Can you go blind from LASIK?

One of the most common questions we get from our patients is, “can you go blind from laser eye surgery?” For good reason – our eyes and vision are so precious; we don’t want to put ourselves at any risk of losing this extraordinary sense.

Fortunately, the answer is no. You cannot go blind from LASIK surgery. There have been no reported incidences of anyone going blind from laser eye surgery. LASIK surgery is one of the safest elective procedures and the success rate is extremely high. In fact, a recent study has shown that laser eye surgery actually has a lower risk of infection than for contact lens wear!^[1]

What happens if I move my eye during LASIK?

Another common question patients ask us is, “what happens if I move my eye during laser surgery?” A genuine concern, however, not to worry! The technology used for laser eye surgery in today’s age is so advanced meaning that any eye movement is automatically tracked for the laser to adjust. Any sudden eye movements will also cause the laser to automatically stop.

George St Eye Centre is also proud to house the most advanced laser in the Southern hemisphere – the Schwind Amaris. This laser machine compensates for eye movements in all 7 dimensions – X, Y, Z axis, horizontal, vertical movements and cyclotorsion. This ensures tracking to the utmost precision ensuring ultimate safety and precision for crystal clear vision!

What are the risks?

We now know that laser eye surgery is extremely safe. But that’s not to say that complications won’t occur, albeit extremely rare and temporary in its effect. These complications usually come from improper aftercare following the procedure, rather than from the procedure itself. This includes symptoms such as dry eyes, glare and halos from bright lights and infection.

The best way to maximise recovery and prevent any complications is to follow the appropriate aftercare procedures given by your doctor. This involves making sure to use the postoperative eye drops as prescribed, refraining from rubbing your eyes and avoiding aggressive contact sports for several weeks, amongst other considerations.

We’re here to guide you through any queries or concerns you may have. Please do not hesitate to contact us to book a free laser eye assessment and get all your LASIK questions answered.

^[1] Masters J, Kocak M & Waite A. Risk for microbial keratitis: Comparative metaanalysis of contact lens wearers and post-laser in situ keratomileusis patients. J Cataract Refract Surg 2017; 43: 67–73.