LASIK risks and complications
7. March 2016
LASIK is a popular procedure with high success rates. Most people see positive results from LASIK surgery quickly, but every person responds differently. Your vision may not be perfect immediately following the procedure, and total healing occurs over many weeks and even months and usually takes longer for farsighted patients. It’s normal to have blurriness, light sensitivity, tearing, and mild discomfort right after surgery. Additionally, one of your eyes could heal faster than the other. By following your treatment plan and attending follow-up visits, your eye care professional can make sure your healing is on track and will address any of your concerns. Dry eye syndrome is common after LASIK due to decreased tear production. Your eye care professional may recommend lubricating eye drops or other treatments to help relieve your symptoms. It is common for people who get LASIK to experience halos, glare, starbursts, or ghost images when looking at lights at night, but this is usually temporary. Infection or complications in the corneal flap created during LASIK surgery are rare, but possible. There’s also a chance that your eyes will heal differently than expected. Not everyone who gets LASIK will achieve perfect vision, and you might still need contacts or glasses. You may even be eligible for an enhancement procedure to fine-tune your vision. It is important to understand the risks and benefits before undergoing LASIK surgery.