Risks and Complications Associated with LASIK Eye Surgery in India

LASIK (Laser-Assisted in Situ Keratomileusis) eye surgery is a common method for correcting vision issues like nearsightedness, farsightedness, and astigmatism. This surgery has been widely performed across India with a high success rate, however, like any other surgery, there are potential risks and complications that patients should be aware of before undergoing the procedure. In this article, we will discuss the risks and complications associated with LASIK eye surgery in India.

Over or Under Correction

One of the most common risks associated with LASIK eye surgery is over or under-correction. This occurs when the surgeon does not remove enough or too much corneal tissue during the procedure. Over-correction results in the patient having better than normal vision, while under-correction leads to the patient having blurry vision.

Dry Eye Syndrome

Dry eye syndrome occurs when the eyes do not generate enough tears to keep themselves moist. This can cause pain, irritation, and possibly vision difficulties. Dry eye syndrome is a common side effect of LASIK eye surgery, with some studies showing that up to 50% of patients experience this condition after the procedure.

Flap Complications

LASIK surgery involves creating a flap in the cornea, which is then lifted to expose the underlying tissue. The flap is then replaced after the procedure is completed. However, there can be complications with the flap creation, such as partial flaps, buttonholes, and free caps. These complications can lead to visual disturbances and may require additional surgeries to correct.

Infection

Infection is a potential complication of any surgery, including LASIK eye surgery. The risk of infection is low, but it can occur if proper hygiene and sterilisation protocols are not followed. Signs of infection include redness, pain, and discharge from the eye.

Halos, Glare, and Starbursts

Some patients may experience halos, glare, and starbursts after LASIK eye surgery. These visual disturbances can make it difficult to see in low light conditions, such as when driving at night. The severity of these side effects varies from patient to patient and can be temporary or permanent.

Corneal Ectasia

Corneal ectasia is a rare but serious complication of LASIK eye surgery. It occurs when the cornea becomes weakened and bulges out, causing vision problems. This condition can be difficult to treat and may require additional surgeries to correct.

Epithelial Ingrowth

Epithelial ingrowth is a disorder in which cells from the cornea's outer layer grow beneath the flap formed after LASIK surgery. This can create vision problems and may require extra surgery to fix.

Regression

Regression is a condition where the eye slowly returns to its original state of vision before LASIK eye surgery. This can occur in up to 20% of patients, and may require additional surgery to correct.

Under or Over Correction

One of the most common risks of LASIK eye surgery is under or over-correction. Over-correction means that the patient’s vision becomes better than normal, while under-correction means that the patient’s vision remains blurry even after the surgery. This happens when the surgeon does not remove the right amount of corneal tissue during the procedure.

Night Vision Problems

Night vision problems such as halos, glare, and starbursts can occur after LASIK eye surgery. This can make it difficult for patients to see in low light conditions, such as when driving at night. These side effects may be temporary or permanent and can vary in severity.

To sum up, LASIK eye surgery is a popular procedure that can provide patients with clearer vision and improve their quality of life. However, like any surgery, there are potential risks and complications that patients should be aware of before undergoing the procedure. It is important to discuss the potential risks and complications with your eye surgeon before deciding whether LASIK eye surgery is the right choice for you. To minimise the risks and complications of LASIK eye surgery, it is important to choose a qualified and experienced eye surgeon. Make sure to research the surgeon's credentials and experience before scheduling your surgery. Also, make sure to follow all preoperative and post-operative instructions provided by your surgeon to ensure a successful outcome.

In addition, it is important to have realistic expectations about the outcome of the surgery. While LASIK eye surgery can provide patients with clearer vision, it is not a guaranteed cure for all vision problems. Patients should discuss their expectations with their eye surgeon to ensure that they are realistic and achievable.

In summary, LASIK eye surgery is a safe and effective procedure for correcting vision problems, but it does come with potential risks and complications. Patients should discuss these risks and complications with their eye surgeon before deciding whether LASIK eye surgery is the right choice for them. By choosing a qualified and experienced eye surgeon, following all preoperative and postoperative instructions, and having realistic expectations about the outcome of the surgery, patients can minimise the risks and complications of LASIK eye surgery and enjoy the benefits of clearer vision.