Laser eye correction is often advertised as a solution for vision problems that is permanent and pain-free, with minimal healing time. While laser eye surgery could be a suitable option for some, there are risks associated with the procedure that are often overlooked.
How Does Laser Eye Correction Work?
Laser eye correction is a surgical procedure that reshapes a person’s cornea to improve vision. First, a laser is used to create a corneal flap to access the underlying corneal tissue. Then, a laser is used to remove tissue, which reshapes the cornea so it can more accurately focus light on the retina. Finally, the flap is repositioned and left to heal.
Risks Associated with Laser Eye Correction
As is the case with all surgical procedures, laser eye surgery carries risks:
Over-Correction/Under-Correction: Sometimes, vision isn’t improved because the surgeon removed too much corneal tissue (over-correction) or not enough tissue (under-correction). After a few months of healing, you may be eligible for a follow-up enhancement surgery to try to correct the vision again.
Deteriorating Vision: Over time, vision may return to pre-surgery levels. Many laser eye correction advertisements make the false claim that patients who undergo the surgery will never need glasses again. Even if the procedure is performed successfully, natural aging will deteriorate vision — requiring eyeglasses to see clearly.
Halos/Double Vision: After the procedure, many patients report having trouble seeing in dim lighting due to contrast sensitivity loss. There have also been reports of seeing halos, starbursts, glares and experiencing double-vision that require a person to wear prescription eyewear to correct the vision to perform regular activities, like driving safely at night.
Dry Eyes: The most common complication of laser eye correction is dry eyes. Nerves responsible for tear production could be severed during the procedure. In some instances, the symptoms of pain, burning and foreign body sensation are permanent.
Laser eye correction is an elective surgery that holds no medical reason to risk serious complications when glasses and contact lenses provide a safe alternative.
Hakim Optical began 50 years ago when Sir Hakimi was grinding lenses for the Canadian wholesale market. Today Hakim Optical serves our customers with 161 outlets (including 140 one-hour factory outlets) across Canada.
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