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Laser Vision Correction Risks

At Eye Doctors of Washington, all of our laser eye surgeons are specialty-trained and highly experienced with our vision correction and cataract surgery procedures. We also use only the most state-of-the-art, FDA-approved laser technology with the goal of providing our patients with the safest, most effective procedure possible. However, as with any type of surgery, there are risks involved. No matter how rare certain complications may occur, and no matter how slight the degree of risk, all patients should have a thorough understanding of the possibilities before they elect to undergo any type of laser vision correction procedure, including LASIK, PRK, or LenSx Femtosecond Laser Cataract Surgery.

The following information will provide you with some details on the risks and potential complications involved with some of our laser refractive surgery and laser cataract surgery treatments. Our doctors will make every effort to minimize these risks and provide you with a smooth procedure and effective results. We will also thoroughly discuss these risks and the potential for complications with you before you decide to have the surgery, and answer all of your questions.

Please contact Eye Doctors of Washington for more information, or to schedule an appointment here at our practice.

LASIK and PRK Vision Correction Risks and Information
Although rare, some potential complications and risks associated with LASIK and PRK vision correction include:

  • Possible loss of certain lines of vision after surgery that does not improve with corrective eyewear or additional surgical treatment
  • Over- or under-correction of vision
  • Severe dry-eye syndrome
  • Improved vision results may reduce with age
  • Patients who have large refractive errors may not experience the same degree of improvement when compared with patients with smaller refractive errors
  • Device malfunction during surgery
  • Infection or inflammation, which can ultimately lead to temporary or even permanent vision loss
  • There is no guarantee of perfect vision
  • Patients who are around the age of 45 may still need to wear reading glasses, even if they have LASIK to improve distance vision
  • Insurance does not typically cover laser vision correction surgery
  • Additional surgery may be necessary to achieve the most optimal results

Laser Cataract Surgery Risks
One of the chief benefits of the LenSx Femtosecond Laser Cataract Surgery procedure is that it has been shown to reduce many of the risks involved with other forms of cataract surgery. However, there is still a risk of complications during and after this procedure, and although complications are rare, patients should be aware of them before deciding to have laser cataract surgery. These include:

  • Infection
  • Increased pressure to the eye during the procedure
  • Damage and/or tearing of the eye’s surface

Our doctors will go over all risks and potential complications from laser cataract surgery and address any concerns you may have. Please contact us today for more information.