Refractive Eye Surgery - Risks of LASIK

Some patients experience discomfort in the first 24-48 hours after LASIK surgery. Other side effects may include:

• Dry Eyes.
• Glare.
• Seeing halos around images. These are most noticeable when you're viewing lights at night, such as while you're driving.
• Fluctuating vision.

The FDA has found that LASIK is generally safe and effective, although there are some risks to the procedure. These risks may include:

• Corrections can only be made by additional LASIK surgeries.
• LASIK is technically complex. Problems may occur when the doctor cuts the flap, for example the flap can become unhinged or the microkeratome can potentially cut too deep. These problems can adversely, and permanently, affect the patient's vision.
• The eye may hemorrhage due to the pressure from the suction ring.
• The flap can dislodge following trauma, even years after the procedure.
• LASIK is more likely to cause a loss of "best" vision with or without glasses at one year after surgery. Your best vision is the highest degree of vision that you have achieved wearing your contact lenses or eyeglasses.