Can anything go wrong with laser eye surgery?

// Augenlaserzentrum Franken

The advantages of laser eye correction

Laser eye treatment can be an effective method to correct short-sightedness, for example, and thus significantly improve vision. By using modern technologies such as LASIK or Femto-LASIK, it is possible to treat the visual impairment precisely and reduce or eliminate the dependence on glasses or contact lenses. During laser correction, the cornea of the eye is modelled in order to optimise the refraction of light and thus clear view in the distance (in the case of short-sightedness). Compared to conventional glasses or contact lenses, this method offers long-term benefits, as it is a permanent solution to the problem of myopia. Another advantage of Femto-LASIK treatment is the relatively short recovery time after the procedure. Unlike other surgical procedures, correction using laser technology does not require a lengthy healing process. Most patients can return to their normal daily activities just a few days after the procedure. This not only means a quicker return to work or school, but also a quicker adjustment to life without glasses or contact lenses. Thanks to the high degree of precision and advanced technology Laser correction minimizes the risk of side effects such as infections or corneal injuries during the procedure.

In summary, laser eye correction offers many advantages. It provides a permanent solution to the problem of nearsightedness or farsightedness and reduces dependence on glasses or contact lenses. In addition, the recovery time after the procedure is comparatively short.

If you would like to correct your eyes, seek advice from the eye laser center PD Dr. med. Andreas Frings and team to make the right decision for your eyes.

Dry eyes after treatment

After laser eye surgery, there is a risk of developing dry eyes. This is a common problem after the procedure and can be temporary or permanent. Dry eyes occur when tear production is insufficient or the quality of the tear fluid is impaired. Symptoms can include a burning or scratching sensation, redness and increased blinking. The cause of dry eyes after laser eye surgery is often temporary damage to the nerve fibers in the cornea. This nerve damage can lead to disruption of the production of tear film and moisture. To minimize the risk of dry eyes after laser eye surgery, you should follow all instructions from your doctor. This includes, among other things, the regular use of special eye drops to moisten the eyes.

Over- or under-correction of myopia

During laser eye surgery, there is a possibility of over- or under-correction of myopia. This means that the eye does not have the desired visual performance after the procedure. The precise adjustment of the diopter number is crucial for an optimal result. A correction that is too strong or too weak can lead to visual impairment and make further treatment necessary. Individual factors such as the condition of the cornea and possible concomitant diseases must be taken into account in order to carry out a precise correction.

Before the procedure, a thorough examination of the eye is carried out to weigh up possible risks. If, despite all precautions, an over- or under-correction occurs, it is possible to adjust it afterwards.

Infections and inflammations after the procedure

After laser eye surgery, there is a risk of infection and inflammation. Although these complications are rare, we would like to mention them here. The procedure can cause small wounds on the cornea that can become a target for bacteria or viruses. It is therefore crucial to strictly adhere to hygiene regulations after the procedure and to avoid getting irritants in your eyes.

To minimize the risk of infection and inflammation, it is important to follow all aftercare instructions recommended by your eye doctor. This includes, among other things, regularly using antibiotic and anti-inflammatory eye drops. These help to kill potential germs and prevent inflammation. It is also advisable to avoid certain activities during the healing phase.

For example, you should avoid going to swimming pools or saunas for the first few weeks after the procedure to avoid possible contamination with germs. It is also important to wash your hands frequently and thoroughly with soap throughout the healing period and not to rub your eyes or touch them excessively. This will reduce the risk of transmitting bacteria or viruses.

Night glare and halos around light sources

Another risk is night glare and the appearance of halos (light effects) around light sources. After eye correction, the eye may become more sensitive to bright light and glare may occur. This can be particularly annoying during nighttime activities such as driving or looking at screens. The cause of this sensitivity to glare and halos lies in changes to the cornea after laser eye treatment. Laser treatment aims to correct the curvature of the cornea to enable clear visionHowever, this can cause irregularities that can lead to the incident light no longer being refracted evenly.

Corneal injury during the procedure

Laser eye correction requires precise manipulation of the cornea to achieve the desired result, but there is a risk of injury to the delicate cornea. The cornea is a transparent layer at the front of the eye and plays a crucial role in our vision. During the procedure, the outermost layer of the cornea is removed to correct the underlying layer and improve the refraction of light. Accidental or inadequately controlled injury to the cornea can lead to complications. This can negatively affect the outcome of the treatment.

One thorough preliminary investigation and open communication with an ophthalmologist can help you make the right decision for your eyesight and weigh up possible risks. Let the laser eye center PD Dr. med. Andreas Frings and team advise you. We will be happy to take the time for you.

// Augenlaserzentrum Franken

Tips for minimising the risks of laser eye treatment

Choose Choose an experienced and qualified ophthalmologist who specializes in laser eye treatments. Find out about their experience and reputation.

Let You will undergo a thorough pre-optic examination to ensure that your eyes are suitable for treatment. The doctor will check your diopter number as well as other factors such as corneal density and retinal health.

Discuss Discuss the different options for correcting your myopia with your doctor. There are different procedures such as Lasik, Femto-Lasik, Trans-PRK, IOL (intraocular lenses) or ICL (implantable contact lenses). Your doctor can help you choose the most suitable procedure for your individual needs.

Follow Carefully follow your doctor's instructions before and after treatment. This may include wearing sunglasses/goggles after the procedure or taking prescribed eye drops/medications to prevent infection.

Take You will have regular follow-up examinations to ensure that your eyes are healing properly and that no complications arise.

Avoid During your recovery period, avoid activities such as swimming or sauna visits that could increase the risk of infection.

Protect Protect your eyes from sunlight and bright light by wearing sunglasses. This can help reduce glare and halos around light sources.

Inform Find out about possible risks and side effects in advance in order to have realistic expectations of the treatment.