Hindsight may be clear, but not everyone has perfect vision. For those with visual impairments, LASIK—short for "laser in situ keratomileusis"—is a popular surgical option. The American Refractive Surgery Council reports that over 20 million LASIK procedures have been conducted in the U.S., boasting a patient satisfaction rate exceeding 96%. However, some patients have voiced concerns about side effects online, leading to troubling narratives. While many achieve their desired vision post-surgery, others experience persistent issues such as dry eyes and chronic pain. Searching "LASIK" on platforms like TikTok reveals a mix of positive and negative experiences. So, is LASIK the answer to blurry vision, or do the risks overshadow its benefits? Here’s what experts have to say.
**What is LASIK?**
LASIK is designed to decrease reliance on glasses or contact lenses by enhancing how light rays focus on the retina, as stated by the FDA. Dr. Yusra Siddiqui explains that it involves creating a microscopic flap in the cornea and reshaping it to correct nearsightedness, farsightedness, and astigmatism. The procedure typically lasts around 30 minutes, during which a flap is cut in the cornea, exposing the stroma for laser reshaping before repositioning the flap.
**Is LASIK Safe?**
Data indicates that LASIK is generally safe, with a low complication rate and high long-term satisfaction. Approved by the FDA in 1998, millions have undergone the procedure since then. A long-term study published in December 2020 highlighted its safety compared to photorefractive keratectomy (PRK). Dr. Diane Hilal-Campo emphasizes that as long as candidates are properly selected and operated on by skilled ophthalmologists, LASIK is safe for most individuals over 18 with healthy eyes. However, certain medical conditions may disqualify candidates.
**LASIK Side Effects and Risks**
Most LASIK side effects are temporary, including dry eyes, light sensitivity, and glare. The National Library of Medicine lists potential risks such as:
- Dry eyes
- Glares or halos
- Corneal infection
- Corneal scarring
- Light sensitivity
- Night driving difficulties
- Vision changes
Research indicates that nearly all patients will experience some dry eye symptoms post-surgery, particularly those with pre-existing dry eye conditions. While most side effects improve over time, complications can include over- or under-correction of vision and rare instances of chronic pain or other severe outcomes.
**Recovery Time After LASIK**
Recovery from LASIK is typically swift. Patients may experience blurry vision on the day of surgery but should notice improvements within a couple of days. It’s advisable to take a few days off work for recovery. Patients will wear protective goggles post-surgery and may feel some discomfort as healing progresses.
**Alternatives to LASIK**
The simplest alternative to LASIK is continuing with glasses or contact lenses. Other options include PRK and Implantable Collamer Lens (ICL) surgery, which may be better suited for specific patients based on their eye health and lifestyle.
**Post-Surgery Care**
Patients should report any side effects to their surgeon following LASIK. While many side effects are temporary, treatments like artificial tears can alleviate persistent dry eye symptoms.
**Who Should Avoid LASIK?**
Not everyone is a suitable candidate for LASIK; approximately 20% of patients may be ineligible. According to the FDA, factors that may disqualify candidates include pregnancy, certain medications, pre-existing health conditions, and age under 18.
In conclusion, while LASIK offers significant benefits for many individuals seeking clearer vision without corrective lenses, potential candidates should thoroughly discuss their options with an experienced ophthalmologist to assess suitability and understand all associated risks.