LASIK Surgery Risks: When LASIK Doesn't Go As Planned

LASIK surgery is one of the most common elective procedures for correcting vision problems. Millions of patients have experienced improved vision and enjoyed freedom from glasses and contact lenses after undergoing this laser eye surgery.

While LASIK has a high success rate, it is not without potential risks. Some patients experience side effects or complications that may affect their vision. Understanding the possible outcomes of LASIK eye surgery helps patients make an informed decision about their eye health.

LASIK (Laser-Assisted In Situ Keratomileusis) is a type of refractive surgery that reshapes the cornea to correct vision problems such as nearsightedness, farsightedness, and astigmatism. The procedure involves creating a thin corneal flap, lifting it, and using a laser to remove microscopic amounts of corneal tissue. The flap is then repositioned to allow the eye to heal naturally.

Performed by an experienced eye surgeon, LASIK is considered a safe medical procedure for many patients. However, like any surgical procedure, it carries potential complications and requires careful evaluation before treatment.

For many patients, LASIK delivers clear vision with minimal side effects. The procedure has high satisfaction rates, with most patients reporting significant improvement in visual acuity and reduced need for corrective eyewear.

Still, LASIK is not risk-free. The safety of the LASIK procedure depends on patient selection, surgeon experience, and adherence to aftercare. Certain eye conditions and systemic health issues, such as rheumatoid arthritis, can increase the likelihood of complications. Safety also relies on patients attending follow-up appointments and following recovery instructions.

Not everyone is an ideal candidate for laser eye surgery. Good candidates usually:

• Have stable prescriptions for at least a year
  

• Have healthy corneas and no active eye diseases
  

• Are free from significant refractive errors that may limit results

Patients who may not be suitable for LASIK include those with thin corneas, advanced eye conditions, or autoimmune disorders.

Individuals with severe dry eyes or unstable prescriptions may also face higher potential risks. A consultation with an eye doctor is essential to determine eligibility.

One of the most common LASIK eye surgery side effects is dry eyes. The procedure can temporarily reduce tear production, leading to discomfort. Most cases improve within a few weeks using lubricating eye drops.

Patients may notice blurred vision or double vision immediately after surgery. While unsettling, these effects often resolve as the healing process continues.

Temporary glare, halos, or starbursts around lights are common, especially at night. These issues usually decrease as vision stabilizes.

Temporary glare, halos, or starbursts around lights are common, especially at night. These issues usually decrease as vision stabilizes.

Although many patients achieve clear vision, some may still need glasses or contact lenses for reading or driving at night.

Improper healing of the corneal flap can lead to discomfort or vision issues. These LASIK complications are rare but more serious.

Though uncommon, eye infection or inflammation of the cornea can occur if aftercare is neglected. Prompt use of prescribed eye drops reduces this risk.

This rare but serious condition involves thinning of the cornea after LASIK. It may require additional surgery or the use of specialty lenses to restore vision.

In rare cases, patients may experience partial vision loss or nerve damage. These outcomes are uncommon when the surgical procedure is performed by a qualified surgeon.

Some patients require enhancement procedures or additional treatment if their vision does not stabilize as expected.

The recovery process is usually quick, with many patients noticing improved vision the same day. However, full stabilization can take several weeks.

In general, most patients resume daily activities within a day or two. Although vision often fluctuates during the first few weeks. Follow-up appointments are crucial for monitoring healing. Attending appointments and following post-op instructions reduces the risk of side-effects.

During the recovery period, patients may experience temporary light sensitivity, dryness, or fluctuating clarity. The eye’s corneal nerves gradually regenerate, and most patients achieve stable visual acuity after the healing process is complete.

Patients can minimize LASIK surgery risks by:

• Choosing an experienced eye surgeon with strong outcomes
  

• Undergoing thorough screening to confirm candidacy
  

• Following post-op instructions carefully, including prescribed eye drops
  

• Wearing protective eyewear and avoiding contact sports during healing
  

• Attending all follow-up appointments

These steps help prevent serious complications and support long-term eye health.

A patient should contact their eye doctor immediately if any of the following occur:

• Severe pain or worsening discomfort
  

• Signs of an eye infection such as redness, swelling, or discharge
  

• Sudden vision loss or significant blurring
  

• Persistent double vision or unexplained sensitivity to light
  

Prompt evaluation allows the surgeon to address potential complications before they become more serious.

While uncommon, there are cases of LASIK eye surgery gone wrong. If complications occur, patients may require additional surgery, specialty contact lenses, or other forms of treatment.

In some cases, vision correction may still require glasses or contact lenses. It’s important to seek a second opinion if recovery does not progress as expected. Clear communication with the surgeon ensures that many patients find workable solutions, even after complications.

Patients who are not good candidates for LASIK have other options for correcting vision problems. These include:

• PRK (Photorefractive Keratectomy) – A type of refractive surgery that does not involve a corneal flap.
  

• LASEK (Laser-Assisted Subepithelial Keratectomy) – Similar to PRK but preserves the thin epithelial layer, which is repositioned after laser treatment.
  

• SMILE (Small Incision Lenticule Extraction) – A minimally invasive procedure that reshapes the cornea through a tiny incision without creating a flap.
  

• Implantable Contact Lenses (ICL) – An option for patients with high prescriptions or thin corneas.
  

• Refractive Lens Exchange (RLE) – Replaces the eye’s natural lens with a clear artificial lens.

These alternatives may provide safer outcomes for patients with certain eye conditions. Discussing options with an experienced surgeon ensures a clear understanding of the best path forward.