New Study Eyes Comparative Effectiveness of LASIK, Contacts

Vision results, patient satisfaction and quality of life are the focus of a recently launched study comparing LASIK surgery and contact lenses in treating myopia (nearsightedness), hyperopia (farsightedness) and astigmatism.

The study is being conducted by the Cornea Research Foundation of America (CRFA), a nonprofit organization dedicated to the preservation and restoration of vision, in conjunction with a number of ophthalmologists across the country. The study is the first to simultaneously document patient experience with these two popular vision correction methods.

The study will survey 5,000 patients with myopia, hyperopia and/or astigmatism who have treated their vision problem with either LASIK or contact lenses. Candidates for the LASIK side of the study must be over 21 and have not had previous corrective eye surgery; participants in the contact portion of the research must be over 21 and have worn contact lenses for at least five years.

Participants will be surveyed annually for three years to assess their ongoing satisfaction (or lack thereof) with their treatment and to document any changes or problems. The goal is to gain information regarding the safety profiles of LASIK and contact lenses and to assess similarities and differences in terms of perceived visual effectiveness, satisfaction and progressive changes.

To learn more about your local LASIK treatment options for myopia, hyperopia or astigmatism, please contact the LASIK directory to find an ophthalmologist near you.