Laser Vision Correction

Laser Vision Correction - LASIK Complications That May Arise

Laser vision correction surgery is used to correct various eyesight problems. As with any surgical procedure, there are risks involved and complications may arise from the laser eye surgery. Hence you should investigate all possible LASIK complications that may happen and see if you are more at risk of any before you have the LASIK surgery.

Laser Vision Correction - Some Potential Complications

- Over-Correction Or Under-Correction

> Mild over or under correction can usually be treated by wearing glasses or contact lenses.

> Serious cases may require further LASIK enhancement surgery.

- Infection

> The risk of infection is present with any invasive surgery and is no less of a risk with laser vision correction surgery.

> If left untreated infections can lead to permanent loss of sight.

> In most cases the LASIK eye surgeon will prescribe antibiotics after surgery to prevent infections, and regular postoperative checks will mean any sign of infection can be detected early.

- Cornea Flap Wrinkles

> One of the most common complications of laser vision correction surgery is wrinkles in the corneal flaps. Such a complication can arise when the eyelids are rubbed before the flap has bonded.

- Central Corneal Islands

> If the corneal tissue is not removed uniformly by the laser then small areas of raised tissue may be left on the cornea.

> With the improvement in technology and techniques, this type of complication is becoming quite rare.

> The eye surgeon may suggest options such as the use of contact lenses.

- Epithelial Ingrowths

> This is a rare complication where corneal epithelium grows under the corneal flap.

> If left untreated it may cause significant impairment to vision.

> Correction can be prescribed in the form of eyedrops. In some cases where surgery is required, the eye surgeon may lift the corneal flap to remove the growths.

- Corneal Ectasia

> If too much corneal tissue is removed, the cornea is subjected to excessive thinning. In such a case, the cornea may bulge after the surgery.

> For some patients, non-surgical options such as contact lenses may be suitable.

> In more serious cases, it can only be treated by corneal implant.

- Diffuse Lamellar Keratitis (DLK)

> This is where dead cells become trapped behind the corneal flap.

> DLK can lead to blurred vision and light sensitivity.

> To treat the inflammation, immediate medical attention is needed so as to avoid any potential loss of vision.

- Astigmatism

> The cornea can become warped as a result of the laser vision correction surgery and blurred or distorted vision can be the result.

> Possible treatment methods include laser enhancement procedure.

- Dry Eyes

> This refers to dry, red and itchy eyes. It can also be accompanied with pain.

> Generally such symptoms resolve naturally when the eyes are completely healed.

Laser Vision Correction - Reducing The Risk Of Complications

All surgeries come with potential risks and complications. In order to reduce your risk of complication from laser vision correction surgery, you should follow all advice provided by your LASIK eye surgeon and ensure you fully understand the procedure beforehand.

Researching the LASIK procedure and its potential complications will help you to guard against them. In addition, having an experienced eye surgeon and getting an eye examination done beforehand can significantly reduce your risk of experiencing LASIK complications from the laser vision correction.

LASIK Eye Surgery Cost