The most common complication after a Lasik operation manifests itself in the form of dry eyes. This disorder appears as a deterioration in vision, whereas a feeling of dryness takes a back seat. It is based on the destruction of the nerve fibers supplying the cornea (Denervation) as part of the Lasik. Most of the time, however, this recovers within a period of up to six months after the operation. Up to this point in time, artificial tear substitutes should be used to moisten the eyes. In addition, it makes sense to use gels or ointments to moisten the eyes at night.
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Furthermore, contrast vision can be impaired as a result of a Lasik. This manifests itself as deterioration in vision at dusk or at night. Another risk one Lasik are Cutting errors.
The corneal piece (Flap) can be cut too small, too thin or even completely separated with the microkeratome. However, the rate for this complication is now only 0.5%
In addition, a so-called epithelial defect can occur in the course of a Lasik. This means a defect in the top layer of the cornea (epithelium). The risk of this complication of Lasik is increased by too early or too much use of anesthetics (anesthetic) during the operation or due to insufficient moisture in the eye during the procedure.
Even patients with very dry eyes or changes in the corneal tissue (Corneal dystrophy) suffer from an increased risk of epithelial defects after a Lasik. If such a defect is present, this is treated with the help of a bandage lens, which is placed over the eye, and with an increased dose of steroid eye drops after the Lasik.
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Read more on the topic: Corneal dystrophy
As a further complication, wrinkles can form in the flap after performing a Lasik. Small wrinkles (Microfolds) occur mainly in patients who have severe myopia (Myopia) be treated. As a rule, however, these small wrinkles present themselves without symptoms. In contrast, large wrinkles (Macro wrinkles) in the flap can be surgically removed immediately after a Lasik. For this purpose, the flap is separated again, stretched so that the folds disappear and then reattached. In severe cases, however, removal of the wrinkles or temporary suturing for a few weeks may be necessary.
In up to two percent of cases, an inflammatory change in the cornea, a diffuse lamellar keratitis, can occur after a Lasik. "Keratitis" describes the inflammation of the cornea and "diffuse" a random, extensive distribution of this inflammation.
This is often due to a defect in the corneal epithelium, bacteria or residues in the room (interface) between the flap and corneal tissue. This complication of Lasik is treated with steroid drops, steroid tablets or rinsing.
A pathogen-related inflammation - microbial keratitis - is also to be mentioned as a risk of a Lasik operation. The measures to be taken are antibiotic therapy in connection with thorough rinsing below the raised flap. The flap may even have to be removed completely.
$config[ads_text3] not foundSeldom can a glaucoma (glaucoma) after a Lasik, which is an increase in intraocular pressure. This occurs as a result of Lasik steroid therapy.
Furthermore, the superficial corneal epithelium can grow in in the area of the corneal incision. This complication of Lasik develops in about one percent of treated cases. As long as it does not worsen (progression), this complication does not have to be treated due to the lack of symptoms.
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If a corneal residue that is too thin remains after the corneal ablation as part of the Lasik, corneal ectasia can occur, which is understood to be a protrusion of this residue. If such a case occurs, lenses must be adapted for stabilization, so-called Ferrara rings must be inserted into the corneal tissue or a keratoplasty (corneal transplant) performed.
