Abstract
Background: Refractive errors are defined as inability of the eye to focus parallel rays of light to a specific point on the retina. Untreated refractive error complications can be prevented by refractive surgery, using eyeglasses or contact lenses. Aim: To determine the factors that influence a patient's decision to choose refractive surgery over other treatment modalities. Methods: This cross-sectional study was performed using a self-administered questionnaire distributed to all patients older than 17 years who visited the Refractive Surgery Clinic for refractive surgery. The questionnaire assessed factors that influenced the patient's decision to choose refractive surgery over other treatment modalities using multiple-choice questions. Results: The responses of participants (n=470) included being tired of using glasses (71.5%)or contact lenses (38.9%), disliking their appearance with glasses (43%), and wanting to participate in sports (33.2%), join the police or military forces (4.5%), or obtain aviation and marine jobs (1.3%). Conclusion: While cosmetic, employment and recreational factors contribute to the decision; patients commonly undergo refractive surgery to avoid the inconveniences of wearing spectacles and contact lenses.