Find us on Social Media:

LASIK
What is it? Overview Usage Side Effects and Warnings
Answers

What is LASIK?

Click here to view an animated version of this procedure.

LASIK is done to eliminate the need for glasses or contact lenses.

Most people who get LASIK will still need reading glasses at middle age and beyond to correct for presbyopia (decreased ability to focus due to age). Be sure to discuss presbyopia with your doctor prior to getting LASIK so that you understand how it will affect your vision.

Possible Complications

LASIK eye surgery has a relatively low complication rate, but they can occur. Possible complications include, but are not limited to:

  • Under- or over-correction of the cornea shape
  • Infection
  • Scarring
  • Fuzzy or blurry vision
  • Poor night vision
  • Seeing halos or sunbursts around light/glare
  • Long-term dryness, scratchiness, or pain in eyes
  • Correction may not last
  • Permanent decrease or loss of vision that cannot be corrected with glasses or contact lenses
  • Need for additional laser or surgery

Some factors that may increase the risk of complications include:

  • Pre-existing eye disease (such as glaucoma ) or abnormalities in the shape of the cornea (such as keratoconus)
  • Persistent eye infections (such...
 
Share