Side Effects of LASIK Eye SurgeryLasik stands for “Laser in-situ keratomileusis”. It is used to correct vision in farsighted, nearsighted, or astigmatism people. People who are tired of the hassle of eyeglasses or contact lenses undergo this procedure.
In eyes with normal vision, the cornea refracts light precisely onto the retina at the back of the eye. Glasses or contact lenses can correct the vision, but LASIK eye surgery can correct the vision for once. The cornea is the outer protective layer of the eye while the retina is the part of the eye where light is focused and visual signals are interpreted to the brain.
Usually, glasses or contact lenses are used to correct the vision by bending (refracting) the light rays. Now, newer and innovative surgery included reshaping the cornea. LASIK surgery modifies the cornea shape to focus light properly on the retina.
Most Common Side Effects of LASIK Eye Surgery
LASIK surgery is generally a safe procedure and the complications are rare. But, as every cloud has a silver lining, LASIK eye surgery too can bring certain side effects.
1. Dry Eyes
One of the major side effects of LASIK eye surgery is dry eyes. The surgery causes a temporary decrease in tear production. Usually, the eyes remain dry for about the first six months after the surgery. Dry eyes can cause the vision to be blurred and reduces the quality of sight.
The doctors usually recommend eye drops for dry eyes. In case, the eyes get severely dry, the patient can opt for the procedure of getting special plugs that can produce tear ducts. The tear ducts prevent the tears from draining away and the eye dryness reduces.
2. Astigmatism
LASIK eye surgery may cause astigmatism due to uneven tissue removal. Astigmatism occurs due to mismatched curves on the cornea. In this condition, another laser appointment is required. Such issues occur rarely.
3. Under Corrections
LASIK surgery success depends upon the competence of the eye doctor and the quality of the laser. If the laser removes too little portion of the tissue from the eye, you would not be able to get the vision quality, you have desired. Under corrections occur usually in people with nearsightedness. Again, in this situation, another LASIK surgery is required.
4. Over Corrections
If the LASER surgery removes too much of the tissue from the eye, overcorrection occurs. It is a much more complicated situation than the under correction. You have to consult your eye doctor and proceed with the treatment to overcome this.
5. Flap Problems
Infection and excess tears are two issues that can occur when the flap from the cornea is folded or removed. This problem can cause abnormal growth of the outermost corneal tissue layer when the patients get in the recovery phase.
6. Regression
Regression occurs when it takes longer than a day or two (original prescription) for your eye to regain normal vision. This complication rarely occurs.
7. Vision Issues
Sometimes, even when a good visual test is measured according to the standards set, you can experience issues in vision in dim light. You may experience night-time vision difficulty after the LASER is done. Issues like light sensitivity, glare & halos around bright light, or double vision occur. The sights appear foggy and blur. The problem usually lasts for a few days to a week and vision is improved.
8. Vision Loss or Changes
In rare conditions, the LASER procedure can result in the loss of vision. People may not be able to see sharply or clearly.
Conclusion
We have listed all the possible Side effects that can occur due to LASIK eye surgery. The incidence of occurrence of such effects is low. LASIK surgery is said to be as effective as ninety-six percent. If you’re concerned that such side effects may occur to you, consult a well-reputed eye surgeon for your LASIK procedure and if any severe side effect occurs, immediately consult the doctor.