Can you go blind from LASIK Eye Surgery?

Most, if not all, optical professionals believe that LASIK eye surgery is one of the true breakthroughs in treating a variety of vision problems. LASIK has the ability to correct nearsightedness, farsightedness, and has also proven to cure astigmatism. We at SightMD have received questions from concerned patients who wonder if LASIK can have the opposite effect and cause blindness.

What are the chances of going blind from LASIK eye surgery?

While this may seem like a surprising question to some, worries about possible blindness following a LASIK procedure are among many myths connected with this eye surgery. There is greater possibility of going blind due to complications from a contact lenses-related infection than a LASIK procedure.

How can I reduce risks of LASIK?

At times, there are risks that accompany LASIK eye surgery, which a candidate for the procedure should discuss with his or her eye care professional. Although popular and widely chosen by patients, LASIK is a complex operation and should be performed by an eye surgeon who has extensive experience with this procedure. When the correct aftercare protocol is not observed, the resulting complications (especially infections) can cause blindness. This is extremely rare but has happened. LASIK surgery itself does not cause blindness, and most cases of LASIK complications are avoidable by following aftercare procedures set forth by your surgeon. If you notice anything out of the ordinary or anything alarming after your LASIK surgery, contact an ophthalmologist immediately.

Are you ready to take the next step in your vision journey?

We hope we have put any fears about blindness from LASIK eye surgery to rest. If you have been considering this procedure, get in touch with the SightMD office nearest you. A member of our staff will schedule an appointment for a consultation with an eye care surgeon, where you will discuss whether or not you might be a candidate for LASIK eye surgery.