Before undergoing LASIK laser eye surgery, it is important for patients to research success rates and potential complications thoroughly. The best way to do this is to consult with a trusted ophthalmologist, but these statistics related to LASIK effectiveness are a good way to get started.
LASIK Success Rates
In recent studies, the American Association of Professional Eyecare Specialists found that more than half of
LASIK patients (55.3 percent) have achieved vision of 20/20 or better, and a staggering 92.6 percent of LASIK enjoy vision of 20/40 or better. The FDA measures LASIK success by the number of patients who achieve 20/40 vision or better, as this is the minimum visual acuity required for drivers in most states.
National figures regarding LASIK success rates are helpful, but the best way to determine the success you may enjoy after LASIK surgery is to talk with your ophthalmologist. Ask how many LASIK procedures he or she has performed, and what kind of results are normally achieved by his or her patients. It is also a good idea to talk with people who have undergone LASIK laser eye surgery with local ophthalmologists to learn about the LASIK experience. Ask LASIK patients about the procedure and the results and/or side effects they experienced after LASIK to get an idea of what you can expect.
LASIK Side Effects and Complications
While there is a risk of complications with every surgical procedure, very few patients experience negative side effects. In fact, the FDA has reported that only 1 to 5 percent of LASIK patients encounter complications after laser eye surgery. Most LASIK side effects experienced by patients are mild, and may include light sensitivity and the appearance of halos around light sources. Only 3 percent of LASIK patients report decreased visual clarity after surgery, and the vast majority of patients enjoy clearer vision and a reduced dependency on glasses and contacts.
To learn more about LASIK as well as
cataracts and other eye care issues, we encourage you to visit our
laser eye surgery office on Long Island.