LASIK Side Effects and Warnings

Possible Complications

LASIK eye surgery has a relatively low complication rate, but they can occur. Possible complications include, but are not limited to:

• Under- or over-correction of the cornea shape
• Infection
• Scarring
• Fuzzy or blurry vision
• Poor night vision
• Seeing halos or sunbursts around light/glare
• Long-term dryness, scratchiness, or pain in eyes
• Correction may not last
• Permanent decrease or loss of vision that cannot be corrected with glasses or contact lenses
• Need for additional laser or surgery

Some factors that may increase the risk of complications include:

• Pre-existing eye disease (such as glaucoma ) or abnormalities in the shape of the cornea (such as keratoconus)
• Persistent eye infections (such as blepharitis )
• Dry eyes
• Thin cornea
• Large pupil size
• Autoimmune disease, immunodeficiency, and other conditions, or use of medicines that alter wound healing
• Diabetes
• Any other form of fluctuating vision

Call Your Doctor

After arriving home, contact your doctor if any of the following occurs:

• Redness, swelling, increasing pain, bleeding, or discharge from the eye
• Signs of infection, including fever and chills
• Vision worsens
• Any other problems or concerns

In case of an emergency, CALL 911.