The Risks of Lasik

Lasik is a procedure carried out on healthy eyes to reduce the dependence upon glasses or contact lenses, unlike most other operations which are performed on damaged or diseased eyes.

It is a surgical procedure, and therefore not entirely risk free. It is a relatively new procedure and the long-term effects are becoming apparent.

However, the incidence of complications is low, somewhere in the region of 1%. The evidence currently available suggests that the treatment is permanent and safe. We will not recommend Lasik if your eye is not suitable for this procedure.

Here at Drayton house Clinic risks and complications are discussed with you on an individual basis taking into consideration your occupation, lifestyle and expectations.

Possible Complications

• The flap of cornea may become dislodged.
• Incomplete or irregular flap - may occur.
• Creating a cap rather than a flap of corneal tissue.
• The flap can develop a "button-hole" when being cut.
• Infection can occur as the eye is exposed.
• Very rarely the surface cells can grow under the flap.
• Debris may become trapped under the flap.
• Some patients may develop dry eyes.
• Full visual stabilisation may take several weeks.
• The tissue response to the laser treatment may be excessive or not enough.
• The laser achieved correction may regress over time

Additional Information

• Lasik Treatment
• Prelex Treatment