The 5 Biggest Side Effects or Risks of LASIK That Are Often Not Discussed

LASIK (Laser-Assisted In Situ Keratomileusis) is a popular vision correction surgery that has helped millions of people reduce their dependence on glasses and contact lenses. While LASIK boasts high satisfaction rates and generally positive outcomes, there are several potential side effects and risks that are not often discussed in detail. Here are the five biggest side effects or risks of LASIK that patients should be aware of before deciding to undergo the procedure.

Chronic Dry Eye Syndrome

One of the most common but less frequently discussed side effects of LASIK is chronic dry eye syndrome. During the LASIK procedure, nerves in the cornea are cut to create the flap. These nerves are responsible for signaling the brain to produce tears. When they are disrupted, it can lead to reduced tear production, resulting in dry eyes. Symptoms can include:
– Persistent dryness
– Burning or stinging sensations
– Grittiness or the feeling of a foreign object in the eye
– Blurred vision

For some patients, these symptoms can be long-lasting and may require ongoing treatment with artificial tears, prescription medications, or punctal plugs.

Night Vision Problems

Another significant but under-discussed side effect of LASIK is night vision problems. Many patients report experiencing:
– Halos: Rings of light that appear around light sources
– Starbursts: Radiating lines coming out from lights
– Glare: Increased sensitivity to bright lights

These issues are typically more noticeable in low-light conditions, such as driving at night. While some patients see improvement over time, others may continue to experience these symptoms indefinitely.

Visual Aberrations

LASIK can sometimes cause visual aberrations, which are distortions in vision that can affect clarity and sharpness. These can include:
– Double vision (diplopia)
– Ghost images or shadowing
– Difficulty with contrast sensitivity, making it hard to distinguish between different shades or colors

These aberrations can be particularly troublesome when trying to perform tasks that require sharp vision, such as reading or using a computer.

Flap Complications

The creation of the corneal flap during LASIK surgery can lead to several complications. These include:
– Flap dislocation: The flap can become displaced due to trauma or even from vigorous rubbing of the eyes.
– Flap wrinkles (striae): Small wrinkles can form in the flap, causing visual distortions.
– Epithelial ingrowth: Cells from the outer layer of the cornea can grow under the flap, potentially leading to inflammation and vision problems.

While flap complications are relatively rare, they can require additional surgical intervention to correct.

Regression and Residual Refractive Errors

Regression refers to the gradual return of nearsightedness, farsightedness, or astigmatism after LASIK. This can occur due to the cornea’s tendency to revert to its original shape over time. Residual refractive errors, on the other hand, are imperfections in the vision correction achieved during the initial procedure. These issues can necessitate further treatments, such as enhancement surgeries or the continued use of glasses or contact lenses.

While LASIK offers many benefits, it’s crucial for potential candidates to be fully informed about the possible side effects and risks. Chronic dry eye syndrome, night vision problems, visual aberrations, flap complications, and regression or residual refractive errors are significant concerns that are not always highlighted during consultations. Understanding these risks allows patients to make more informed decisions about their eye health and vision correction options.

If you’re considering LASIK, ensure you discuss these potential side effects with your ophthalmologist. Additionally, explore alternative procedures like TransPRK, which may offer fewer risks and side effects depending on your specific eye health and vision needs. By being fully informed, you can choose the best path to achieving optimal vision and maintaining long-term eye health.

Book your free consultation at transprk.ca/appointment