LASIK stands for Laser-Assisted In Situ Keratomileusis – sounds a little scary and indeed, it is a procedure that permanently changes the shape of the cornea. Cutting a “flap” in this clear covering of the front of the eye, by using a laser or by a precision knife called a microkeratome, does this. Once a flap is made in the cornea, it is folded back and the surgeon alters the eye to correct the person’s vision, and then the flap is replaced. For the most part, this change is permanent.

Though it sounds complicated, it has been performed many thousands of times – perhaps millions worldwide - and people are thrilled with the results of their refractive surgery. In fact, it is one of the most common and routine elective surgeries.

But, a good and professional doctor will always, always warn of possible complications during surgery. Every medical procedure has risks involved, and even though they might only be a small percentage, it’s important for candidates to understand what they could be.

Under treatment And Under treatment

Even with the precision of Lasik, very few patients actually achieve perfect 20/20 vision with Lasik without the additional use of glasses or contacts. This may not be an issue, since most people are okay with 20/30 vision or some other combination that suits them perfectly, with or without lenses. A patient may be able to get closer to their goal – should the first procedure not induce the perfect result – with a secondary or tertiary surgery. However, for other reasons, which will be mentioned below, a patient may not be able to continue with more procedures and that leaves him or her to live with the original results.

A note here: generally, Lasik results are not easily obtained with patients who have very large refractive issues. The doctor can determine this.

Dry Eye Syndrome

This is one of the most common complaints of Lasik, among the few who have complications. The procedure sometimes causes the eye to be unable to produce enough natural tears to keep the eye buffered, moist and comfortable. This condition may be permanent, and might require intensive drop therapy and the use of plugs, or other procedures to correct the problem.