My optometrist has recommended it because my vision is so bad.
And then what if you can't afford it?

You take out a loan?

Don't glasses help? Was this an optometrist or an ophthalmologist? There is a difference. If it was an optometrist, then see an ophthalmologist for a second opinion. Though, if it was a optometrist, I would say that it may be counter to his interests to recommend it.

They can correct far worse vision with glasses than they can surgery. My inquest on the topic is the worse your eyes are to begin with, the worse the side effects of the surgery will be... the worst of them being what is called starburst, which could be bad enough to prevent you being able to drive at night.