Are There Any Potential Side Effects of Lasik?

Lasik is one of the most effective surgeries to restore perfect eyesight. If you wear eyeglasses because of refractive errors, such as nearsightedness and farsightedness, then you’re the ideal candidate for Lasik surgery. It’s a simple procedure wherein the doctor uses laser energy to make adjustments to your cornea, i.e., the transparent part of the eye. The procedure concludes within 30 minutes, following which you can resume your daily activities without eyeglasses. A single Lasik procedure liberates you from eyeglasses for decades, if not a lifetime.

 However, patients considering Lasik often ask, “are there any potential side effects of Lasik?” That’s a fair question.

 Lasik is an incredibly safe surgery with a nearly perfect success rate. However, like all surgeries, it has certain risks that you must take into consideration. You must also note that side effects are different from complications. Side effects are usually known and expected, and they’re generally resolved automatically during the healing process. However, complications are unintended problems that necessitate additional treatments. You must be aware of all the potential side effects and risks and weigh them against the benefits. 

 Potential Side Effects of LASIK

 Light Sensitivity: You’ll be sensitive to light for a few days after the procedure. That’s perfectly normal. You’ll receive a pair of sunglasses to protect your eyes from the glare of light, allowing you to navigate comfortably. However, you should avoid driving while this side effect persists.

 Discomfort: You’ll experience discomfort and slight pain in your eyes about 30 minutes after the procedure. However, the irritation only lasts for a few hours, and most patients can get through It by sleeping. By the time you awaken from your nap, the discomfort would have resolved itself.

 Itchiness: Your eyes might feel itchy and scratchy for a few days after the Lasik surgery. It might also feel like foreign substances of sand are caught in your eyes. However, the surgeon will provide some eye drops to handle the itchiness. Keep the artificial tears in the refrigerator — they’re even more soothing when they’re cold.

 Dryness: All patients experience dryness in the eyes after the surgery. The Lasik procedure temporarily affects your body’s natural tear production processes. The lack of natural tears will make your eyes feel dry and itchy. However, you can use the prescribed artificial tears to restore moisture and minimize dryness. Once your tear ducts resume function in a few days, you can stop using artificial tears.

 Light Halos: You might notice halos around light sources for a few days. It won’t interfere with your vision, and most patients achieve perfect vision immediately, but you shouldn’t be surprised by temporary light glares and halos. You might also experience mild visual fluctuations for a few days.

 If you’re considering a Lasik surgery, you must be a good candidate for the procedure, and you must contact the best ophthalmologists. Finding the right ophthalmologist dramatically reduces the risk of complications and side effects. Please schedule a consultation with Dr. Julia Giyaur to determine if you’re a suitable candidate for Lasik.