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LASIK eye surgery - Risks

Alternative Names

Laser-Assisted In Situ Keratomileusis; Laser vision correction

Risks:

A small percentage of people may need to have another surgery because the condition is over- or under-corrected. Sometimes, you will still need to wear contact lenses or glasses.

Risks may include:

  • Corneal infection
  • Corneal scarring or permanent problems with the cornea's shape, making it impossible to wear contact lenses
  • Decrease in contrast sensitivity -- even with 20/20 vision, objects may appear fuzzy or gray
  • Dry eyes
  • Glare or haloes
  • Light sensitivity
  • Night driving problems
  • Patches of red or pink in the white of the eye (usually temporary)
  • Reduced vision or permanent vision loss
  • Scratchiness
  • Reviewed last on: 5/24/2010
  • Linda J. Vorvick, MD, Medical Director, MEDEX Northwest Division of Physician Assistant STudies, University of Washington, School of Medicine; and Franklin W. Lusby, MD, Ophthalmologist, Lusby Vision Institute, La Jolla, California. Also reviewed by David Zieve, MD, MHA, Medical Director, A.D.A.M., Inc.

References

Wilkinson PS, Davis EA, Hardten DR. LASIK. In: Yanoff M, Duker JS, eds. Ophthalmology. 3rd ed. St. Louis, Mo: Mosby Elsevier; 2008:chap 3.5.

American Academy of Ophthalmology Refractive Management/Intervention Panel. Preferred Practice Pattern Guidelines. Refractive Errors & Refractive Surgery. 2007. Accessed May 2, 2010.

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