in French]. J Fr Ophtalmol. 2011;34:294–3022. Potential Risks and Side EffectsLike any surgery, laser eye surgery comes with risks. Some patients experience side effects such as dry eyes, glare, or halos around lights, especially at night. These side effects are usually temporary, but it’s essential to discuss the risks with your surgeon beforehand.3. Not Suitable for EveryoneNot everyone is a candidate for laser eye surgery. People with certain conditions, such as very thin corneas, severe dry eyes, or high levels of myopia, may not be eligible. A thorough consultation is needed to determine if you’re a suitable candidate.Contacts vs Laser Eye Surgery: Which Is Right for You?When choosing between contact lenses and laser eye surgery, it’s essential to consider your lifestyle, vision needs, and long-term goals.1. LifestyleIf you lead an active lifestyle, laser eye surgery may be the better option. It offers the convenience of clear vision without the hassle of contact lenses. You won’t have to worry about lenses falling out, getting dirty, or irritating your eyes during activities like swimming or hiking.5Saragoussi JJ, Djadi-Prat J, Lebuisson DA, et al. Quality of life after LASIK: part II. Quality of life and satisfaction of a population of patients treated with LASIK [in French]. J Fr Ophtalmol. 2011;34:294–302For those who prefer flexibility or are hesitant about surgery, contacts may be the right choice. They allow you to correct your vision without undergoing a permanent procedure, and you can easily switch back to glasses if needed.2. CostAlthough contact lenses are cheaper initially, the ongoing costs can add up over time. If you’re looking for a long-term solution that could save you money in the future, laser eye surgery might be a more cost-effective option.3. Long-Term Vision GoalsIf you want a permanent solution to your vision problems, laser eye surgery is the clear winner. Contacts provide temporary correction and require daily maintenance, while surgery offers a permanent solution that can significantly improve your quality of life.6Saragoussi JJ, Djadi-Prat J, Lebuisson DA, et al. Quality of life after LASIK: part II. Quality of life and satisfaction of a population of patients treated with LASIK [in French]. J Fr Ophtalmol. 2011;34:294–302Choosing between contact lenses and laser eye surgery depends on your lifestyle, budget, and vision needs.7Probst, The Optimization of LASIK, International Ophthalmology Clinics 48(1):p 9-16, Winter 2008. https://journals.lww.com/internat-ophthalmology/citation/2008/04810/the_optimization_of_lasik.5.aspx Contact lenses offer flexibility but require ongoing maintenance and costs, while laser eye surgery provides a permanent solution with long-term savings and freedom from lenses.If you’re considering laser eye surgery or want expert advice, book a free assessment today to learn more about your options and make the best decision for your vision.Home » Laser Eye Surgery » Contacts or Laser Eye Surgery? Search for: ARE YOU SUITABLE?Check your laser eye surgery suitability online with our free LASIK self-testTAKE SUITABILITY SELF-TESTOUR MOST POPULAR PROCEDURESLASIKSmartSightICLLens ReplacementPRKRefractive cataract surgeryFAQsDISCOVER IF YOU CAN BE FREE FROM GLASSES AND CONTACT LENSESThe best way to find out if lens surgery is right for you is to have an in-person assessment. You’ll get a clear answer from our experts on your suitability and vision correction optionsBOOK A FREE ASSESSMENTHi, I’m Dr. Matthew Russell, your laser and cataract surgery specialistHI I’M DR. MATTHEW RUSSELL YOUR LASER EYE AND CATARACT SURGERY SPECIALISTWith over 15 years of experience, I enjoy the privilege of helping patients of all ages reclaim clear vision or preserve it for as long as possible.Vision correction and high-precision cataract surgery hinge on the expertise and skill set of the provider who also has access to the most precise tools for the job. Ophthalmic surgeons like me know how to make treatment safe, comfortable and positive for the patient. They know how to minimise the risk of complications and maximise successful outcomes.I have a passion for helping my patients enjoy the clear, high-definition vision they need to live rich and active lives. Now, I have hand-picked a team of professionals that share my passion and commitment to exceptional care.Dr. Matthew RussellMBChB, FRANZCO MORE ABOUT DR. RUSSELL