The Risks of LASIK Surgery Should Be Weighed with the Benefits

It's important that patients understand all of the benefits as well as the risks of any procedure that they undergo. We believe that strongly at Maple Eye and Laser Center, and it's this kind of dedication to good patient education that's made us one of the trusted names in laser vision correction in the White Plains region.

LASIK is a safe and effective treatment for myopia, hyperopia, and astigmatism, yet patients should keep in mind that there is a chance of negative side effects and surgical complications. Let's cover these matters right now and go over some potential risks.

Eye Infection

Infection is a potential risk with any surgery, though the risk has gone down considerably thanks to modern advanced in medical techniques and laser eye surgery technology. In fact, the risk of infection today is far, far lower than it ever has been thanks to advanced surgical methods.

Undercorrection During LASIK

Undercorrection durng LASIK means that not enough corneal tissue was revised and reshaped. If this occurs, a corrective/secondary LASIK procedure may be necessary to address the matter.

Overcorrection During LASIK

Overcorrection during LASIK means that too much corneal tissue was revised and reshaped during the procedure. When this occur, a corrective surgery may not be possible, meaning that patients will require corrective lenses to account for the problem.

Chronic Dry Eye Syndrome

Dry eye is a common side effect of LASIK because of the way that nerves are affected in the creation of the corneal flap during surgery. In some cases,t he dry eye becomes persistent and lasts longer than a few weeks or a few months. Should this happen, patients will need to carry liquid tears with them wherever they go to address the matter.

Astigmatism Caused By Poor Surgical Technique

Astigmatism is a general issue with corneal curvature that causes light to focus on two separate parts of the retina rather than just one. If a surgeon performs the LASIK procedure incorrectly, he or she may cause astigmatism rather than fixing it.

Persisting Issues with Glare, Halos, and Double Vision

One common side effect after LASIK is glare, halos, and double vision. This is all part of the eyes getting used to seeing after surgery. In some cases, the error persist, making a patient's vision not optimal. Thanks to modern digital mapping, these issues are far less likely to persist after the initial healing period.

Errors Involving the Corneal Flap

When the corneal flap is created, great care is taken to ensure that it is placed back in position without wrinkles or folds. Sometimes this does not happen and a corneal flap issue is the result. These can cause discomfort and also have a negative overall affect on a person's vision. Corrective surgeries can help revise corneal flap complications.

Vision Loss or Impairment

In very rare instances, a botched LASIK procedure can result in a patient losing his or her vision, or having his or hr vision significantly impaired. Thankfully this is a very rare thing, and it's easily avoided thanks to the use of advanced technology and computer-guided laser systems.

Learn More About LASIK Surgery

If you would like to learn more about LASIK and how it can help you have better vision, be sure to contact our laser vision correction and eye care surgery center today. The entire team here at Maple Eye and Laser Center looks forward to your visit and helping you see clearly without glasses or contacts.