The purpose of this information
is not to terrorize patients by suggesting grotesque consequences.
We would like to emphasize the rarity of the complications mentioned
below. However, it is good for the patient to be sensitized to the
fact that complications can occur, and that in fact, most complications
have easy solutions.
The first possible complication
is an eye(s) infection immediately following the procedure. We take
due care to ensure that infections don't get introduced into the
eye as a result of the procedure itself. It is important that patients
also follow instructions from the center's staff and doctors carefully.
Infections can be controlled by instilling antibiotic eye drops
and other medicines. However, in extremely rare cases, severe loss
of vision is possible.
The second possible complication
of LASIK is the rare occurrence in which there are problems in fashioning
the flap. This may include an incomplete flap, or a free cap or
an irregular flap. Generally, the solution of these complications
is to postpone the surgery and repeat it after 3 months, with little
or no adverse consequences.
The third complication is
in the flap-bed interface following LASIK. Sometimes, there can
be inflammation in the interface, leading to a drop in vision. Sometimes,
cells from the top surface of the flap (epithelium) migrate to the
interface and grow there. Most times, lifting the flap and washing,
can solve these problems. In rare cases, the flap may need to be
cut away (in which case, it becomes a PRK like procedure). In extremely
rare cases, a corneal transplant may become necessary.
Another complication of LASIK is kerastecsia, or a bulging forward
of the cornea due to excessive thinning. While we take care not
to excessively thin the cornea, in rare cases, it can be spontaneous.
This condition may lead to a severe drop in vision, and may be helped
by wearing hard contact lenses or a corneal transplant.
Another complications of LASIK include undercorrection or overcorrection
(which may require an enhancement procedure), glare or haloes around
lights, especially at night, dry eyes, and an increased sensitivity
to pain.
In rare cases, the flap may shear off due to trauma suffered even
several years after the procedure.
All this information is available
in our informed consent form, which you will be required to sign
before you undergo the procedure. |
