All surgical procedures inherently contain some level of risk. It is therefore necessary to weigh the risks versus the benefits when contemplating surgery. Most procedures are performed because they are medically necessary, but laser refractive surgery is an optional choice of vision correction. This is one of the reasons why it is very important for people to understand the appropriate risks and expectations when undergoing treatments such as LASIK. Proper education by an eye doctor is critical when considering any type of eye surgery.
LASIK Risks
LASIK is one of many refractive surgeries that can reduce a person's dependency on glasses or contacts lenses. One of the other common refractive surgeries is termed PRK, and both procedures are performed using a laser that reshapes the cornea. A thin flap is created with LASIK, which is then raised in order to treat the underlying corneal tissue. The flap is resituated after treatment to minimize surface irritation. PRK does not utilize a flap, and therefore blur and discomfort may exist initially before the surface tissue fully heals. PRK can be beneficial due to the high level of accuracy that can be achieved, and also because LASIK may not be an option for people with extremely thin corneas. Refractive eye surgery can be very effective, but patients should understand that after the surgery they may experience dry eye symptoms and the need for glasses in certain situations. After age 40, most people require reading glasses if they achieve 20/20 distance vision with laser surgery. It should also be understood that complications and infections can arise, and that is why it is critical to have an experienced eye surgeon and to follow the directions during pre- and postoperative care.
Cataract Surgery Risks
Cataract surgery is often recommended once the crystalline lens inside the eye becomes cloudy to the point that vision is blurry. There are different types of cataracts, but the most common type is age-related cataracts that develop due to factors such as sunlight exposure over the course of one's life. Eye doctors will often monitor the progression of cataract development before recommending surgery because it may take many years before the vision is significantly affected. The most significant risk involved with cataract surgery is endophthalmitis, which is a severe infection that can occur with eye surgery. Antibiotic and anti-inflammatory eyedrops are utilized along with enhanced surgical techniques to reduce the risk of infection. Patients should also realize that glasses will likely still be required after cataract surgery, and that vision issues may still be present when other eye disorders exist.
Other Specialized Eye Surgeries
Certain eye disorders may require specialized surgical procedures. Corneal transplants are highly sophisticated surgeries that are performed as a last resort for people who have significant corneal irregularities. Endophthalmitis and graft rejection are two of the severe risks that can occur with corneal transplant surgery. New techniques have allowed for individual layers of the cornea to be replaced, but some reduction of visual quality is to be expected with these patients. Retinal surgery is another intricate eye surgery that involves repair of the thin retinal tissue that lines that back, inside of the eye like wallpaper. Retinal surgeries can involve laser treatment, cryotherapy, injection of a gas bubble into the eye, and various other intraocular procedures. Infection is always a considerable risk, as well as permanent damage to the retina. Glaucoma surgery is another series of specialized eye procedures that are performed to decrease intraocular pressure inside the eye. Infection and permanent visual damage is a risk with all eye surgeries, but these medically necessary procedures are only performed when an abnormal condition is placing the eye at risk.
