The Risks of LASIK Surgery
Undergoing LASIK surgery has been the best decision that many of our patients have ever made. LASIK can correct refractive errors effectively and eliminate a person's dependence on corrective lenses such as contacts or prescription eye glasses. Yet with that in mind, patients need to understand that LASIK is a surgery, and all surgeries come with some degree of risk. By learning what the potential risks of LASIK are, patients will be able to have more positive experiences of care.
The team at our Salinas and Monterey eye care centers would like to take a moment right now to look at the basic risks of LASIK so that you have a good understanding and realistic expectations about the procedure.
Possible Risks After LASK Surgery
When you visit our ophthalmology and eye care centers in Salinas and Monterey, we'll cover all of the potential risks of LASIK surgery in greater detail. Some of the most common risks are as as follows:
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Undercorrection or overcorrection of refractive error - During the LASIK surgery, the refractive error may not be sufficiently addressed, requiring patients to wear glasses or contact lenses.
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Infection - Infection is a potential risk in all surgeries, and LASIK is no exception.
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Corneal flap problems - During the LASIK surgery, a flap is created in the topmost layer of the cornea in order to perform the recontouring. Issues with the corneal flap will sometimes require additional surgery to address.
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Severe dry eye syndrome - Nerves are severed while creating the corneal flap, which often causes issues with dry eye. These problems are usually temporary, though in some cases the dry eye syndrome can be long term.
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Potential for vision loss - Sight lines may be impaired or lost as a result of LASIK surgery, requiring patients to wear glasses or contacts for proper vision.
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Other long-term issues with vision - Though some temporary vision problems are common while healing, issues with poor night vision, glare, halos, and double vision can sometimes persist well after the LASIK surgery has been performed.
How common are these risks of LASIK?
In general, these Monterey LASIK risks are somewhat rare as long as patients follow instructions for pre-operative and post-operative care. These instructions are designed to ensure that patients heal quickly, optimally, and with as few complications as possible.
Now that you know the risks of LASIK, however, you can make a much wiser and more informed decision about the procedure and if it is right for your needs.
Other Issues to Consider When it Comes to Eye Care
In addition to LASIK, we are happy to advise patients on a number of other general eye care services. By knowing all treatment options available to you, we feel that you will be able to make the best possible decisions about your eyes and your vision.
Learn More About Advanced Eye Care Treatments
If you would like more information about LASIK surgery as well as your many other options for advanced vision correction, be sure to contact our ophthalmologists and eye doctors in Salinas and Monterey today. Our entire team of eye care experts looks forward to meeting you in person and helping you achieve all of your vision goals.