Is LASIK Dangerous?

If you’re considering LASIK,you’ve probably asked yourself: "Is it safe?" It’s a fair question. After all, your eyesight is precious. The good news? LASIK is one of the most researched and successful elective procedures in the world. But let’s break it down and address the risks, myths, and facts.

Understanding LASIK Safety

LASIK (Laser-Assisted In Situ Keratomileusis) has been around for over 30 years, helping millions of people ditch their glasses and contact lenses. Studies show that over 96% of patients achieve 20/20 vision or better after surgery. The procedure is performed using advanced laser technology with high precision, making it both effective and safe.

Common Misconceptions About LASIK

There’s a lot of misinformation out there. Let’s clear up some of the biggest myths

• Myth: LASIK can make you go blind.
  • Fact: The risk of severe complications leading to vision loss is extremely low—less than 1 in 5 million cases.
• Myth: The laser can burn your eyes.
  • Fact: The laser used in LASIK is designed to reshape the cornea, not burn tissue. It operates with extreme precision and stops automatically if needed.
• Myth: LASIK is painful.
  • Fact: Most patients report feeling only slight pressure during the procedure. Numbing drops ensure you don’t experience pain.

What Are the Risks?

Like any surgical procedure, LASIK does come with some risks. However, serious complications are rare. Here are some potential side effects:

• Dry Eyes – Some patients experience dry eyes for a few months post-surgery. Artificial tears usually help, and symptoms typically resolve over time.
• Halos or Glare – Night vision disturbances, like halos around lights, can occur but usually improve as the eyes heal.
• Undercorrection or Overcorrection – In rare cases, additional enhancement surgery may be needed.
• Flap Complications – Since LASIK involves creating a thin flap in the cornea, there is a small risk of flap-related issues. However, with today’s advanced laser technology, this risk is minimal.

Who Is at Higher Risk?

LASIK may not be suitable for everyone. You might not be a good candidate if you:

• Have severe dry eyes
• Have a very high prescription
• Have thin or irregular corneas
• Have certain medical conditions like uncontrolled diabetes or autoimmune diseases

How to Minimise Risks

To ensure the best results, choose an experienced surgeon and undergo a thorough consultation. A detailed pre-op assessment will determine if LASIK is right for you.

At Vision Laser, we prioritise patient safety. Our team uses cutting-edge diagnostics to ensure every patient is a suitable candidate before recommending treatment.

LASIK is a safe and effective way to achieve clear vision without glasses. The risks are minimal compared to the potential benefits. If you’re tired of dealing with glasses or contacts, it might be worth exploring whether LASIK is right for you.

The best way to find out? Take our quick Suitability Self-Test and see if LASIK is a good option for you!