We Are Change Austin

If you’re one of the thousands of individuals considering LASIK, Austin has many professionals who can help, but it’s essential that you understand the entire procedure before you make your final decision. There are a number of different complications that could occur with any LASIK procedure, and while most ophthalmologists in Austin will tell you that your risk of problems is less than five percent, knowing what could go wrong may be an essential factor for you before you actually take the plunge.

Perhaps the most common problem people have experienced after LASIK is a flap complication. When the procedure is actually performed, a hinged flap is created that covers the front of the cornea. The flap is lifted as the procedure occurs, then it’s replaced, and it serves as a sort of bandage for your eye in the das that follow. One of the biggest risks with the flap itself is creating a scratch on the surface of the eye. While that is a problem, newer techniques along with better training available for surgeons has significantly reduced problems for LASIK patients.

Another associated problem for some is when dead cells get lodged under the corneal flap. Called Diffuse Lamellar Keratitis, the cornea naturally assumes these cells could harm the eye itself, and as a result, inflammation occurs. That swelling can then create additional problems like scarring and permanent vision loss. As with other flap complications, though, this one can largely be resolved these days as long as prompt treatment is sought.

A few patients may also experience Keratectasia as a complication. This can occur when the flap is cut very deeply. The cornea can then weaken and bulge, and the result as a whole is a vision distortion that could remain unchanged, even with additional procedures.

In addition to flap complications, dry eye is one very common problem some people experience after LASIK. Fortunately, it’s an easy one to resolve. Artificial tears can be used on a temporary or ongoing basis to help avoid this fairly unpleasant side effect.

Night vision issues may also happen after LASIK. While these are most commonly associated with the older LASIK procedures, they can also happen when surgeons using the newest techniques treats a smaller area than necessary around the pupil. Fortunately, there are corrections available for this problem.

While rare, there are more serious possible complications. One is the creation of an irregular astigmatism. If the laser surgery isn’t performed properly, or the surface of your cornea wasn’t smooth to begin with, this condition can occur, and the result is often double vision. While double vision can be a side effect thanks to minor swelling after the surgery, this is not the same thing. Most patients who have this problem won’t find resolution within days after the surgery. The double vision will simply continue until more surgery is done to correct it.

In most cases, LASIK patients will never see a single complications, but gaining a better understanding of what can happen is essential to building a picture of whether LASIK is right for you.

Hill Country Eye Center
12171 W Parmer Lane Ste 201
Cedar Park, Texas 78613
(512) 528-1144