The entire tea here at Peña Eye Institute is proud to offer patients in the McAllen area state-of-the-art custom LASIK surgery to improve vision. This advanced technology has a number of advantages when compared to the LASIK of the past, but it's important to us that we provide prospective LASIK patients with all the information they need, meaning the good and the bad.
Even though LASIK has a number of benefits when it comes to enhancing patient vision and patient wellness, it's very important to us that patients learn about the serious side effects and potential complications of any surgery that they will undergo. This provides realistic expectations about the procedure and allows patients to make the most empowered choices possible when it comes to their wellness.
Risk of Infection After Surgery
Any kind of surgery entails a certain amount of risk with regard to infection. This is why detailed post-op instruction are provided with regard to activities to avoid. LASIK goggles are helpful with the prevention of infection and other serious issues since they protect the eye from particulate matter and accidental contact.
Overcorrection or Undercorrection
One potential complication that may occur involves improper correction of the corneal contour. This can lead to the patient's vision being not quite right. Sometimes a secondary LASIK procedure can correct the problem, though other times a patient may need corrective lenses. Thankfully this particular problem is rare.
Flap Complications
During LASIK, a flap is created on the topmost layer of the cornea, which is known as the epithelium. It is through this flap that the laser reshapes the cornea. The flap is very delicate after surgery, and a number of different complications can lead to folds, in-growth, and other issues with healing. Patients avoid flap complications by not scratching or rubbing their eyes during healing.
Chronic or Persistent Dry Eye
Dry eye is a common side effect of LASIK surgery simply given the nature of the procedure. This is why patients are instructed to carry liquid tears with them at all times should a dry eye attack occur. Some patients will experience chronic and persistent dry eye for years after LASIK, though the risk of this is generally low.
How Patients Can Reduce Risk of Complications
The best way for patients to avoid major risks and complications after LASIK is to follow all of their pre-op and post-op instructions to the letter. This puts the patient's body in the best possible condition to heal and to avoid complications. Patients should attend all follow-up visits to the practice and keep in touch with their LASIK surgeon during the healing process in order for any problems or potential issues to be properly addressed.
How Our Team Reduces the Risk of Complications
The biggest way that we avoid complications for our patients is using the latest techniques and technology available. By remaining as state-of-the-art as we can, we can use technology to benefit each patient who is treated. This reduces risk of infection and flap complications and also means a better healing process and better overall vision results than were achieved in the past.
Schedule a Consultation with Dr. Raul Peña
For more information about LASIK surgery and how it can benefit you and enhance your vision, be sure to contact our eye care and laser vision correction center today. At Peña Eye Institute, we will be more than happy to provide you with all of the answers that you need to have great vision and excellent eye health.
