about safety FAQ
If you don't see your question or topic addressed here, check with your doctor.
How safe is this procedure?
The FDA has approved laser eye surgery systems and declared them safe for the correction of various vision problems. Check with your doctor to learn whether or not a system is approved for your particular vision correction needs. In order for these systems to receive approval from the FDA, controlled clinical trials were conducted in the United States to evaluate the safety of laser vision correction procedures. As with any surgical procedure, there are certain safety issues and risks, and you should make sure to learn about them if you are contemplating laser eye surgery.
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Does the government regulate laser eye surgery?
The FDA does not monitor each procedure or physician practice. However, the government does require the licensing of surgeons through state and local agencies. The FDA regulates medical products and equipment used for procedures, by requiring clinical trials and reviewing manufacturing information. The government also requires that the safety and effectiveness for each laser be established through an approval process. By regulating the industry in this way, the FDA is responsible for ensuring safety of the medical products used in these procedures. The FDA maintains a LASIK surgery website that provides more information.
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How could LASIK affect my night vision?
In the first few days following laser vision correction, some patients find seeing at night difficult, or they see halos or glare with very bright light. Individual results vary, but in most cases these conditions are temporary, and will disappear as the eyes undergo a natural healing process. However, some patients continue to experience night vision problems long term. This is one of the risks of LASIK surgery.
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Is it possible for a doctor to over-correct my vision?
This is one potential LASIK risk. Over-correction is possible, but does not occur often. If it does occur, your doctor may be able to correct the problem with an enhancement.
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Could I get an infection from a laser vision correction procedure such as LASIK?
Yes. As with any surgical procedure, there is always a slight risk of infection. However, the laser beam itself cannot transmit infection. After the procedure, your doctor will probably provide you with prescription eye drops to guard against any post-procedure infection. If you use these drops as directed by your doctor, your risk of infection is slim.
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