Top 5 Risks of LASIK and Why TransPRK is a Better Option

Laser eye surgery has become a popular choice for those seeking freedom from glasses and contact lenses, with LASIK being one of the most well-known procedures. However, like any surgical procedure, LASIK comes with its own set of risks. For patients concerned about these potential drawbacks, TransPRK offers a safer alternative with many advantages. Let’s explore the top 5 risks associated with LASIK and why TransPRK might be a better option for long-term vision correction.

Flap Complications

**Risk**: LASIK involves creating a thin flap in the cornea, which is then lifted to allow the laser to reshape the underlying tissue. While this technique is effective, it comes with the risk of flap-related complications. These can include incomplete flaps, dislodged flaps, or irregular flaps, which can lead to visual disturbances or the need for additional surgery.

 TransPRK : TransPRK eliminates the need for a corneal flap altogether. Instead, it uses an all-laser, no-touch technique to reshape the cornea. Without the creation of a flap, there’s no risk of flap-related issues, making TransPRK a safer option, especially for those with thinner corneas or those who engage in high-impact activities.

Dry Eyes

**Risk**: Dry eye syndrome is a common side effect of LASIK. The creation of the corneal flap can disrupt the corneal nerves responsible for tear production, leading to decreased tear secretion. This can result in chronic dry eyes, which can be uncomfortable and, in severe cases, affect vision quality.

TransPRK: Because TransPRK doesn’t involve cutting into the cornea, it generally causes less disruption to the corneal nerves. This can reduce the likelihood of developing chronic dry eye syndrome after the procedure. For patients who are already prone to dry eyes, TransPRK may be a more suitable and comfortable option.

Visual Disturbances

**Risk**: Some patients experience visual disturbances after LASIK, such as halos, glare, or starbursts, especially at night. These issues are often related to the size and shape of the corneal flap or irregular healing. In some cases, these visual disturbances can persist for months or even years after surgery.

TransPRK: The no-flap technique of TransPRK reduces the chances of irregular healing, leading to more predictable and stable visual outcomes. Additionally, because the procedure is performed on the surface of the cornea, TransPRK allows for a smoother corneal shape, which can help minimize the risk of halos, glare, and other visual disturbances.

Overcorrection or Undercorrection

**Risk**: LASIK relies on precise measurements to reshape the cornea, but in some cases, the surgery may result in overcorrection or undercorrection. This means the patient’s vision may still be slightly nearsighted or farsighted after the procedure, requiring additional surgery or the continued use of glasses or contact lenses.

TransPRK: TransPRK’s approach allows for highly accurate reshaping of the cornea, with a lower risk of overcorrection or undercorrection. The procedure is particularly effective for patients with higher prescriptions, where precision is crucial for achieving optimal visual outcomes.

 Ectasia (Corneal Weakening)

**Risk**: One of the more serious complications of LASIK is ectasia, a condition where the cornea becomes weakened and bulges outward, leading to distorted vision. Ectasia is more likely to occur in patients with thin corneas or those who have undergone multiple LASIK procedures. This condition can require further surgery, such as corneal cross-linking or even a corneal transplant.

TransPRK: Because TransPRK doesn’t involve cutting a corneal flap, the structural integrity of the cornea is better preserved. This significantly reduces the risk of ectasia, making TransPRK a safer choice for patients with thinner corneas or those at higher risk of corneal weakening.

Why TransPRK may be the Better Option

While LASIK is a widely performed and effective procedure, it’s important to consider the potential risks before making a decision. For patients looking for a safer alternative with fewer complications, TransPRK offers several advantages. By avoiding the creation of a corneal flap, reducing the risk of dry eyes, and preserving the strength of the cornea, TransPRK provides a safer, more predictable, and often longer-lasting solution for vision correction. At The Goldberg Centre, Dr. Goldberg’s expertise in TransPRK ensures that you receive top-quality care with the best possible outcomes for your vision.

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