Doctors use laser surgery to treat and correct many eye conditions. As with any type of surgery, laser procedures on the eye may have side effects. Many of these problems gradually disappear as the eye heals. However, knowing the possible aftereffects may help decide if laser eye surgery will be the best option to treat an eye condition.
Vision
After most types of laser eye surgery, the patient will have blurry vision for most of the day. Some procedures, such as laser treatment for diabetic retinopathy, will require pupil dilation, states the National Eye Institute. This will cause blurry vision for a few hours. Other laser procedures, such as Lasik surgery, which reduces the dependence on eyeglasses, may cause blurry vision for a few days, though vision should gradually improve. Doctors will usually discuss the likelihood of blurry vision after the laser procedure. However, if vision does not gradually improve, or if a dark "curtain-like" area blocks off portions of the vision, the patient should contact the eye surgeon immediately.
Irritation
Laser procedures often cause surface irritation. Though each doctor will have a slightly different technique, some doctors will put a drop in the eye to numb the surface, and then place a special lens against the eye for a better view during the laser surgery. If the eye moves against the lens, a slight scratch or abrasion could occur, which may feel uncomfortable for a day or two afterward. Some laser surgeries will cause dry eye. Lasik surgery may cause this condition, reports the U.S. Food and Drug Administration. Over-the-counter artificial tears typically relieve discomfort and irritation. If pain occurs and symptoms do not ease, the patient should contact the eye doctor for an evaluation and possible treatment.
Floaters
The vitreous fills the back of the eye and has the consistency of jelly. Many people have small particles that float in the jelly, though most of the time they settle toward the bottom of the eye, out of vision. Occasionally these small fragments pass through the vision, looking like spots or thin threads, explains the U.S. National Library of Medicine. For some people, laser eye surgery will stir up the vitreous, causing floaters in the vision. This should not cause concern unless many new floaters fill the vision or a dark "curtain" blocks out a section of the vision. This could be a sign of a retinal detachment, and the person should have immediate medical attention to prevent permanent vision loss.
