LASIK complications

It is important to recognize the difference between side effects and LASIK complications. LASIK complications involve things that can happen to your eyes or vision during surgery or shortly after surgery. They are rare and typically occur while the surgeon is creating the LASIK flap.

Flap complications typically occur in less that 1% of all LASIK cases and usually involve either an incomplete or irregular flap, a misalignment of the flap or similar complication. These occur before the laser is used to ablate the eye; while the surgeon is using a device to make the flap, called a microkeratome.

In addition, post-operative infection can occur in any surgical procedure, including LASIK. Your doctor will likely recommend eye drops to avoid this complication.

By contrast, side effects are a normal part of the healing process, usually temporary and treated with the medications your surgeon prescribes. They usually begin to lessen just days following your procedure.

Some possible side effects can include slight corneal swelling, eye dryness or the feeling of dryness, light sensitivity and blurring of vision. Again, side-effects are usually the result of your eye's natural healing process and should go away within a few days. Be sure to discuss potential side effects with your doctor.

The FDA: LASIK Safety

The FDA has determined that LASIK surgery, when performed correctly on the appropriate candidates and under the right conditions, is proven effective and safe. The risks of LASIK are well documented, because the U.S. government requires manufacturers to prove LASIK is a reliable and sound procedure.

To make this determination, the FDA requires that companies conduct clinical trials demonstrating the safe and effective performance of their laser systems. During these trials, a significant number of patients have laser vision correction, and their results are studied to reveal common LASIK risks, side effects, and interactions.