What risks are associated with a laser eye surgery?
June 23, 2023 | 25,00 EUR | answered by Tobias Helbig
Dear Sir or Madam,
My name is Ella Weiß and I am currently considering whether to opt for a laser eye surgery. I have been wearing glasses and contact lenses for many years and would like to permanently improve my vision. However, I have concerns as I have often heard about the potential risks of such an operation.
My vision impairment mainly affects my nearsightedness, which causes problems for me in everyday life. I am employed and spend a lot of time on the computer, which strains my eyes even more. Therefore, I would like to find a solution that allows me to see better without glasses or contact lenses.
I am worried that complications may occur during the operation and that my vision may not be improved, but worsened. The possible side effects after the operation also concern me. Therefore, it is important for me to learn more about the risks of a laser eye surgery in order to make an informed decision.
What are the risks associated with a laser eye surgery and how likely are they to occur? Are there any possible complications that I should be particularly aware of? What are the alternatives to laser eye surgery and what are their advantages and disadvantages?
Thank you in advance for your response and support in my decision-making process.
Sincerely,
Ella Weiß
Dear Mrs. Weiß,
Thank you for your inquiry regarding a laser eye surgery. My name is Tobias Helbig and I am an ophthalmologist with many years of experience in the field of ophthalmology.
It is understandable that you have concerns regarding possible risks of a laser eye surgery, especially when it comes to your vision. During such a surgery, the cornea and the refractive power of the eye are usually altered to correct vision problems. The most common risks of a laser eye surgery include dry eyes, sensitivity to glare, increased light sensitivity, and halos (rings of light around light sources). These symptoms may occur in the first few weeks after the surgery, but usually subside within a few weeks or months. The likelihood of these risks occurring is less than 5%.
However, there are also rare but more serious complications that can occur during a laser eye surgery, such as infections, worsening of vision, uneven results, corneal scarring, or inadequate correction of vision problems. The likelihood of these complications is very low, less than 1%. It is important to emphasize that a laser eye surgery is generally safe and effective when performed by an experienced and qualified ophthalmologist.
If you are still unsure or have concerns about a laser eye surgery, there are alternative treatment options that can be considered. These include the implantation of intraocular lenses or orthokeratological treatment. However, each of these alternatives has its own pros and cons and should be thoroughly discussed with your ophthalmologist.
It is important that you consult a specialist for a detailed consultation before undergoing a laser eye surgery and address all your questions and concerns. Your ophthalmologist will conduct a thorough preoperative examination to determine if you are a suitable candidate for the surgery and explain all the risks and possible complications to you.
I hope that I have been able to assist you with this information and I am happy to answer any further questions you may have. I wish you all the best with your decision-making process and hope that you will soon find a solution that improves your vision.
Best regards,
Tobias Helbig
