Side Effects of LASIK
LASIK surgery has been proven to be safe and effective. Millions of people worldwide have successfully underwent LASIK and enjoyed visual freedom and improved lifestyles. But as with any surgery, complications can occur. Most side effects are mild and transient, and can include:1) Dry Eyes
Most people will feel that their eyes are dry after LASIK. This can be treated with lubricating eye drops and most of the symptoms will disappear within 3-6 months.
2) Fluctuating vision
During the immediate postoperative period, vision can fluctuate due to dryness and healing responses. This is a normal part of the recovery process before vision stabilises.
3) Halos & Glare
Some patients see halos and glare after LASIK, especially at night. This usually improves over time.
4) Inflammation
The eyes may sometimes be sore, red or inflamed depending on individual's response to surgery. This is usually self-limiting and can be treated with anti-inflammatory eyedrops if significant, More severe complications can occur which include:
Infection
As in any surgery, infection may occasionally occur in LASIK surgery. Fortunately, this is very rare. Mild infections can be easily treated without any visual consequence but a severe one can be potentially blinding. Antibacterial eyedrops will be given before and after surgery to prevent this.
Flap Complications
Rarely, the LASIK flap may sometimes be cut incompletely or irregularly. With Intralase bladeless LASIK, the incidence of these events is further reduced. When it does occur, laser ablation cannot proceed. The LASIK flap will have to be replaced and after complete healing, the procedure may be repeated again.
