Sunday, May 26, 2013

Is LASIK Eye Surgery Safe?: Understanding the Possible Risks

Back in the day, the only solution for people who were nearsighted, farsighted, or astigmatic was to get fitted for glasses or contact lenses. Due to medical advances, however, people can now undergo LASIK surgery to improve their eyesight. LASIK, which stands for laser in-situ keratomileusis, is a surgical procedure that involves reshaping the cornea so the light traveling through is more focused onto the retina.

Much like all surgical procedures, LASIK surgery does entail a couple of risks. Some patients reportedly develop dry eye syndrome or the inability to produce tears to keep the eyes moist, which can be rather uncomfortable. For those who are not ideal candidates for LASIK, the results might not be as good. Patients with severe refractive errors, for instance, might still need to wear glasses.


To qualify for LASIK, you must be at least 18 years old, be free of any eye disease, and have been wearing prescription contacts or glasses for at least two years. Women who are pregnant or are nursing, as well as anyone with significant vision changes within a single year, are not good candidates for the procedure. Despite the possible risks, the US Food and Drug Administration (FDA) states that most patients are happy with the results of LASIK surgery.

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