What is the safety risk for laser eye surgery?

There are a few potential risks associated with laser eye surgery, although the overall safety record of LASIK and other laser vision correction procedures is excellent. These risks include:

* Under or overcorrection: This is the most common risk of laser eye surgery, and it occurs when the laser removes too much or too little corneal tissue. This can result in blurred vision or other visual problems.

* Dry eyes: Laser eye surgery can cause the eyes to become dry, especially in the first few weeks after surgery. This is usually temporary and can be treated with artificial tears.

* Glare: Some patients experience glare or halos around lights after laser eye surgery. This is usually temporary and goes away within a few months.

* Retinal detachment: This is a serious complication that can occur after laser eye surgery, although it is very rare. Retinal detachment occurs when the retina separates from the back of the eye. This can lead to severe vision loss if not treated promptly.

* Corneal ectasia: This is a condition in which the cornea becomes abnormally thin and weakened. This can lead to vision problems such as blurred vision, double vision, and ghosting. Corneal ectasia is a very rare complication of laser eye surgery, but it is more common in patients with certain risk factors, such as those with thin corneas or a history of eye trauma.

It is important to discuss these risks with your eye doctor before deciding whether to have laser eye surgery. Your doctor will also evaluate your eyes to determine if you are a good candidate for the procedure and will recommend the best type of laser eye surgery for you.