What Are Some Side Effects of LASIK?
For patients who are tired of relying on glasses and contact lenses to correct their vision, LASIK can be a great choice. The surgery is designed for people with nearsightedness, farsightedness, or astigmatism. Best of all, patients can experience a dramatic improvement in their vision almost immediately after LASIK.
While the doctors in our Chicago, IL, office routinely perform the procedure, there are LASIK side effects that patients should know about beforehand. During a consultation, we will first determine if you are a candidate. Once you qualify, we will go over the procedure in detail to ensure you have the best possible experience.
The LASIK Procedure
When a patient visits our optometry office for LASIK, the doctor first numbs the eye to minimize discomfort. A specialized instrument is used to create a circular flap in the cornea’s surface. The doctor then uses a laser to reshape the cornea and improve the patient’s vision.
After surgery, some patients have an immediate, noticeable improvement with their sight. However, for others, it can take three to six months before their vision is stable. Some patients may still need glasses or contacts after surgery, while others do not.
Common Side Effects
The majority of patients who visit our Chicago, IL, practice for LASIK surgery tolerate the procedure well. As with any procedure, each patient is unique and will have a different experience. These are some of the most typical side effects.
Increased Light Sensitivity
After surgery, some patients might experience increased light sensitivity. This can occur due to the corneal tissue being swollen following LASIK. Patients might find themselves looking away from the sun and light fixtures. Wearing sunglasses outdoors and dimming the lights indoors can be helpful.
Difficulty Seeing in the Dark
For several days or a few weeks following the procedure, you may have difficulty seeing in the dark. Individuals might see halos, glares, and starbursts when looking at lights, such as headlights. Some patients might have to refrain from driving at night until this side effect subsides.
Dry Eyes
For the first six months or so, patients who undergo LASIK might suffer from dry eyes. The procedure can cause reduced tear production, which can make the eyes feel unusually dry. Additionally, when the eyes are dry, a patient’s vision might not be as sharp. To minimize this side effect, the doctor might recommend lubricating eye drops.
Flap Problems
Patients might face problems with the flap that was manipulated during the surgery. Pain, sensitivity, haziness, or redness that doesn’t resolve in a few days could be signs of an infection. Increased tear production may also be an issue. Call our office for an appointment or bring up your concerns at your follow-up visit.
Overcorrections and Undercorrections
Just like with any surgery, LASIK can produce varying results. Blurriness is a common sign of overcorrection or undercorrection.
Undercorrection occurs when too little corneal tissue is removed. The result is that the patient’s vision is not improved to an optimal degree. Patients might require further treatment in this case. In contrast, when too much tissue is removed, it is called overcorrection. In some situations, overcorrection is treatable.
Learn More about LASIK
Do you want to learn more about the LASIK procedure? You can contact our Chicago, IL practice online, or give us a call at (773) 376-2020 for more information about the surgery and to find out if you qualify.
