The Risks of LASIK Surgery
November 17th, 2013
LASIK surgery has helped millions of people worldwide see clearly without the need for contact lenses or prescription glasses. Over the years, technology has helped improve the results of the surgery, making it safer for patients to receive the vision enhancement that they need. But with this in mind, LASIK is a surgery, and all surgeries carry their share of risks.
The team at our eye care would like to take a few moments right now to consider the risks and complications of LASIK surgery and what these mean for patients.
About LASIK Surgery
LASIK surgery is a refractive procedure that is performed in order to address:
- Myopia (Nearsightedness)
- Hyperopia (Farsightedness)
- Astigmatism
To do this, a laser reshapes the cornea, the clear, frontal portion of the eye. By doing this, light passing through the eye is better focused on the retina, enhancing vision overall.
Learning About Risks and Benefits During the Consultation
Before any patient undergoes LASIK surgery, they will learn about all risks and benefits of the surgery during a consultation. This will provide a patient will realistic expectations about the whole surgical process and allow them to make empowered, well-informed decisions.
Are complications after LASIK likely?
Complications aren’t likely per se, though there is a chance of them occurring. Generally the chances are low, but we think patients should be aware of these matters regardless.
Common Complications Following LASIK Surgery
Below are some potential complications that may occur after undergoing LASIK:
- Infection – Infection is a risk when any surgery is performed, and LASIK is no exception.
- Flap Complications – A flap must be made in the topmost layer of the cornea in order for the contour to be revised. This flap may be positioned poorly or heal imperfectly.
- Overcorrection/Undercorrection – The reshaping of the cornea may be overdone or imperfectly done, meaning that the patient’s vision is not properly improved.
- Chronic or Persistent Dry Eye – While dry eye is a temporary side effect of LASIK, some patients may develop chronic dry eye that lasts for years after surgery.
Addressing These Risks and Complications
Thankfully many of the above complications can be addressed through basic surgical revisions and corrective procedures. These can be discussed with you during the LASIK follow-up visits as needed.
How You Can Minimize Risks/Complications of LASIK
All patients are given instructions for pre-operative and post-operative care. It’s imperative that patients follow all of these instructions to the letter so that they heal quickly and with as few complications as possible.
How We Minimize Risks/Complications of LASIK
Improvements in techniques and technologies over the years have made LASIK much safer over time. By using advanced LASIK systems and staying at the forefront of the field, we are helping to minimize LASIK risks and improve overall patient results and experience.
Learn More About the Risks of LASIK Surgery
For more information about LASIK surgery and how it can be beneficial to you and your needs, be sure to contact our Huntsville and Decatur laser eye surgery centers today. Our entire team looks forward to meeting you in person and helping you achieve excellent vision.
