LASIK surgery is a type of corrective eye surgery that eliminates the need for further visual assistance such as eyeglasses or contact lenses. LASIK (an acronym for laser-assisted in situ keratomileusis) is performed when a doctor uses an eximer laser to change the shape and contour of the cornea. A small flap is created as the laser vaporizes and removes portions of the stroma. LASIK surgery is considered a permanent measure to restore vision to 20/20 or near perfect. There are still some risks involved.
Visual Aberrations
One of the most common complications resulting from LASIK eye surgery is different types of visual aberrations. Visual aberrations can be a direct result from the surgery. Symptoms include halos, starbursts, double vision, glare and contrast sensitivity issues. Some patients may also report having frequent low light and night vision problems. Some patients may or may not decide to have further surgery done to correct any of these complications.
Vision Disturbances
While many people recover from the surgery with few to no complications, others may have slight problems with their vision such as a haziness or cloudiness to their vision. This can arise from even the slightest touch of the laser that has irritated or slightly damaged the cornea. Another symptom may be a dry eye. While dry eye isn't a serious problem, it can be very irritating. Eye drops may have to be administered to help soothe the irritation caused by the excessive dryness.
Miscorrection
In some cases, a risk caused by LASIK surgery may include a variety of miscorrections. This could mean that the eye is either under corrected, over corrected or now has a residual astigmatism. This could also mean that the vision is blurry or the patient has trouble focusing on an object. Treatment options include a second LASIK surgery to correct the problem, eye drops, glasses or contact lenses.
Diffuse Lamellar Keratitis
This is a type of eye inflammation that can occur after a LASIK surgery. The cornea and the entire eye can become very inflamed and irritated. This is a serious but rare occurrence and can be troublesome and painful for patients. Eye drops may be prescribed, or an advanced conditioning of the eye involving a surgical rinsing may help with the pain and irritation.
Infection
With every LASIK surgery, there is a risk for developing an infection in and around the eye. The symptoms include redness within the eye or in the eye socket and an oozing of pus or discharge in the eye. An antibiotic eye drop and other oral medications may be prescribed in order to rid the eye of infection. A stronger antibiotic such as amoxicillin or penicillin may also be prescribed in addition to the drops.
