LASIK Risks and Complications: What You Need to Know

LASIK, or Laser-Assisted In-Situ Keratomileusis, is a popular and widely-performed refractive eye surgery that aims to correct vision problems such as nearsightedness (myopia), farsightedness (hyperopia), and astigmatism. During the procedure, a laser is used to reshape the cornea, the clear front part of the eye, to improve its ability to focus light onto the retina, resulting in clearer vision.

LASIK has become increasingly accessible and affordable, making it a tempting option for many people seeking to reduce their dependence on glasses or contact lenses. However, LASIK is a surgical procedure, and like any surgery, it carries risks and potential complications that you should carefully consider before making a decision.

Potential Side Effects of LASIK Surgery

When performed by a skilled LASIK surgeon, LASIK is a safe and effective procedure. Still, it’s important for patients to be aware of potential side effects of LASIK eye surgery. Some of the potential side effects associated with LASIK include:

1. Dry Eyes: One of the most common side effects of LASIK is dry eyes, which can occur due to the disruption of the corneal nerves during the procedure. This can lead to a decrease in tear production and increased discomfort. It’s worth noting that the dryness experienced after LASIK, which is known as Surgical Temporary Ocular Discomfort Syndrome (STODS), is different from chronic dry eyes. STODS is generally short-lived, and it usually resolves within a weeks to months after surgery. Read more about steps patients can take to minimize dry eyes after LASIK surgery here.
2. Discomfort and Pain: Many patients experience some level of discomfort or pain following LASIK surgery, which can range from mild irritation to more severe pain. This is typically due to the corneal flap creation and healing. Post operative pain and discomfort should mostly resolve within a few hours of LASIK surgery, but some discomfort may last a few days after the procedure.
3. Light Sensitivity: Increased sensitivity to light, including glare and halos, is a potential side effect of LASIK and for most people may persist for several weeks or months after the procedure.

Potential Risks and Complications from LASIK Surgery

LASIK complications are rare, but they can occur. They are considered complications because they require additional treatment to be resolved. Some potential LASIK surgery complications that can arise include the following:

1. Corneal Flap Complications: The creation of the corneal flap, a crucial step in the LASIK procedure, can sometimes lead to complications. While a small amount of flap inflammation is normal and to be expected, in rare cases flap inflammation becomes severe and can lead to further complications. Another rare but potential risk is flap dislocation, which can cause pain and discomfort. Wearing eye protection and following your doctor’s preoperative instructions will help to minimize these risks. 
2. Infection: As with any surgical procedure, there is a small risk of infection, which can potentially lead to more serious complications if not properly treated. For this reason, your LASIK surgeon will give you topical antibiotics to prevent infection from developing.
3. Persistent Glare and Halos: Some LASIK patients experience increased glare and the appearance of halos around lights, particularly at night. This can make driving and other low-light activities more challenging. Modern LASIK, performed with wavefront optimized and topography guided software, has been shown to minimize this effect.
4. Regression: In some cases, the vision improvements achieved through LASIK may gradually regress over time, leading to a gradual return of the original refractive error.
5. Epithelial Ingrowth: This occurs when the epithelial cells (the outermost layer of the cornea) grow under the corneal flap, which can cause vision problems and require additional treatment.
6. Corneal Ectasia: In rare cases, LASIK can lead to a weakening of the cornea, resulting in a progressive change in its shape, known as corneal ectasia. This can lead to significant vision problems and may require additional procedures or even a corneal transplant.
7. Corneal Haze: In rare cases, a hazy or cloudy appearance can develop on the cornea, which can result in decreased visual acuity.
8. Nerve Damage: The LASIK procedure can sometimes lead to temporary or, in rare cases, permanent nerve damage, which can result in ongoing sensations of numbness or tingling in the affected area.
9. Corneal Scarring: Although uncommon, the LASIK procedure can occasionally lead to the formation of scar tissue on the cornea, which can affect vision and may require additional treatment.

Is LASIK Safe?

When performed by a skilled surgeon, yes, LASIK eye surgery is extremely safe and effective. To put the risks mentioned above into perspective, note that the LASIK complication rate is less than 1%. So, while no surgical procedure is entirely risk-free, the chance of developing a complication from LASIK eye surgery is small. 

Of course, choosing a skilled LASIK surgeon is key to minimizing the risks. CLEI’s team of expert surgeons have performed thousands of LASIK surgeries with fantastic outcomes. We use the latest technology and equipment to perform the procedure, and we give each patient a thorough examination and assessment to make sure LASIK is the right procedure for their individual case. These factors improve outcomes for our patients and minimize the risks. 

Reducing the Risk of Complications from LASIK Surgery

As a patient, there are several steps you can take to help minimize the likelihood of complications:

1. Carefully Evaluate Your Candidacy: Work closely with your surgeon to ensure that you are a suitable candidate for LASIK, taking into account factors such as your age, prescription, corneal thickness, and overall eye health.
2. Follow Pre-operative Instructions: Carefully follow any pre-operative instructions provided by your surgeon, such as avoiding certain medications or using eye drops.
3. Attend All Follow-up Appointments: Attend all scheduled follow-up appointments with your surgeon to monitor your progress and address any issues that may arise.
4. Protect Your Eyes: During the recovery process, be sure to protect your eyes from exposure to dust, wind, and other environmental factors that could potentially interfere with the healing process.
5. Communicate with Your Surgeon: If you experience any unexpected symptoms or complications, be sure to communicate them to your surgeon as soon as possible to ensure prompt and appropriate treatment.

Alternative Options to LASIK Surgery

If you are not comfortable with the risks associated with LASIK or if you are not a suitable candidate for the procedure, there are alternative vision correction options available, such as:

1. Photorefractive Keratectomy (PRK): Similar to LASIK, PRK uses a laser to reshape the cornea, but without the creation of a corneal flap.
2. EVO ICL: With EVO ICL, a small corrective lens is implanted inside the eye, without the need to remove any corneal tissue.
3. Orthokeratology (Ortho-K): Ortho-K involves the use of specialized, rigid contact lenses worn overnight to temporarily reshape the cornea and improve vision during the day.
4. Glasses or Contact Lenses: For some individuals, traditional vision correction methods, such as glasses or contact lenses, may be a more suitable and safer option.

Conclusion: Making an Informed Decision about LASIK Surgery

LASIK surgery can be a life-changing procedure for many people, but it’s essential to approach it with a clear understanding of the potential risks and complications. By educating yourself, working closely with a qualified LASIK surgeon, and carefully considering all of your options, you can make an informed decision that aligns with your vision goals and overall health needs.Remember, the decision to undergo LASIK surgery is a highly personal one, and it’s important to weigh the potential benefits against the risks. With the right information and a trusted healthcare provider, you can make an informed choice that will help you achieve the clear, confident vision you deserve. Reach out to our team of eye care professionals today and schedule an appointment to learn more about LASIK and explore alternative vision correction options that may be right for you.