The Impact of Laser Eye Surgery on Student Athletes

Laser eye surgery has revolutionized the field of vision correction, improving the lives of millions around the globe. As an increasing number of student athletes are turning to this procedure to enhance their performance on the field, it’s important to understand its impact on their lives.

This article will delve into the academic research findings in laser eye surgery and discuss the advantages and disadvantages associated with the procedure for student athletes.

Academic Research Findings in Laser Eye Surgery

Laser eye surgery, or more specifically, laser-assisted in situ keratomileusis (LASIK), has been widely studied and found to be a safe and effective method for correcting refractive errors, such as nearsightedness, farsightedness, and astigmatism (Solomon et al., 2009). The procedure involves reshaping the cornea, the clear front part of the eye, allowing light to focus properly on the retina at the back of the eye. Studies have shown that LASIK has a high success rate, with approximately 90% of patients achieving 20/20 vision or better (Sandoval et al., 2016).

It is notable that research related to the management and prevention of complications for LASIK surgery dates back at least 20 years and that a lot of progress has been made in this field.

Advantages for Student Athletes

Improved Vision: The most apparent advantage of laser eye surgery for student athletes is the improvement in their vision. Better vision translates into better performance on the field. Athletes with corrected vision can more accurately judge distances, react faster to movements, and have better hand-eye coordination.

Elimination of Contact Lenses or Glasses: Laser eye surgery can free student athletes from the need for contact lenses or glasses. This can lead to increased comfort and reduced risk of injury, as there is no chance of glasses breaking or contact lenses dislodging during intense physical activities (Pérez-Cambrodí et al., 2015).

Enhanced Confidence: Improved vision can boost the confidence of student athletes, leading to better overall performance. In a study conducted by the Journal of Cataract and Refractive Surgery, it was found that athletes who underwent LASIK experienced a significant improvement in their self-reported quality of life, including increased confidence in their athletic performance (Ang et al., 2010).

Disadvantages for Student Athletes

Possible Complications: Although laser eye surgery has a high success rate, complications can still occur. Potential risks include infection, inflammation, dry eye, and vision problems such as glare, halos, or double vision. In rare cases, complications can lead to a decrease in vision quality (Solomon et al., 2009).

Not Suitable for All Athletes: Certain sports may place student athletes at a higher risk for complications following laser eye surgery. Athletes involved in contact sports, such as football, rugby, or wrestling, have a higher risk of eye trauma, which can potentially dislodge the corneal flap created during the LASIK procedure. In such cases, photorefractive keratectomy (PRK) may be recommended as a safer alternative, but it comes with a longer recovery period (Shortt et al., 2013).

Eligibility and Age Restrictions: Student athletes who are interested in laser eye surgery should be aware that not all individuals are suitable candidates for the procedure. Factors such as age, unstable vision prescription, and certain medical conditions may disqualify a student athlete from undergoing the surgery. Moreover, some sports governing bodies have specific guidelines regarding laser eye surgery, which may affect an athlete’s eligibility to compete (International Olympic Committee, 2021).

The attitude of young people towards laser eye surgery:

The opinion of young people, specifically those aged 15 to 22, regarding laser eye surgery is quite diverse. As this age group consists of high school and college students, including many student athletes, their perspectives on this procedure are influenced by various factors such as personal experiences, peer opinions, and the potential impact on their academic and athletic pursuits.

Many young people view laser eye surgery as an attractive option to correct their vision, as it can offer them the freedom from glasses or contact lenses, which can be inconvenient or even hinder their performance in sports or other physical activities. For student athletes, the prospect of improved vision and the potential boost in confidence and performance can make laser eye surgery an appealing choice.

However, there are also concerns among young people in this age group about the risks and potential complications associated with laser eye surgery. The fear of undergoing a surgical procedure on their eyes, coupled with the possibility of complications such as dry eyes, infection, or even reduced vision quality, can make some young individuals hesitant about opting for the surgery.

It is worth noting that the age factor plays a crucial role in determining the eligibility of young people for laser eye surgery. Most surgeons recommend waiting until at least the age of 18 before considering the procedure, as the eyes are still developing and the prescription may not have stabilized before that age. In some cases, surgeons may even suggest waiting until the early twenties, especially if the prescription is still changing.

Additionally, young people may also be influenced by the opinions of their peers or family members who have undergone the procedure, either positively or negatively. Personal anecdotes and shared experiences can play a significant role in shaping the attitudes of young people towards laser eye surgery.