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LASIK Eye Surgery: Is it Safe?

Eye Care Institute, Laser Eye Surgery

eyes-with-laser-495751_640-300x200 LASIK eye surgery can repair or resolve various structural problems with the eye, allowing you to correct your vision permanently and eliminate the need for glasses or contact lenses. However, even though LASIK can be effective for patients, it is not without risks.

About LASIK

LASIK stands for “laser-assisted in-situ keratomileusis.” During this procedure, a surgeon uses a laser beam to correct certain problems with the eye by changing the shape of the cornea.

Some of the problems LASIK can treat include farsightedness, nearsightedness and astigmatism. If the surgery is successful, the patient will enjoy clearer, sharper vision after the procedure.

Possible Complications

Some of the complications that may occur with LASIK include:

  • Dry eyes. – LASIK may inhibit the eyes’ ability to produce tears temporarily.
  • Glares or halos. – Some patients may experience glares or halos around bright lights after the surgery.
  • Double vision. – Patients may develop double vision in rare cases.
  • Astigmatism. – Uneven tissue removal may lead to astigmatism.
  • Visual loss. – LASIK carries a small risk of vision loss.
  • Changes to vision. – Some people may experience some changes to their vision, such as blurriness.
  • Overcorrections. – If the surgeon removes too much tissue from the cornea, new vision problems may develop.
  • Undercorrections. – If the surgeon doesn’t remove enough tissue from the cornea, the surgery may not be completely successful.
  • Infection. – Some patients may develop an infection of the cornea after LASIK.
  • Inflammation. – The cornea may become inflamed and painful after the surgery.

Some patients may also notice that their vision slowly returns to the way it was prior to the surgery. This is especially common among patients who are pregnant or have a hormonal imbalance.

Results

Complications are possible after LASIK, but they are rare. According to the Mayo Clinic, more than 80 percent of people who have undergone LASIK no longer need to wear glasses or contacts to complete most of their daily activities. The Mayo Clinic also reports that most patients achieve 20/25 vision or better through this procedure.

How Much Does LASIK Cost?

The average cost of LASIK in the United States is $1,950 per eye. LASIK performed with newer technologies, such as IntraLase, may be more expensive. In addition, the cost of LASIK varies considerably by region and among surgeons.

If you have questions about LASIK eye surgery, our staff at Eye Care Institute would be happy to answer them. Please call us in Santa Rosa or complete our contact form below.

Further Reading:

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