Risks of LASIK
How Can I Minimize the Risks of Having Refractive Eye Surgery?
Ophthalmologists have been performing LASIK surgery for over twenty years. Since becoming FDA approved, LASIK has only continued improving and evolving as a procedure. Both equipment and eye surgical techniques have evolved, and LASIK surgery is considered very safe. The doctors at Stahl Eyecare Experts in New York City have together performed over 40,000 successful LASIK cases with high patient satisfaction. They now proudly offer All-Laser LASIK, which is the most state-of-the-art technology available. All-Laser LASIK has improved patient safety even further than traditional microkeratome LASIK. Microkeratome LASIK was traditionally performed using a blade, which leads to more complications.
It is very important to feel confident that you have a qualified and experienced eye surgeon when you are considering LASIK. The skilled LASIK surgeons at Stahl Eyecare Experts have all completed advanced eye fellowship training at Harvard, Yale, and Johns Hopkins. These are some of the most respected training programs in the United States.
As you investigate LASIK, you may find LASIK surgeons in Manhattan who advertise rock-bottom prices. Usually, there are hidden costs, or adequate follow-up examinations are not included. Such doctors may not be responsible if you have a problem after having LASIK. Bargain basement pricing is fine for buying clothes or shoes, but not for surgery on your only pair of eyes! LASIK surgery is a big investment in your future, and you will only have this surgery once in a lifetime. Your eyes and vision are a precious asset, and you should not take a chance on a poor-quality result. Choose a board-certified experienced LASIK surgeon that you can trust at Stahl Eyecare Experts.
Possible Complications of LASIK
There are risks and complications with every eye surgery, including LASIK and PRK. Some complications of LASIK are temporary, while some can be serious and permanent. The risk of a serious complication is low (less than 5% with All-LASIK), but it can happen to some patients. Responsible LASIK surgeons have low complication rates because they only select patients who are good candidates. This means that they meet the appropriate criteria for success regarding age, health, and condition of the cornea.
Your ophthalmologist at Stahl Eyecare Experts will thoroughly examine your eyes and review your medical history. Every patient is different, and some patients have a higher chance of success or risk of complications than others. Your doctor will discuss the risks and benefits of refractive surgery with you and answer any questions that you may have.
The potential problems with LASIK and PRK are very similar. The major difference is that PRK does not involve creating a corneal flap. PRK is often a better choice for patients who do not qualify for LASIK since there is no risk of flap complications. These are some complications that you should understand before having surgery. These include the following:
- Dry Eye
- Scratchiness
- Glare and halos
- Problems with night driving
- Light sensitivity
- Under correction of vision causing the need for a second “enhancement” surgery
- Overcorrection of vision which may be difficult to change
- Decrease in contrast sensitivity, so that objects appear fuzzy or gray
- Corneal infection
- Corneal scarring
- Permanent vision loss
The Importance of Following Instructions for Follow-up Care
To have the best chance of an excellent visual outcome, you must follow your doctor’s orders and recommendations before and after surgery. Patient compliance is very important in reducing the risk of complications.
Attending all follow-up appointments are essential to having successful LASIK or PRK surgery. Don’t skip these appointments even if everything seems fine. If you have any questions or concerns, let your ophthalmologist know.
