What are some of the risks of LASIK eye surgery?”
Irregular astigmatism can result from a less than smooth corneal surface. Irregular astigmatism also can occur from laser correction that is not centered properly on the eye. Resulting symptoms may include double vision (diplopia) or “ghost images.” In these cases, the eye may need re-treatment or an enhancement. Diffuse Lamellar Keratitis (DLK), also nicknamed “Sands of the Sahara,” is inflammation under the LASIK flap that may have several causes. Some inflammation of the cornea after LASIK surgery is normal. But if it is uncontrolled, as in DLK, it can interfere with healing and cause vision loss. If DLK occurs, it usually responds to therapies such as antibiotics and topical steroids. The flap also might need to be lifted and rinsed for removal of inflammatory cells and to prevent tissue damage. Keratectasia or keratoconus is bulging of the eye’s surface that can result from a flap that is cut too deeply, when too much tissue is removed from the cornea during LASIK or when the corn
Millions of Americans have undergone laser eye surgery to correct bad vision, and along with the procedure’s popularity something else is coming into focus: its hazards. Advertising stresses the surgery’s safety, and most procedures are successful. Tiger Woods, who relies on keen eyesight as the world’s best golfer, pitches it as a quick and painless way to restore sharp vision. Even the U.S. Air Force, long skeptical of the surgery, changed its policy last May to let people who had LASIK apply for pilot training. But every year thousands of Americans who undergo LASIK are left with chronic pain, dryness of the eyes, distorted night vision and even blindness, according to Food and Drug Administration statistics. LASIK — which stands for laser-assisted in situ keratomileusis — uses lasers to cut and reshape the cornea. It can improve eyesight without complications, but equipment flaws, a surgeon’s error or a failure to screen out patients whose eyes are ill-suited for the treatment can
