Is LASIK 100% Safe?

How Safe is LASIK Eye Surgery? 

LASIK is a popular laser eye surgery chosen by many as it is quick, safe, and effective. Nevertheless, people often wonder if LASIK is completely safe. While it is generally safe, potential risks include dry eyes, glare, halos, under-correction or overcorrection, and, in rare cases, infection. 

It is important to know both the benefits and the potential side effects before making the decision. Consulting a trusted and experienced eye surgeon can assist you in making the right decision.

What is LASIK?

LASIK ('laser in-situ keratomileusis') is a type of laser eye surgery that allows people whose sight is poor not to wear glasses or contact lenses to see better. During the procedure, the eye doctor will use a specialised laser to reshape the cornea. The cornea is the front part of the eye that helps focus light onto the retina. 

An irregularly shaped cornea can lead to blurry vision. LASIK helps fix this by reshaping the cornea, allowing for better focus. Most people, however, have better vision within a day, and this is a pretty quick surgery, only a few minutes. LASIK is fast, safe, and gives great results, and many people prefer LASIK.

Is Laser Eye Surgery 100% Safe?

Laser eye surgery, however, such as LASIK, is quite safe for most people. For LASIK, the majority of doctors use advanced tools and follow strict regulations. The problem is that most patients see better and do not have any serious problems. But, no surgical procedure is entirely without risk

. 
As you might contemplate, some people have side effects, even dry eyes, glare, or blurry vision. Usually, these go away in time. Some will even require a second treatment or still require glasses. However, it is important to talk with a good eye doctor before the surgery. Go for LASIK surgery only if the eye surgeon ensures that the eyes are healthy, and choosing LASIK will be beneficial.

Risks and Complications of LASIK Surgery

Similar to any medical procedure, there are certain risks and complications of LASIK surgery. Patients must be aware of those potential issues before choosing to undergo LASIK. Here are the risks and complications:

• Dry Eyes: Dry eyes are one of the common side effects of LASIK, and it typically resolves with time and the proper use of eye drops.
• Fluctuations in Vision: In some cases, vision can fluctuate before stabilising to the desired level of clarity. 
• Halos and Glare: Some patients might experience halos and glare, especially while driving and reading at night. These symptoms, however, can improve over a period of a few months. 
• Under-correction and Overcorrection: In rare cases, full vision correction may not be performed. This can be addressed through an enhancement procedure. 
• Infection: Though rare, infection can happen with LASIK. Strictly adhering to post-surgery care instructions can help minimise the risk.  

Who Can Choose LASIK Surgery?

LASIK surgery is a famous treatment for correcting vision, but it might not be suitable for everyone. Understanding who should opt for this surgery is crucial to ensure safety, effectiveness and long-term success. 

Here are the eligibility criteria for those who can opt for LASIK surgery:

• The individual should be at least 18 years of age or older, as prescriptions usually stabilise after attaining this age.
• A diagnosed refractive error is required. 
• If there is a problem with dry eye, it needs to be corrected before the procedure.
• Individuals with a history of corneal diseases like keratoconus, whether past or active, are not suitable candidates for LASIK surgery.
• Changes in hormones during pregnancy and nursing can impact vision. Hence, doctors do not prescribe LASIK during this period.

Things to Consider Before Choosing LASIK Surgery

Before choosing a LASIK surgery, make sure to consider the following factors:

• Cost: Undergoing LASIK is a significant investment. The cost of LASIK surgery in India differs depending on the type of procedure and clinic. Standard LASIK ranges from Rs. 25,000 to Rs. 55,000 per eye, while advanced procedures like Contoura Vision can cost between Rs. 70,000 and Rs. 1,20,000 per eye.
• Reputation of Clinic: Select a clinic consisting of highly experienced surgeons with a record of successful procedures.
• Long-Term Results: LASIK usually provides permanent results. Undergoing any age-related changes, such as presbyopia, might need reading glasses later on. 

LASIK is a very safe and effective eye surgery for most people. The procedure is often enjoyed by many patients who have little or no problems and enjoy clear vision. But there is no such thing as a risk-free surgery. 

For some, the side effects could be mild, and for some, a few may need further treatment. A good set of eyes is important, and you should follow your doctor's advice. It is a life-changing solution for better vision in as much as it can be done with the right care and guidance.

Also Read:

→ What does LASIK Surgery do

→ Does LASIK Hurt Night Vision

→ Can Vision Go Bad After LASIK

→ Does LASIK Change Eye Colour