LASIK Risks & Concerns
Continue to Diminish
Prior to your LASIK surgery, Dr. Whitsett will personally review the risks associated with the procedure and answer your questions and concerns. However, LASIK is a relatively risk-free surgery since it only alters the shape of the cornea.
Many publicized reports of LASIK complications relate to surgery being performed on marginal candidates. Dr. Whitsett is very careful in his patient selection, and will inform a candidate in advance whether and to what degree LASIK will benefit him or her.
Additionally, advancements such as Intralase and expanded treatment zones for the VISX Star S4 laser have diminished previous problems with making the flap and glares/halos from oversized pupils, respectively.
One of the most common after effects of LASIK is under correction which often times occurs in patients with large refractive errors. The conservative surgeon may purposely leave additional corneal tissue so as not to overcorrect. If under correction occurs, a second procedure similar to your surgery called an enhancement will be scheduled. The cost of an enhancement is included in your original LASIK fee with Dr. Whitsett (as long as your enhancement occurs within two years of your original procedure).
The flap heals naturally after LASIK surgery. It is important to follow doctor instructions and avoid displacing the flap immediately after surgery.