eyeThe success rate for Lasik surgery is 95%. This may be a little off-putting, but analyzing that result further may be more reassuring. First of all the ‘unsuccessful’ 5% of Lasik patients may be dissatisfied with the result as they still need to wear glasses for close work - the most common problem. Patients are warned that this may be a possibility, but their eyesight is still considerably improved and they no longer need to wear corrective eye glasses or contact lenses for most of the day.

Other complications arise by the surgery being performed on a candidate who is not suitable for the procedure. Choosing an experienced eye surgeon with a good reputation is essential. Candidates should be honest on all the following points to ensure that the surgery is successful. They should be at least 18 years of age, with vision which has been stable for at least a year. They should not have suffered an eye infection or injury in the preceding year. There should be no history of herpes in the eye as this surgery may cause the infection to recur. Candidates should not be pregnant or nursing when being assessed for surgery. Those suffering with dry eye syndrome are also not good candidates for Lasik surgery, as dry eyes are often a short-term complication for most people after surgery. Finally the ophthalmologist should not perform the surgery on people whose eyes dilate more than normal in the dark.

Further complications may be suffered after surgery if antibiotics and eyedrops are not used as prescribed for the weeks and months following the surgery. Protective darkened eye glasses should be worn during the day for a week after surgery. Goggles should be worn at night until the surgery has healed. Rubbing the eyes can cause serious problems whilst the corneal flap is still loose.

Risks are reduced considerably if the surgery is performed by an experienced ophthalmologist. His initial assessment is imperative to the success of the surgery. Equal responsible is put on the Lasik surgery procedure. The most recent and up-to-date advances in Lasik technology can enormously improve the quality, safety and results of the patient’s sight. Choosing the right specialist plays a very important part in predicting a successful outcome.

Most complications such as night-time glare, infection, flap wrinkles, raised corneal tissue and regrowth of the epithelial tissue can all be resolved or may sort themselves out over time.

The general majority of Lasik patients are happy with their Lasik surgery. Some people experience minor short-term problems but it is very rare for a patient to have a serious complication resulting in sight that is worse than before the procedure.