Complications and Side Effects

The purpose of this information is not to terrorize patients by suggesting grotesque consequences. We would like to emphasize the rarity of the complications mentioned below. However, it is good for the patient to be sensitized to the fact that complications can occur, and that in fact, most complications have easy solutions.

The first possible complication is an eye(s) infection immediately following the procedure. We take due care to ensure that infections don’t get introduced into the eye as a result of the procedure itself. It is important that patients also follow instructions from the center’s staff and doctors carefully. Infections can be controlled by instilling antibiotic eye drops and other medicines. However, in extremely rare cases, severe loss of vision is possible.

The second possible complication of LASIK is the rare occurrence in which there are problems in fashioning the flap. This may include an incomplete flap, or a free cap or an irregular flap. Generally, the solution of these complications is to postpone the surgery and repeat it after 3 months, with little or no adverse consequences.

The third complication is in the flap-bed interface following LASIK. Sometimes, there can be inflammation in the interface, leading to a drop in vision. Sometimes, cells from the top surface of the flap (epithelium) migrate to the interface and grow there. Most times, lifting the flap and washing can solve these problems. In rare cases, the flap may need to be cut away (in which case, it becomes a PRK like procedure). In extremely rare cases, a corneal transplant may become necessary.

Another complication of LASIK is kerastecsia, or a bulging forward of the cornea due to excessive thinning. While we take care not to excessively thin the cornea, in rare cases, it can be spontaneous. This condition may lead to a severe drop in vision, and may be helped by wearing hard contact lenses or a corneal transplant.

Another complication of LASIK includes undercorrection or overcorrection (which may require an enhancement procedure), glare or haloes around lights, especially at night, dry eyes, and an increased sensitivity to pain.

In rare cases, the flap may shear off due to trauma suffered even several years after the procedure.

All this information is available in our informed consent form, which you will be required to sign before you undergo the procedure.