Lasik Complications – The Risks Of Refractive SurgeryThere have been so many Lasik complications reported that one may wonder if it's a safe procedure to improve vision. The surgery itself is usually not the problem, but afterwards negative effects may occur. It is important to be aware of these risks before you decide to undergo Lasik. First of all, it is important to realize that refractive surgery is not for everybody. Generally it is not recommended for people with eye diseases, diabetes, autoimmune or vascular disease. Also, pregnant women should stay away from it. The shape of your eye might also be a reason not to undergo Lasik. If your pupils are too big you are probably not a good candidate as well because of halo risks after the operation. Obviously, you need to consult your eye doctor before you decide. If a full examination has convinced you and your physician that you're a suitable candidate for Lasik, you need to be informed about the Lasik complications that might occur after surgery. Most Common Complications1. The most frequently reported complication are dry eyes. Read more about here: Dry Eye After LASIK - Do You Need To Worry? In 2001, researchers found that 48% of the patients reported symptoms of dry eyes six months or more after surgery. This includes people with pain, soreness and eyelids that stick to the eyeball. More recent surveys have reported similar numbers. There are ways to alleviate pain and other symptoms, but it cannot be cured since refractive surgery is irreversible. On one hand, you may be able to see without glasses or contact lenses, but on the other hand, unnatural halos and glares might appear and reduce the overall visual quality, particularly at nights. Statistics say no less than 18 percent of the people who underwent Lasik report this complication. 3. Lasik may sound like a good myopia solution, but it does not prevent you from needing reading glasses when you are over 40. In fact, it increases the need for reading glasses. This is because Lasik changes the focus of the eye from near to distance. One survey cynically reported that patients over 40 may discover they have traded one pair of glasses for another. 4. Lasik damages the human cornea. Damaging the body to perform surgery is obvious, but unlike the human skin, the cornea is not capable of healing completely. The strength of the cornea is also affected. This is not sure to cause serious problems, but fact is that it makes your eyes much more vulnerable. Other Lasik complications that have been reported are infections, nerve damage, irregular flaps amongst others. Also, the positive effect of Lasik is sometimes lost over several months. Research shows that 10 percent do not experience any improvement of vision after surgery and need retreatment called Lasik enhancement. Read more about it here: LASIK Enhancement - Does It Always Improve Your Vision?
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