LASIK surgery seems like a scary proposition. Can't you go blind? Well, there is some risk. Let's see what has happened to some athletes that have had the surgery.
The biggest name that comes to mind is Tiger Woods. Can't think of anyone bigger. He had LASIK done in 1999 to shed his contacts and improve his vision. He now sees at an impressive 20-15 without his contacts.
Hitting a baseball is considered one of the most difficult things to do in sports. Excellent vision is critical to be able to hit well. Many baseball players have chosen to use LASIK to help them see the ball better.
Even a couple of pitchers have had LASIK. Greg Maddox had the procedure done and then went on a huge winning streak. He sees at 20-15 now.
Maddox denies that the surgery had anything to do with his win streak. HE did the surgery for off field reasons. He never thought it would make much difference on the mound.
Hitters would feel a definite benefit from improved vision. Both Jeff Bagwell and Bernie Williams have had the surgery. Because they have strong career stats, it's hard to gauge the effect of the surgery on their performance at the plate.
It's when you here these players talk about life after LASIK surgery that you get an idea of how it is for them. Maddox talks about how nice it is to just sit and watch TV now. Bernie Williams feels it is simply a miracle.
Tiger decided to use LASIK for a couple of reasons. Seeing better of course. But, also getting rid of contacts that were a problem wearing when allergies would flare up.
The surgery had another positive effect. Everything he saw seemed bigger and more defined. He feels this has helped him read long putts better.
One thing is for sure. If these great athletes feel it's safe enough to risk losing millions of dollars, then we should all feel safe. Millions of people have had successful LASIK surgery.
