LASIK Disadvantages

Today, LASIK (Laser Assisted In Situ Keratomileusis) is a widely performed eye surgery option for vision corrections. Over the years, this distinctive surgical procedure has developed and improved in many ways, claiming reasonably predictable outcomes for better vision when compared to its predecessor - the PRK treatment. Whether it is myopia, hyperopia or astigmatism, LASIK is believed to be a well-accepted solution to get rid of glasses and contact lens. Clinical statistics show that approximately 835,000 patients undergo LASIK per annum in the US alone! Nevertheless, this corneal Laser treatment is not free from potential risks and complications. In most cases, it is observed that LASIK is preferred to other Excimer Laser surgical procedures because of its precise and faster surgical processes, postoperative efficacy and faster recovery. Does LASIK really provide problem-free, stable vision to the patients? Is the procedure sufficient enough in achieving optimal functional vision? Well, these issues are debatable and need further clinical interventions and patient-data evaluation to affirm LASIK's long term health benefits for individuals.

Medical journals and various reports reveal that LASIK patients are prone to develop several post-surgical complications that deteriorate eye (corneal) health and visual performance and may cause loss of vision. Complications associated with LASIK may develop due to wrong treatments, surgical errors and incorrect post-operative cares. The FDA has also observed that due to the dearth of robust clinical data on LASIK followed by lenient rules and regulations as well as insufficient reporting mechanisms, it is almost impossible to evaluate the efficacy, accuracy and the true benefits of LASIK. Common complications associated with LASIK may range from corneal swelling, scarring, pain and temporary discomfort to loss of visual sharpness and partial blindness. Sometimes, patients may suffer from other serious ailments like dry eyes, distorted night vision, halos and glare, blurred vision, etc. These types of potential risks are sight-threatening and often need further clinical interventions or "touch up" additional surgeries to obtain a permanent remedy if any.

There are some more Disadvantages of LASIK surgical procedure:

• The chance of achieving 20/20 vision is only 50 percent in normal circumstances. You may have to wear glasses or contact lens even after the surgery or go for another Laser surgery to get the "better" vision
• Patients with dry eyes, thin or flat corneas are not suitable for traditional LASIK
• Greater chance of under correction or over correction
• You may experience diminishing vision with age
• Greater risk of retinal hemorrhage and retinal detachment in myopic patients
• No predictable result is obtained in cases of monovision and presbyopia
• Reduction in best corrected visual acuity(BCVA) and visual quality may occur.

Though LASIK is gaining immense popularity in the refractive surgery market in recent times, it is crucial for prospective patients to consult ophthalmologists in order to know whether he or she is suitable for undergoing LASIK. In all circumstances, individuals are free to take decisions on the types of Laser surgical procedures needed or suitable for them after an initial consultation with ophthalmologists and consequent optical check ups. Remember, LASIK is not the only option for vision correction.