Advantages and Risks of LASIK Eye Surgery

LASIK is the abbreviation for “Laser Assisted In Situ Keratomileusis,” which basically means using a special laser to remove and reshape cornea tissue. LASIK is designed to treat refractive errors and improve vision. The procedure includes surgically removing the flap covering of the cornea by a skilled eye surgeon. Then, using the LASIK surgical technique, the cornea is reshaped to the specific pattern designed for the individual patient.

The technique was first introduced in Greece, around 1991. Since then, the procedure has been adopted worldwide. There are also some LASIK variation methods today. Originally designed for near sightedness, the procedure is now being studied by the FDA for farsightedness. The chief advantages of LASIK surgery is the visual restoration to 20/20 vision and the quick recovery time. Based upon the eye surgeon’s recommendations, some patients choose the traditional laser treatment (PRK), although now LASIK appears to be the preferred technique.

In any laser surgery, the outcome may be irreversible, and that is the principal risk. Sometimes the result may be under corrected or over corrected. This may result in the continued use of glasses or contacts for optimal vision. Also, sometimes after surgery, the procedure may regress and not be permanent. Dry eye and visual aberrations may occur. These risk are, however, uncommon and the reason why a physician or eye surgeon should be consulted. As in all types of surgeries and health care in general, sometimes things go wrong, which could result in a total loss of vision. This is a risk in any type of surgical eye procedure.

For these reasons, the decision for laser surgery should be examined carefully, and the benefits weighed against the risks. Sometimes traditional methods, such as optical glasses or contacts, make the better choice.