LASIK (Laser-Assisted In Situ Keratomileusis) is a widely performed surgical procedure designed to correct common vision problems like nearsightedness, farsightedness, and astigmatism. It reshapes the cornea, the clear front part of the eye, to improve how light focuses on the retina. While all surgical procedures carry some degree of risk, the prospect of true blindness resulting from LASIK surgery is exceedingly rare. This procedure is considered one of the safest elective surgeries available, with millions performed globally.
The Risk of Blindness from LASIK
Permanent blindness from LASIK is extraordinarily uncommon, with no documented cases where it was the sole cause. The procedure reshapes the cornea, the outermost layer, and does not directly affect the retina or optic nerve, which are deeper vision-processing structures. The statistical chance of going blind from modern laser eye surgery is approximately one in five million.
Severe vision loss, though still very rare, is typically linked to a series of complications occurring in succession that remain undiagnosed or ignored. These might include intractable infections, severe flap complications, or uncontrolled inflammation within the eye. Even in such rare instances, total blindness is not typical; rather, it involves a loss of best-corrected vision (vision achievable with glasses or contacts). The overall serious complication rate for LASIK, including those leading to significant vision loss, is less than 1 percent.
Other Potential Complications
While total blindness is an extremely remote possibility, other, generally less severe complications can occur following LASIK surgery.
Dry eyes are the most common side effect, affecting up to 30 percent of patients in the first three months. This temporary decrease in tear production typically resolves within weeks to months as the eyes heal.
Visual disturbances like glare, halos, starbursts, or double vision are also reported. These symptoms are often more noticeable in low-light conditions, particularly at night, and usually diminish within days to weeks, though they can persist longer in some cases.
Less frequently, patients may experience undercorrection or overcorrection, where the laser removes too little or too much corneal tissue, leading to blurry vision. These issues can often be corrected with a secondary “enhancement” procedure. Flap complications, such as displacement, wrinkling, or epithelial ingrowth (where surface cells grow under the flap), are rare but can affect vision quality and may require intervention.
Factors Influencing LASIK Safety
The overall safety and success of LASIK are significantly influenced by several contributing factors.
Proper patient selection is paramount, involving thorough pre-operative screening to identify suitable candidates. This assessment evaluates eye health, corneal thickness, pupil size, and prescription stability. Individuals with thin corneas, severe dry eye syndrome, certain corneal diseases, or uncontrolled systemic diseases like diabetes or autoimmune disorders may not be suitable candidates.
The surgeon’s experience and reputation also play a significant role in minimizing risks. Advanced technology, such as femtosecond lasers for creating the corneal flap and wavefront-guided treatments for precise tissue reshaping, has enhanced accuracy and safety.
Adhering to post-operative care, including using prescribed eye drops and attending follow-up appointments, is important for optimal healing and achieving the desired visual outcome.